Ask your fishmonger when the squid arrived to ensure maximum freshness.
If you tell me what kind of you're planning to make (e.g., fried, grilled, pasta), I can give you more specific tips on what size and type of squid to look for. How to Choose Fresh Squid: Expert Tips for Quality Seafood how to buy squid
A gentle touch is key. The meat should be firm and elastic, immediately bouncing back when pressed. The tentacles should still be firmly attached to the body; if they are falling off or appear mushy, the squid is past its prime. A slight, thin layer of slime is natural, but excessive, thick, or sticky mucus is a red flag. Ask your fishmonger when the squid arrived to
Larger squid can be tougher and are often better suited for stuffing and slow cooking or braising to break down the firm texture. The meat should be firm and elastic, immediately