Indulge your taste buds in the rich, velvety goodness of creamy squid ink pasta dishes! This type of pasta is a game-changer for any seafood lover. Not only does it add a mysterious and sophisticated touch to your meals, but its unique flavor also pairs perfectly with an array of ingredients. From classic seafood combinations to bold and zesty flavors, we’ve curated 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of squid ink pasta.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring various squid ink pasta dishes that are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these recipes will guide you through the preparation process with ease. So, get ready to dive into the dark, inky depths of flavor and discover new favorite dishes!
Squid Ink Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful dish featuring squid ink spaghetti, succulent garlic butter shrimp, and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in white wine (if using) and reserve.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, adjusting seasoning as needed.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Squid Ink Pasta with Crab Meat
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent and flavorful recipe featuring squid ink spaghetti, succulent crab meat, and a rich creamy sauce. This dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook squid ink spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in crab meat, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the crab meat mixture. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Squid Ink Linguine with Lemon and Chili
Squid Ink Linguine with Lemon and Chili: A bold and zesty pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of squid ink linguine with a tangy and spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink linguine
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the crushed red chilies or chili flakes and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
3. Add the reserved pasta cooking liquid to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to combine with the lemon-chili sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Squid Ink Pasta
This recipe combines the tender sweetness of seared scallops with the dramatic darkness of squid ink pasta, creating a romantic and flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 8 oz squid ink pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook squid ink pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Season scallops with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
7. Toss cooked pasta with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve scallops on top of pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squid Ink Spaghetti with Mussels and White Wine Sauce
This dish is a masterclass in simplicity, allowing the rich flavors of squid ink pasta, succulent mussels, and white wine to shine. Pair it with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 2 lbs mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook squid ink spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mussels, white wine, chicken broth, and butter. Cover skillet and cook until mussels open, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, mussel mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Squid Ink Pasta with Calamari and Cherry Tomatoes
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the mysterious darkness of squid ink with the tender sweetness of calamari and cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink pasta
– 1 lb fresh calamari, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the calamari pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
5. Toss the cooked pasta with the calamari and tomato mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Squid Ink Fettuccine with Lobster and Cream Sauce
This decadent pasta dish combines the rich flavors of squid ink fettuccine, succulent lobster meat, and a velvety cream sauce. Perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink fettuccine
– 1 lb lobster meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add lobster meat and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine with the lobster cream sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Squid Ink Pasta with Chorizo and Clams
This vibrant pasta dish combines the bold flavors of chorizo and clams with the rich, velvety texture of squid ink spaghetti. Perfect for a dramatic dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of clams, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Red pepper flakes (optional), for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook the squid ink spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the clams and chopped parsley to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the chorizo mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Grilled Octopus and Aioli
This decadent dish combines the rich flavors of squid ink pasta, grilled octopus, and creamy aioli for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz squid ink pasta
– 1 lb octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup aioli
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill octopus for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add grilled octopus to the skillet and toss with garlic and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve squid ink pasta with grilled octopus, aioli, and chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Truffle Oil Squid Ink Pasta with Wild Mushrooms
Elevate your pasta game with this luxurious and flavorful dish, featuring the deep richness of squid ink pasta, the earthiness of wild mushrooms, and the decadence of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz squid ink pasta
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the truffle oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the mushroom mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of reserved pasta water.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Squid Ink Tagliatelle with Pancetta and Peas
This recipe combines the rich flavors of squid ink pasta with the savory goodness of pancetta and sweet peas, creating a truly decadent dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink tagliatelle
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink tagliatelle according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the peas to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer until almost completely reduced, about 2 minutes.
6. Combine the cooked pasta, pancetta, and pea mixture in a large bowl. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlicky Squid Ink Pasta with Anchovies and Breadcrumbs
This recipe combines the bold flavors of squid ink pasta with the savory notes of anchovies and crunchy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low. Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add the chopped anchovies to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlicky sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top the pasta with panko breadcrumbs and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Saffron Cream and Prawns
This recipe combines the richness of squid ink pasta with the subtle earthiness of saffron and the sweetness of prawns, creating a sophisticated yet approachable dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) squid ink pasta
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tsp (5g) saffron threads, soaked in 1 tbsp (15ml) hot water
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter
– 1 lb (450g) prawns, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the soaked saffron threads and hot water mixture. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the cream mixture cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
4. Add the prawns to the saucepan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the saffron cream and prawns. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Squid Ink Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
This recipe combines the rich flavor of squid ink pasta with the sweetness of burst cherry tomatoes and the brightness of fresh basil, creating a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz black squid ink pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to burst and release their juices.
4. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and tomato mixture. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Uni and Sea Urchin Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this luxurious recipe featuring the rich flavors of squid ink, sea urchin, and uni. This decadent dish is perfect for a special occasion or a night in with friends.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink pasta
– 1/2 cup sea urchin roe (such as Santa Barbara)
– 1/4 cup uni paste
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sea urchin roe and uni paste to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is heated through.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and sea urchin sauce in a large bowl. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squid Ink Spaghetti with Bottarga and Lemon Zest
This recipe combines the rich flavor of squid ink spaghetti with the salty, nutty taste of bottarga (cured grey mullet roe) and a burst of citrus from lemon zest. The result is a sophisticated and unique pasta dish perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 1/4 cup bottarga, thinly sliced
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Drain the cooked spaghetti and toss with the lemon-garlic mixture.
4. Top the spaghetti with sliced bottarga and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful dish, combining the richness of smoked salmon with the subtle sweetness of squid ink pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink spaghetti
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup dill cream (see note)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flaked smoked salmon and cook for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
3. Stir in the dill cream and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the cooked spaghetti and salmon mixture. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squid Ink Pasta with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful recipe, featuring the deep, mysterious hue of squid ink pasta paired with the pungency of roasted garlic and the salty sweetness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink pasta
– 4-6 cloves garlic
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic clove, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, cooked pasta, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until the cheese is melted and well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of squid ink pasta with these 18 delectable recipes. From classic combinations like garlic butter shrimp and crab meat to bold pairings like chorizo and clams, there’s something for every seafood lover. Discover how to elevate your pasta dishes with ingredients like truffle oil, saffron cream, and uni sauce. Whether you prefer spicy options or light and refreshing flavors, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
