Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fried calamari is fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The contrast between the crunchy coating and the tender squid inside makes every bite irresistible. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be ready in under 30 minutes and doesn’t require any complicated ingredients. Whether served as a starter, a snack, or even as part of a seafood platter, fried calamari delivers bold taste with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Calamari (squid tubes and tentacles), cleaned and sliced into rings
All-purpose flour
Cornmeal (optional for extra crunch)
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika or cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Eggs
Milk or buttermilk
Vegetable oil, for frying
Lemon wedges, for serving
Dipping sauce (e.g., marinara, garlic aioli, or tartar sauce)

Directions

Rinse and pat dry the calamari pieces thoroughly with paper towels.
In one bowl, whisk together eggs and milk (or buttermilk).
In another bowl, combine flour, cornmeal (if using), salt, pepper, and optional spices.
Dip each calamari ring into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture until well coated.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the calamari in small batches for about 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove and drain on paper towels. Season lightly with salt while hot.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 25–30 minutes total, including prep and frying time.

Variations

Spicy Fried Calamari: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the flour for heat.
Buttermilk Soak: Soaking calamari in buttermilk for 30 minutes before coating helps tenderize the squid and adds flavor.
Panko Crust: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating.
Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
Air-Fried: Use an air fryer to reduce oil and still get a crispy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Fried calamari is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers:

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid stacking to keep the coating from getting soggy.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5–7 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the calamari rubbery.

FAQs

Why does calamari turn rubbery?

Overcooking is the main reason calamari becomes rubbery. Fry it quickly at high heat for just 1–2 minutes to keep it tender.

Can I use frozen calamari?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before coating and frying to avoid excess moisture.

What oil is best for frying calamari?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.

Do I need to soak calamari before frying?

It’s optional, but soaking in buttermilk or milk can tenderize the squid and add flavor.

How do I clean fresh calamari?

Remove the head, innards, and cartilage from the body. Peel off the skin if desired, and rinse thoroughly before slicing into rings.

Can I make fried calamari in an air fryer?

Yes. Lightly coat the calamari with oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through.

What sauces pair well with fried calamari?

Classic choices include marinara, garlic aioli, tartar sauce, lemon-garlic butter, or a spicy mayo.

How can I make the coating crispier?

Adding a bit of cornmeal or panko breadcrumbs to the flour mixture enhances the crunch.

Is fried calamari healthy?

While delicious, fried calamari is not considered a health food due to the deep frying. For a lighter version, consider air frying or oven baking.

Can I prepare calamari ahead of time?

You can prep the squid and even coat it ahead, but for best results, fry it just before serving to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

Fried calamari is a quick and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. With its irresistible crispy coating and tender interior, it’s perfect for a party appetizer or a flavorful starter at home. Once you try making it yourself, you’ll see just how easy it is to bring this restaurant favorite to your own kitchen.

Fried Calamari

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Crispy, golden, and tender, fried calamari is a classic appetizer featuring lightly battered squid rings served with zesty dipping sauces. It’s quick to make and a hit at any gathering.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Rinse and pat dry the calamari pieces thoroughly with paper towels.
In one bowl, whisk together eggs and milk or buttermilk.
In another bowl, combine flour, cornmeal (if using), salt, pepper, and optional spices.
Dip each calamari ring into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture until well coated.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the calamari in small batches for about 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season lightly with salt while hot.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to keep oil temperature steady.
Soaking calamari in buttermilk before coating can tenderize it.
Use a thermometer to maintain proper oil temperature.
Panko or cornmeal can be used for extra crunch.
Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 280
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 190mg