Get ready for some seriously addictive Fried Calamari! Imagine tender calamari rings coated in a crispy, seasoned batter, fried to golden perfection. This appetizer is perfect for any gathering or a fun treat at home. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist these crispy delights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy and Tender: Perfectly fried calamari with a crunchy exterior and tender interior.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a breeze.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at parties or as a delicious appetizer.
  • Versatile: Pairs well with various dipping sauces and lemon wedges.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Fried Calamari:

  • Calamari Rings: The star of the dish, providing a tender and slightly chewy texture.
  • Whole Milk: Used to tenderize the calamari and help the batter adhere.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a touch of acidity and tenderizes the calamari.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the batter.
  • Cornstarch: Adds crispiness to the batter.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • Dried Dill: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
  • Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and color.
  • Pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
  • Vegetable Oil: Used for frying, providing a neutral flavor.
  • Lemon Wedges: For serving, adding a burst of citrus.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Fried Calamari

Step 1: Prepare the Calamari

Thaw frozen calamari rings if necessary. Pat them dry and place them in a bowl. Pour milk and lemon juice over the calamari and stir to coat evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, dried dill, paprika, and pepper. Remove the calamari from the milk mixture, letting excess liquid drip off, and toss them in the flour mixture.

Step 3: Fry the Calamari

Place the breaded calamari on a plate. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the calamari in the hot oil and fry for about 3 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

Place the fried calamari on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Work in batches until all the calamari is finished. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Pat Calamari Dry: Ensure the calamari is thoroughly dried to prevent soggy batter.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
  • Use Hot Oil: Hot oil ensures crispy calamari.
  • Serve Immediately: Fried calamari is best served hot and crispy.

How to Serve Fried Calamari

  • With Lemon Wedges: A classic pairing for a burst of citrus.
  • With Marinara Sauce: A tangy and flavorful dipping option.
  • With Aioli: A creamy and garlicky dipping sauce.
  • With Sweet Chili Sauce: A sweet and spicy dipping option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover fried calamari in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make the calamari soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use squid tubes instead of calamari rings?

  • Yes, you can use squid tubes and cut them into rings. You can also use a mix with tentacles.

2. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

  • Yes, you can use other neutral oils like canola or peanut oil.

3. Can I bake the calamari instead of frying?

  • While frying provides the best texture, you can bake the calamari for a healthier option, but it won’t be as crispy.

4. How do I prevent the batter from falling off?

  • Make sure the calamari is dry and the oil is hot. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

Enjoy this crispy and delicious Fried Calamari Recipe!

Print
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Fried Calamari Recipe

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  • Author: Stacy Corbo
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
Print Recipe

Description

This Fried Calamari recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown calamari rings that are perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. Tender calamari is soaked in a milk and lemon mixture, then coated in a seasoned flour blend and fried to perfection. Served with fresh lemon wedges, this dish is a classic seafood favorite that’s easy to make at home.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound calamari rings (or squid tubes cut into rings)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare Calamari:

    1. Thaw the calamari rings if frozen. Pat them dry and place them in a bowl.

  2. Milk Soak:

    1. Pour the whole milk and lemon juice over the calamari rings. Stir to combine and coat the rings evenly.

  3. Prepare Flour Mixture:

    1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, dried dill, paprika, and pepper.

  4. Bread Calamari:

    1. Remove the calamari rings from the milk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
    2. Toss the calamari rings in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
    3. Place the breaded calamari rings onto a plate or sheet pan.

  5. Prepare for Frying:

    1. Prepare a second plate or sheet pan by lining it with paper towels.

  6. Fry Calamari:

    1. Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    2. When the oil is hot, carefully place the battered calamari into the hot oil.
    3. Fry for about 3 minutes, or until golden brown.

  7. Drain and Serve:

    1. When the calamari is finished frying, place it onto the paper towel-lined plate or sheet pan to drain excess oil.
    2. Work in batches until all the calamari is finished.
    3. Serve fresh with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • If using squid tubes, cut them into rings about ½-inch thick.
  • You can use a mix of calamari rings and tentacles.
  • Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the calamari to prevent soggy breading.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet while frying to maintain the oil temperature.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture.
  • You can serve with marinara sauce, aioli, or other dipping sauces.
  • For added spice, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Serving
  • Calories: 350kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
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Hi, I’m Stacy Corbo! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

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