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I don’t know who needs to hear this, but fried calamari at home? It’s easier than you think and way cheaper than ordering out. When I want to bring that seafood restaurant energy to my own kitchen without dropping $20 on an appetizer, this recipe delivers every time. The calamari rings come out perfectly crispy and golden. Serve them hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd pleasing appetizer that tastes straight out of a restaurant.
If you love seafood, try some of my other amazing recipes:
Ingredients for fried calamari
- Calamari rings – The star of the show. Tender, meaty, and the perfect shape for frying. I like to buy frozen calamari rings for this. Frozen calamari rings can typically be found in the seafood section.
- Lemon – Adds brightness and helps tenderize the squid.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes and adds a slight tang, making the calamari juicy inside.
- Flour – Creates the base for a golden, crispy crust.
- Cornstarch – Helps give that light, airy crunch when fried.
- Salt – Brings out all the flavors.
- Paprika – Adds color and a subtle smoky note.
- Garlic powder – For a savory boost.
- Cayenne pepper (optional) – For a little kick if you like it spicy.
- Black pepper – Adds heat and complexity.
- Neutral oil for frying – Canola, vegetable, or peanut oil works great here for clean frying.
Commonly Asked Questions
Don’t overcook it, 2 to 3 minutes is all it needs. Once golden take out of the oil immediately. Soaking in buttermilk also helps keep it tender but don’t soak for too long.
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.
Yes, though the texture will be a little different. Spray with oil and air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Fried Calamari Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb calamari rings, thawed from frozen
- 1 lemon
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper, optional
- 1 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
- canola, vegetable or peanut oil for frying
Instructions
- Put the calamari in a bowl & squeeze the juice of one lemon over the squid. Add the buttermilk and mix together a bit to combine. Cover and refrigerate for an hour to tenderize.
- Heat enough oil over medium high heat, about 1 inch high in a large skillet.
- While the oil is heating, in a bowl combine the cornstarch, flour and seasonings.
- Shake off any excess buttermilk and coat the calamari with the flour & spice mix. Shake off any excess flour.
- Place the rings into the oil and fry for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown. Do this in batches if needed so the pan isn’t crowded.
- Drain and let cool on paper towels.
- Serve with lemon & marinara sauce. Thai Sweet Chili sauce works well too.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
