Squid, Chickpea & Chorizo Salad

Instructions

1. 1

   Char the peppers

   3 min

   Begin by grilling the red peppers whole over high heat until their skins are completely blackened and blistered. This process should take about 10-15 minutes, and you'll know they're ready when they emit a smoky aroma and the skin is visibly charred. After grilling, place the peppers into a bowl and cover it with a plate to trap the steam, which will make peeling easier. Allow them to cool for approximately 10 minutes. Once they are cool enough to handle, carefully peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds, and slice them into thin strips.

2. 2

   Mix the base

   3 min

   In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the freshly sliced grilled peppers with the drained chickpeas from the cans - rinsing them under cold water beforehand is crucial for removing excess sodium. Add in the finely chopped parsley, diced red chilli for a touch of heat, and minced garlic to enhance the flavor. Mix these ingredients gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the chickpeas are well-distributed throughout the mixture. This step can be done ahead of time and set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. 3

   Cook the squid and chorizo

   3 min

   Heat a large frying pan over high heat until it reaches a smoking point, which should take 2-3 minutes. Once hot, add a splash of olive oil, swirling it around to coat the pan. Quickly add the squid and stir-fry for about 30 seconds; you want the squid to turn opaque and slightly firm. Then, incorporate the diced chorizo into the pan, cooking for an additional 30 seconds. The chorizo will release its flavorful oils, enhancing the dish. Be cautious not to overcook the squid, as it can become rubbery.

4. 4

   Combine the ingredients

   1 min

   Carefully transfer the cooked squid and chorizo mixture into the bowl containing the pepper mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preference. Next, drizzle in the fresh juice and zest of the lemon, ensuring a bright and zesty flavor permeates the dish. Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well combined, making sure not to break the squid pieces. Serve the salad on a large platter, allowing everyone to enjoy this vibrant dish.

FAQ