A Taste of Ponta Delgada: Grilled Squid on Hummus with Garbanzo Sauce

When we’re in the Azores for our culinary experience, we always make sure there’s plenty of free time to explore. And when our group finds themselves wandering the charming streets of Ponta Delgada, there’s one spot we always recommend for lunch—our absolute favorite restaurant in town.

Every time I’m there, I make sure to order this dish: Grilled Squid on Hummus with Garbanzo Sauce. Simple, fresh, and full of the bold flavors of the Azores, it perfectly captures the island’s essence. Now, I’m bringing it to you so you can recreate it at home. Enjoy!

Grilled Squid on Hummus with Garbanzo Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 medium squid, cleaned, spine removed

• Extra virgin olive oil for grilling

• ½ cup hummus

• 2 tablespoons garbanzo beans

• Juice from ½ a lemon

• 1 tablespoon vinaigrette

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Directions:

• Separate the squid bodies from the tentacles.

• Heat the grill and brush it with olive oil.

• Grill the squid bodies and tentacles separately, cooking each side for about 30 seconds.

• Remove from heat, slice the tentacles in half, and keep the bodies whole.

• Spread hummus on a plate and top with the grilled squid.

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the squid and scatter garbanzo beans around the plate.

• Drizzle with vinaigrette and sprinkle with parsley.

Sauce for Fish

• ½ small onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 4 tablespoons Portuguese extra virgin olive oil

• 1 small sweet red pepper of the Azores

• 3 teaspoons red wine vinegar

• Fresh parsley, chopped (to sprinkle over the fish)

If you’re craving more of the authentic flavors of the Azores, why not experience them firsthand? Join us for our culinary adventure from September 20–27, where we’ll cook with local chefs, visit the best restaurants, and immerse ourselves in the island’s vibrant food culture.

Book your spot and taste the Azores for yourself!