Grilled Calamari

Directions

1. 1
   Clean calamari according to the directions on page 40, leaving the skin on if you like (as I do).
2. 2
   Toss the cleaned calamari bodies and tentacles, 1/4 cup olive oil, the garlic, thyme, salt, and crushed red pepper together in a bowl until the calamari are coated.
3. 3
   Cover the bowl, and marinate in refrigerator for 1 hour or up to overnight.
4. 4
   Prepare a charcoal grill well ahead, so you have hot, glowing coals.
5. 5
   Or heat a wide cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until a drop of water bounces and sizzles.
6. 6
   Lay the squid onto the grill or in the skillet.
7. 7
   Set a heavy skillet on top of the calamari to weight them down so as much of them as possible makes contact with the hot grill or skillet.
8. 8
   This makes it easier for the calamari to cook evenly and brown well.
9. 9
   Cook, turning once, until golden on both sides, about 6 minutes.
10. 10
    Transfer to a warm platter and drizzle with additional extra-virgin olive oil, if you like.
11. 11
    Sprinkle with chopped Italian parsley and serve immediately.