Fried Calamari

Tender squid rings and tentacles soaked in buttermilk, tossed in seasoned flour and fried crisp and golden in under two minutes. Served with marinara and lemon. Serves 4.

High-proteinNo added sugar

Contains: milk, shellfish, wheat. Based on the ingredients as written; check package labels, which can change.

  • Prep 15 min
  • Cook 10 min
  • Soak 30 min
  • Total 55 min
  • Yield 4 servings
  • Level Intermediate

Updated

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Crispy fried calamari rings and tentacles with marinara sauce and lemon wedges

Calamari fritti is the appetizer at every Italian-American restaurant, and it is easy at home. A short soak in buttermilk keeps the squid tender, and a light coating of flour and cornmeal fries up crisp and golden.

The secret is speed: squid needs only a minute or two in hot oil. Any longer and it turns rubbery.

Instructions

  1. Soak. Soak the squid in buttermilk in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  2. Heat the oil. Heat 2 inches of oil in a heavy pot to 375°F.
  3. Coat. Mix the flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper and paprika. Lift the squid from the buttermilk, let excess drip off, and toss in the flour mixture. Shake off the excess.
  4. Fry. Fry in small batches for 1 to 2 minutes, until light golden and crisp. Drain on a rack and sprinkle with salt.
  5. Serve. Serve right away with warm marinara, lemon wedges and parsley.

Nutrition per serving (estimated)

480Calories
45 gCarbohydrates
3 gFiber
42 gNet carbs
33 gProtein
18 gFat

Includes an estimated 1 tablespoon of frying oil absorbed per serving. Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings, using USDA FoodData Central values for each ingredient. Net carbs are carbohydrates minus fiber. Optional ingredients, garnishes and anything served on the side are not included, and marinades are counted at about a third because most is discarded. Brands and portion sizes change the numbers.

High-proteinNo added sugar

Tips

  • Fry in small batches so the oil stays hot and the coating stays crisp.
  • Frozen cleaned squid works well; thaw it in the refrigerator.

Storage and leftovers

Best eaten right away. Leftovers turn chewy; reheat briefly in the air fryer at 400°F for 2 minutes if you must.

Questions about this recipe

Why is my calamari chewy?
It was cooked too long. Squid needs only 1 to 2 minutes in hot oil.
Can I make calamari in an air fryer?
Yes. Spray the coated squid with oil and air-fry at 400°F for 7 to 8 minutes, shaking halfway.

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