18 Delicious Japanese Grilled Squid Recipes for Seafood Lovers

Dive into the savory world of Japanese cuisine with our roundup of 18 Delicious Japanese Grilled Squid Recipes that promise to turn your kitchen into a seaside izakaya! Perfect for seafood lovers looking to spice up their dinner routine, these recipes range from quick weeknight meals to show-stopping dishes for your next gathering. Get ready to impress your taste buds and keep everyone coming back for more!

Grilled Squid with Miso Glaze

Grilled Squid with Miso Glaze is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory with a smoky char.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh squid, cleaned and tentacles separated
• 2 tbsp white miso paste
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp white miso paste, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp grated ginger until smooth.
3. Brush the squid and tentacles with 1 tbsp vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until you see nice grill marks and the squid is just opaque.
5. Brush the miso glaze onto the squid during the last minute of grilling, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
6. Remove from the grill and garnish with 1 tbsp sesame seeds and 2 thinly sliced green onions before serving.

The miso glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a sticky, flavorful coating that complements the tender squid perfectly.

Tip: For extra tenderness, you can briefly marinate the squid in the glaze for up to 30 minutes before grilling.

Spicy Grilled Squid with Chili Sauce

Get ready to fire up the grill for this Spicy Grilled Squid with Chili Sauce, a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and a kick of heat that’s perfectly balanced by a sweet and tangy sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh squid, cleaned and scored
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chili sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the chili sauce, honey, lime juice, and red pepper flakes to make the sauce. Set aside.
3. Toss the squid with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic until evenly coated.
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, or until opaque and slightly charred.
5. Brush the squid with the chili sauce during the last minute of grilling, then remove from heat.
6. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping.

The magic of this recipe lies in the quick grilling time that keeps the squid tender, while the chili sauce caramelizes slightly for a sticky, flavorful glaze.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, try using a charcoal grill or adding a smoker box to your gas grill.

Garlic Butter Grilled Squid

Get ready to impress with this Garlic Butter Grilled Squid, a dish that’s as flavorful as it is simple to prepare, perfect for your next backyard BBQ or cozy indoor dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cleaned squid, tubes and tentacles
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together 4 tbsp melted butter, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
3. Pat the squid dry with paper towels, then brush both sides generously with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, just until opaque and lightly charred. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
5. Remove from the grill and sprinkle with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this recipe lies in the quick grilling time, which locks in the squid’s natural sweetness while infusing it with rich garlic butter flavors. It’s a seafood lover’s dream come true.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture before grilling.

Grilled Squid Skewers with Teriyaki Sauce

These Grilled Squid Skewers with Teriyaki Sauce are a quick, flavorful way to bring a taste of the sea to your backyard barbecue.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cleaned squid, bodies and tentacles
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp mirin
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp mirin, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 tsp grated ginger. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes until slightly thickened to make the teriyaki sauce. Set aside.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Thread the squid onto skewers, alternating between bodies and tentacles.
3. Brush the skewers with 1 tbsp vegetable oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, just until the squid is opaque and lightly charred.
4. Brush the skewers generously with the teriyaki sauce during the last minute of grilling, then remove from heat.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately with extra teriyaki sauce on the side.

The quick grilling time keeps the squid tender, while the homemade teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory glaze that’s irresistibly sticky.

Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Soy Sauce and Ginger Grilled Squid

Grilled squid gets a delicious twist with a savory soy sauce and ginger marinade, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cleaned squid, tubes and tentacles
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp sesame oil, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes.
2. Add the squid to the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the squid from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and slightly charred.
5. Garnish with 2 thinly sliced green onions before serving.

The combination of sweet honey and spicy ginger creates a bold flavor that perfectly complements the tender squid. Tip: For extra tenderness, don’t overcook the squid—just a few minutes on each side is all it needs.

Grilled Squid with Lemon and Herb Marinade

Grilled squid gets a bright lift from a zesty lemon and herb marinade, making it a perfect light yet flavorful dish for your summer grilling adventures.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cleaned squid, tubes and tentacles
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp chopped parsley, 1 tsp chopped thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
2. Add the squid to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Thread the squid onto skewers for easier grilling.
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and lightly charred. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender.

