When it comes to appetizers, nothing beats Crispy Fried Calamari. One of the best menu items you can order at a restaurant and even better when you make it at home.

What is Fried Calamari?

Fried calamari is a classic seafood dish featuring tender squid rings and tentacles coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried to crispy perfection. This popular appetizer is often served with marinara sauce, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Whether you’ve had it at an Italian restaurant or a seafood shack, learning to make fried calamari at home is easier than you think!

Why You’ll Love This Fried Calamari Recipe:

Crispy & Flavorful: A perfect balance of crunch and tender squid.

Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick cooking time.

Restaurant-Style Taste: Get that golden, crispy texture at home.

What You’ll Need To Make Fried Calamari:

Squid Tubes & Tentacles: Using fresh squid is best for this. I found mine at Restaurant Depot. This pack has the Squid Tubes and Tentacles. In my personal opinion the tentacles are the best part when eating fried calamari.

Buttermilk: Using Buttermilk helps tenderize and break down the squid. resulting in more tender pieces. Also helps the coating and created anaeven coating when fried.

Dredge: Our dredge is a mixture of, Flour and Corn Starch. Flour creates a thick exterior, while the corn starch creates a light yet crunchy texture.

Seasonings: Blend of seasonings I used for this dish are: Nature’s Seasoning, Cajun Seasoning/Old Bay and Cayenne Pepper for an extra kick. Cayenne Pepper is optional.

How to Make Deep Fried Calamari

Slice the squid tubes into rings and add them to a large bowl with the tentacles.

Pour in the buttermilk, salt, and hot sauce, stirring to combine. Cover and let the squid marinate for 30-60 minutes.

In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, Cajun seasoning, Nature’s seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if desired).

Once marinated, drain the squid and coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess coating using a strainer or wire rack.

Heat oil to 325-350°F and fry the calamari in batches for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.

Place the fried calamari on a baking pan lined with paper towels and season with salt.

Garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. Serve hot with marinara sauce and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Fried Calamari

Use fresh or frozen squid: Fresh squid provides the best texture, but frozen works well when thawed properly.

Maintain the right oil temperature: Too hot, and the coating burns; too cold, and the calamari gets greasy.

Don’t overcrowd the fryer: Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature stable.

Serve immediately: Deep-fried calamari is best enjoyed fresh and hot!

What to Serve with Fried Calamari

Pair your fried calamari with classic dipping sauces like marinara, garlic aioli, sweet chili or tartar sauce. For a full seafood spread, serve alongside fried shrimp, grilled fish, or a creamy spinach dip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fried Calamari Made Of?

Fried calamari is made from squid, typically the rings and tentacles, coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until crispy.

How Do You Keep Fried Calamari Crispy?

To keep deep-fried calamari crispy, fry at the right temperature and drain excess oil on a wire rack instead of paper towels.

Can You Make Fried Calamari in an Air Fryer?

Yes! For a healthier version, air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Why is My Fried Calamari Chewy or Rubbery?

Overcooking is the main cause of rubbery calamari. To keep it tender, fry for only 5-7 minutes at 325-350°F.

Can I Use Frozen Squid for Fried Calamari?

Yes! Just thaw completely, pat dry to remove excess moisture, and proceed with the recipe.