Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Recipe
If you’re craving a dish with a perfect balance of crunch, zest, and tender seafood, the Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Recipe is your ultimate go-to. This dish captures the delightful contrast between golden, crunchy calamari rings and the bright burst of fresh lemon juice, making every bite an irresistible treat. Whether for a casual gathering or a special appetizer, these lightly battered rings soak up flavors wonderfully and deliver that satisfying crisp that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up this Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Recipe is easier than you might think, thanks to a handful of simple ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the smooth tang of lemon juice to the light yet crisp coating created by the perfect blend of flours and spices, every component enhances the final dish’s texture and flavor.
- 1 pound calamari rings: The star ingredient, providing tender and flavorful seafood perfect for quick frying.
- 1 cup whole milk: Helps tenderize the calamari while creating a base for the lemon marinade.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a fresh, zesty touch to the milk soak, brightening the calamari’s flavor.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The main coating ingredient for that classic crispy crust.
- ¼ cup cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness and lightness to the batter.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried dill: Brings a subtle herbal note that complements seafood beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and vibrant color to the coating.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Gently balances the spice profile for a well-rounded taste.
- Vegetable oil: Needed for frying to achieve that perfect golden crisp exterior.
- Lemon wedges: The perfect finishing touch to squeeze onto the fried calamari.
How to Make Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Calamari
Start with thawing the calamari rings if they’re frozen, then pat them completely dry. Drying the squid is crucial because excess moisture can prevent the coating from crisping up properly. Place the rings in a bowl, ready for the next step.
Step 2: Milk Soak
Pour the whole milk mixed with fresh lemon juice over the calamari. This soak tenderizes the squid and introduces a subtle tang, preparing it perfectly for the flour coating. Give the rings a gentle stir to ensure they’re evenly coated and let them soak while you prepare the flour mixture.
Step 3: Prepare Flour Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, dried dill, paprika, and pepper. This blend not only creates the crisp structure when fried but layers in flavor that makes the calamari exciting from the first bite. The dill and paprika add unexpected yet delightful notes.
Step 4: Bread Calamari
Lift the calamari rings from the milk soak, allowing any extra liquid to drip off—too much moisture will cause the coating to clump and fry unevenly. Toss the rings thoroughly in the flour mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated with that delicious seasoned flour blend.
Step 5: Prepare for Frying
Arrange the breaded calamari on a plate or baking sheet, giving them a quick rest. Meanwhile, prepare another plate lined with paper towels to drain the oil once the calamari comes out of the skillet. Heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot enough for frying.
Step 6: Fry Calamari
Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, so they’re not overcrowded. Fry for approximately 3 minutes or until the coating turns a stunning golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as squid can become chewy if fried too long.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
After frying, immediately transfer the calamari to the paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining calamari rings. Serve them piping hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side — squeezing lemon adds that refreshing zing that perfectly complements the crispy coating and tender squid.
How to Serve Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon wedges are a classic accompaniment, but you can also sprinkle chopped parsley or a pinch of sea salt for extra flavor and visual appeal. A drizzle of garlic aioli or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can also elevate this appetizer to restaurant-quality indulgence.
Side Dishes
This Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Recipe pairs beautifully with light sides like a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even a tangy coleslaw. These sides add freshness and balance the richness of the fried calamari, creating a harmonious meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the calamari in a rustic wooden bowl or on a large platter lined with parchment paper for a casual vibe. For a fancier presentation, arrange the rings around a small bowl of marinara or a lemon-herb dipping sauce. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can further enhance the appeal for a festive occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover calamari, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover fried calamari for up to a month. Place the cooled pieces on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer into a freezer-safe container or bag. This prevents them from sticking and keeps their crispy potential intact.
Reheating
To bring back the crispy texture, avoid microwaving as it can make the calamari soggy. Instead, quickly reheat in a hot oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. This method revives the crunch while warming the calamari through beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen calamari for this Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure to thaw the calamari completely and pat dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can cause the coating to become soggy during frying.
What type of oil is best for frying calamari?
Vegetable oil is a great choice because it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, allowing the calamari’s seasoning and lemony brightness to shine.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
When the oil shimmers and a small breadcrumb dropped in sizzles and rises to the surface immediately, it’s ready. Maintaining medium-high heat helps achieve a crispy, golden crust without overcooking the calamari.
Can I make the flour coating gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch. The texture will remain crisp, and the calamari will be just as delicious.
Is it necessary to soak calamari in milk and lemon?
While it’s not mandatory, soaking calamari in milk and lemon juice tenderizes the squid and adds subtle flavor, which makes a noticeable difference in the final dish’s tenderness and brightness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Recipe that keeps it a favorite for good reason. It’s easy to prepare yet impressively delicious, combining that crave-worthy crunch with fresh, zesty flavors that excite every palate. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it your go-to appetizer for gatherings or a simple but spectacular treat any day of the week.
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Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Fried Calamari recipe offers a crispy, flavorful appetizer or snack, featuring tender squid rings soaked in a lemon-milk mixture, coated with a seasoned flour and cornstarch blend, then perfectly deep-fried to golden brown. Served with fresh lemon wedges, it’s an irresistible treat for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound calamari rings (or squid tubes cut into rings)
Soaking Mixture
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Breading Mixture
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Serving
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Calamari: Thaw the calamari rings if frozen. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels and place them in a mixing bowl to prepare for soaking.
- Milk Soak: Pour the whole milk and lemon juice over the calamari rings. Stir gently to ensure all rings are evenly coated; this tenderizes the calamari and adds subtle flavor. Let it soak for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare Flour Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, dried dill, paprika, and pepper. This blend creates a light, crispy coating when fried.
- Bread Calamari: Remove the calamari rings from the milk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Toss the calamari rings in the seasoned flour mixture until each ring is evenly coated.
- Arrange for Frying: Place the breaded calamari rings onto a plate or sheet pan, spreading them out to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Oil and Plate: Line a second plate or sheet pan with paper towels to drain fried calamari. Pour about an inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat until the oil reaches approximately 350°F (175°C).
- Fry Calamari: Carefully place small batches of breaded calamari into the hot oil. Fry for about 3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried calamari to the paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Continue frying in batches until all calamari is cooked.
- Serve: Serve the fried calamari fresh and hot, accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the top for added brightness and flavor.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when frying to maintain oil temperature and ensure crispiness.
- Patting the calamari dry before soaking helps the coating adhere better.
- You may add additional spices such as cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Serve immediately for the best texture as fried calamari can become soggy once cooled.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature for perfect frying results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