The quick grilling time locks in the squid’s natural sweetness, while the marinade adds a vibrant, herby tang that’s irresistibly fresh.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, serve with additional lemon wedges on the side.

Sweet and Sour Grilled Squid

Get ready to fire up the grill for this Sweet and Sour Grilled Squid, a dish that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors with a smoky char.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cleaned squid, tubes and tentacles
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp grated ginger, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes to make the marinade.
2. Add the squid to the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the squid onto skewers for easier grilling.
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until slightly charred and opaque.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

The quick grilling time keeps the squid tender, while the marinade caramelizes into a sticky, flavorful glaze that’s irresistibly good.

Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Grilled Squid with Wasabi Mayo

Grilled Squid with Wasabi Mayo brings a delightful kick to your seafood game, combining tender squid with a spicy, creamy sauce that’s irresistibly good.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cleaned squid, tubes and tentacles
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp wasabi paste
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a bowl, toss the squid with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and lightly charred.
4. While the squid grills, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp wasabi paste, and 1 tsp lemon juice in a small bowl to make the wasabi mayo.
5. Serve the grilled squid hot, drizzled with the wasabi mayo and sprinkled with 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives.

The contrast between the smoky grilled squid and the fiery wasabi mayo creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress. Perfect for when you’re craving something a little adventurous.

Tip: For extra tender squid, don’t overcook it—just a few minutes on the grill is all it needs.

Grilled Squid Stuffed with Rice and Vegetables

Grilled squid stuffed with rice and vegetables is a showstopper dish that’s surprisingly simple to make, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 medium squid, cleaned (tubes and tentacles)
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a bowl, mix the cooked white rice, diced bell peppers, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Gently stuff each squid tube with the rice mixture, being careful not to overfill. Secure the open end with a toothpick.
4. Brush the stuffed squid and tentacles with olive oil and place them on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the squid is opaque and slightly charred.
5. Remove from the grill, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

The smoky flavor from the grill pairs perfectly with the tender squid and the savory rice stuffing, making this dish a memorable meal for any seafood lover.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, marinate the squid in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for 30 minutes before stuffing and grilling.

Grilled Squid with Sesame Oil and Scallions

Grilled squid gets a flavorful twist with a drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of fresh scallions, making it a perfect quick and elegant dish for any seafood lover.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cleaned squid, tubes and tentacles
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp sesame oil, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tsp grated ginger to make the marinade.
3. Place the squid in a large bowl and pour the marinade over it, tossing to coat evenly. Let it marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature.
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly charred and just opaque.
5. Transfer the grilled squid to a serving plate and sprinkle with 2 thinly sliced scallions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds.

The combination of the smoky grilled squid with the nutty sesame oil and fresh scallions creates a dish that’s bursting with umami and texture.

Tip: For extra tenderness, score the squid tubes in a crosshatch pattern before marinating.

Grilled Squid with Yuzu Kosho Marinade

Grilled squid gets a vibrant kick from yuzu kosho, a Japanese citrus-chili paste, making this dish a standout for your next barbecue.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cleaned squid, tubes and tentacles
• 2 tbsp yuzu kosho paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp yuzu kosho paste, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp honey, 1 clove minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
2. Add the squid to the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let it sit for 15 minutes at room temperature.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly charred and opaque.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional yuzu kosho if desired.

The yuzu kosho not only tenderizes the squid but also infuses it with a bold, citrusy heat that’s unforgettable.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, try grilling over charcoal instead of gas.

Grilled Squid with Shiso Leaves

Grilled squid gets a refreshing twist with the addition of shiso leaves, offering a perfect balance of smoky and herbal flavors that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh squid, cleaned and scored
• 10 shiso leaves, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a bowl, toss the squid with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the edges curl and the flesh turns opaque.
4. Remove from the grill and immediately sprinkle with the sliced shiso leaves.
5. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

The shiso leaves add a unique, peppery freshness that elevates the grilled squid beyond the usual lemon and garlic pairing.

Tip: For extra flavor, let the squid marinate in the seasoning mix for 15 minutes before grilling.

