Description

Fried Calamari is a crispy and flavorful seafood appetizer made with tender squid rings coated in seasoned flour and quickly fried until golden brown. Perfect for dipping in marinara or aioli, it’s a restaurant favorite you can easily recreate at home.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh or thawed squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
Lemon wedges, for serving
Marinara or dipping sauce (optional)

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Instructions

Rinse squid and pat dry thoroughly. Slice into rings if not pre-cut.
In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350–375°F (175–190°C).
Dredge squid rings in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Dry squid thoroughly before coating to ensure crispiness and avoid oil splatter.Use a thermometer to maintain proper frying temperature.Fried calamari is best served immediately.For added flavor, include dried herbs or chili flakes in the flour mixture.Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to retain crisp texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
Calories: 320
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 460mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 190mg