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Fresh Cuttlefish
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Nutri-ScoreA

Fresh Cuttlefish

Sepia officinalis

Clinical Encyclopedia

Fresh cuttlefish is a highly nutritious seafood option, rich in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. It is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Also known as:
Cuttlefish (Common)Sepia (Culinary)
Scientific NameSepia officinalis
Region of OriginMediterranean Sea

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories92 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total18.0g
Protein
16g(89%)
Fats
1g(6%)
Carbohydrates
1g(6%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B121 µg (42%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium44 µg (80%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
Low in calories and fat, making it suitable for weight management.
Rich in selenium, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Contains vitamin B12, essential for nerve function and the production of DNA.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to shellfish.
!High levels of mercury in some seafood can pose health risks if consumed excessively.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed grilled, steamed, or sautéed to preserve its delicate flavor and texture. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cuttlefish that is firm to the touch, has a clean ocean smell, and shiny skin. Avoid any that appear slimy or have a strong fishy odor.

How to Store

Keep fresh cuttlefish in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

Myths vs Realities

MythCuttlefish and squid are the same.
RealityWhile they are related, cuttlefish and squid are different species with distinct characteristics.
MythCuttlefish ink is toxic.
RealityCuttlefish ink is safe to eat and is often used in culinary dishes for flavor and color.
MythEating cuttlefish can cause allergies in everyone.
RealityOnly individuals with shellfish allergies are at risk of allergic reactions from eating cuttlefish.

Healthy Recipes

Grilled Cuttlefish Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

A refreshing salad featuring tender grilled cuttlefish, mixed greens, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh cuttlefish, cleaned and sliced
  • 150g mixed salad greens
  • 1 orange, juiced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
  3. 3. Grill the cuttlefish for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through, then toss with salad greens and drizzle with vinaigrette before serving.

Cuttlefish Stir-Fry with Vegetables

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring fresh cuttlefish and colorful vegetables, packed with flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh cuttlefish, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add sliced bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Stir in the cuttlefish and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cuttlefish is opaque. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Cuttlefish and Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious bowl combining protein-rich quinoa and grilled cuttlefish, topped with a medley of fresh vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 200g fresh cuttlefish, cleaned and grilled
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and set aside.
  2. 2. Grill the cuttlefish until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  3. 3. In a bowl, layer quinoa, diced cucumber, avocado, and top with grilled cuttlefish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Cuttlefish Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Delicious tacos filled with grilled cuttlefish and topped with a fresh avocado salsa, perfect for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh cuttlefish, sliced
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Grill the cuttlefish for 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix avocado, tomato, lime juice, and cilantro to create the salsa.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by placing cuttlefish in tortillas and topping with avocado salsa before serving.

Cuttlefish and Spinach Risotto

A creamy risotto made with fresh cuttlefish and spinach, offering a comforting yet healthy meal option.

Ingredients
  • 200g fresh cuttlefish, diced
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion until translucent, then add Arborio rice and stir for 1-2 minutes.
  2. 2. Gradually add vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed.
  3. 3. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add diced cuttlefish and spinach, cooking until the cuttlefish is opaque and spinach is wilted. Stir in Parmesan cheese before serving.

Cuttlefish Ceviche with Mango

A vibrant ceviche made with fresh cuttlefish and sweet mango, marinated in lime juice for a refreshing appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh cuttlefish, cleaned and diced
  • 1 mango, diced
  • 1 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 chili pepper, minced
  • Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced cuttlefish, mango, red onion, lime juice, and chili pepper.
  2. 2. Let the mixture marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve chilled, garnished with cilantro.

Stuffed Cuttlefish with Brown Rice and Herbs

Tender cuttlefish stuffed with a flavorful mixture of brown rice and fresh herbs, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 whole fresh cuttlefish, cleaned
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup basil, chopped
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked brown rice, parsley, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff each cuttlefish with the rice mixture, place in a baking dish, and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.

Cuttlefish Soup with Ginger and Lemongrass

A fragrant and light soup featuring cuttlefish, ginger, and lemongrass, perfect for a healthy starter.

Ingredients
  • 200g fresh cuttlefish, sliced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed
  • 2 slices ginger
  • 1 chili pepper, sliced
  • Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil and add lemongrass, ginger, and chili.
  2. 2. Simmer for 10 minutes to infuse flavors, then add sliced cuttlefish and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.

Baked Cuttlefish with Tomato and Olives

A Mediterranean-inspired dish of baked cuttlefish with tomatoes and olives, offering a burst of flavor and health benefits.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh cuttlefish, cleaned
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup black olives, pitted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. 2. In a baking dish, combine cuttlefish, cherry tomatoes, olives, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cuttlefish is cooked through and the tomatoes are blistered.

Cuttlefish and Vegetable Skewers

Colorful skewers of marinated cuttlefish and seasonal vegetables, grilled for a healthy and fun meal.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh cuttlefish, cut into chunks
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into squares
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add cuttlefish and vegetables, marinating for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Thread cuttlefish and vegetables onto skewers.
  3. 3. Grill skewers for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through and slightly charred.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is cuttlefish?

Cuttlefish are marine animals related to squids and octopuses, known for their unique internal shell and ability to change color.

How do you cook fresh cuttlefish?

Fresh cuttlefish can be grilled, sautéed, or added to soups and stews. It's important not to overcook it to avoid toughness.

Is cuttlefish healthy to eat?

Yes, cuttlefish is low in calories and high in protein, making it a healthy seafood choice.

Can you eat cuttlefish raw?

Yes, fresh cuttlefish can be eaten raw in dishes like sashimi, but ensure it is sourced from a reputable supplier.

What is the difference between cuttlefish and squid?

Cuttlefish have a broader body and a unique internal shell called a cuttlebone, while squid have a more elongated shape.

How should I store fresh cuttlefish?

Store fresh cuttlefish in the refrigerator and consume it within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

What are the nutritional benefits of cuttlefish?

Cuttlefish is rich in protein, low in fat, and provides essential vitamins and minerals, including B12 and selenium.

Is cuttlefish sustainable?

Sustainability varies by fishing practices; check for certifications to ensure you are purchasing sustainably sourced cuttlefish.