Grilled Squid with Ponzu Sauce

Grilled squid with ponzu sauce is a light, flavorful dish that brings a taste of the sea to your table with a zesty Japanese twist.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh squid, cleaned and tentacles separated
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup ponzu sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 cup ponzu sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes.
3. Brush the squid and tentacles with half of the ponzu mixture.
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and slightly charred.
5. Transfer the squid to a serving plate, drizzle with the remaining ponzu mixture, and garnish with 2 thinly sliced green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds.

The quick grilling keeps the squid tender, while the ponzu sauce adds a bright, tangy contrast that’s irresistibly good.

Tip: For extra flavor, let the squid marinate in the ponzu mixture for 15 minutes before grilling.

Grilled Squid with Sweet Soy Glaze

Grilled Squid with Sweet Soy Glaze is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make, offering a perfect balance of smoky and sweet flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh squid, cleaned and tentacles separated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 1 clove minced garlic to make the glaze.
3. Brush 1 pound squid and tentacles with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and place on the grill. Cook for 2 minutes per side.
4. Brush the squid with the glaze and grill for an additional 1 minute per side, until the glaze is sticky and the squid is just cooked through.
5. Transfer to a serving plate, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sesame seeds and 2 thinly sliced green onions.

The magic of this dish lies in the quick grilling time that keeps the squid tender, paired with a glaze that caramelizes into a glossy, flavor-packed coating.

Tip: For extra tenderness, soak the squid in milk for 30 minutes before grilling—it’s a game-changer!

Grilled Squid with Garlic and Lime

Grilled squid with garlic and lime is a light, zesty dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your backyard grill, perfect for those warm summer evenings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh squid, cleaned and tentacles separated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
3. Toss the squid and tentacles in the garlic-lime marinade until evenly coated. Let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and slightly charred.
5. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.

The quick grilling time keeps the squid tender, while the garlic and lime marinade infuses it with a bright, aromatic flavor that’s irresistibly fresh.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Grilled Squid with Black Pepper Sauce

Grilled squid gets a bold upgrade with this aromatic black pepper sauce, perfect for turning a simple seafood dish into a standout meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh squid, cleaned and scored
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine olive oil, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add soy sauce, sugar, salt, and water to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in butter until melted. Set the black pepper sauce aside.
5. Grill the scored squid for 2 minutes on each side, or until opaque and lightly charred.
6. Transfer the grilled squid to a serving plate and drizzle generously with the black pepper sauce.

The combination of tender, smoky squid with the spicy, buttery black pepper sauce creates a dish that’s both elegant and packed with flavor. Perfect for impressing guests at your next barbecue.

Tip: Scoring the squid before grilling not only helps it cook evenly but also allows the sauce to penetrate deeper for more flavor.

Grilled Squid with Mango Salsa

Grilled squid gets a sweet and tangy upgrade with this vibrant mango salsa, perfect for a summer evening by the grill.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cleaned squid, tubes and tentacles
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a bowl, toss the squid with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and lightly charred. Remove from grill and set aside.
4. In another bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mix well to blend the flavors.
5. Serve the grilled squid topped with the mango salsa.

The contrast between the smoky squid and the fresh, fruity salsa brings a burst of flavor that’s unexpectedly delightful.

Tip: For extra tender squid, don’t overcook—just a few minutes on each side is all it needs.

Grilled Squid with Avocado and Cucumber Salad

Grilled squid gets a fresh and crunchy companion in this vibrant avocado and cucumber salad, perfect for a light summer meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cleaned squid, tubes and tentacles
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1/2 tsp salt, divided
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 large avocado, diced
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a bowl, toss the squid with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into rings.
4. In another bowl, combine the avocado, cucumber, remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, remaining 1/4 tsp salt, lime juice, and cilantro. Gently toss to mix.
5. Serve the grilled squid over the avocado and cucumber salad.

The contrast between the smoky squid and the crisp, creamy salad brings a delightful balance of textures and flavors to your plate.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the squid before grilling.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 delicious Japanese grilled squid recipes inspires your next seafood adventure! Each dish offers a unique taste of Japan’s rich culinary tradition, perfect for home cooks looking to explore new flavors. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for fellow seafood lovers. Happy cooking!