Do you love seafood with a crispy bite? Then you will enjoy this Pan Fried Calamari Recipe. It is easy, quick and very tasty.
The calamari turns golden and crunchy on the outside while staying soft inside. You can make it in just a few minutes with simple ingredients.
It’s perfect for a snack, appetizer or even a light meal. If you want a restaurant-style seafood dish at home, this recipe is for you. Let’s learn how to make Pan Fried Calamari and enjoy this amazing dish with your family.
My Experience With This Recipe
The first time I made this Pan Fried Calamari Recipe, I was amazed by how simple it was. The calamari cooked so fast, and the golden crust was perfect.
It was crispy but not oily. The taste was fresh, light, and full of flavor. I served it with lemon wedges and a creamy dipping sauce and everyone loved it.
Now, I make this dish often for seafood nights at home. It always disappears fast from the plate!
Recipe Card Info Without Table
- Recipe Name: Pan Fried Calamari Recipe
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Course: Appetizer or Snack
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Calories: 250 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Plate for serving
Ingredients You Need for Pan Fried Calamari
- 1 pound calamari rings and tentacles
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal (optional for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Clean the calamari
Rinse the calamari under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture. - Mix the coating
In a bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir well. - Coat the calamari
Add the calamari rings into the flour mix. Toss until each piece is coated evenly. - Heat the oil
Pour oil into a large frying pan. Heat it over medium-high heat until hot. - Fry the calamari
Place the coated calamari in the hot oil in small batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan. - Cook until golden
Fry each side for about 1–2 minutes until golden brown and crispy. - Drain the oil
Remove the calamari with tongs. Place on paper towels to soak excess oil. - Add lemon flavor
Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top for a bright, fresh flavor. - Serve and enjoy
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a sprinkle of parsley.
Recipe Tips
- Always dry the calamari before coating to make it crispier.
- Don’t overcook it. Calamari gets tough if cooked too long.
- Try adding chili flakes or cayenne for a spicy version.
- Use fresh oil for the best flavor and texture.
- You can also use rice flour for a gluten-free option.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Pan Fried Calamari tastes best when served right away. Pair it with lemon wedges, tartar sauce or garlic mayo.
You can also serve it with marinara sauce for a rich, tangy flavor. Add a side of fresh salad or fries for a complete meal. It also goes well with chilled drinks on a warm evening.
Best Sides To Serve With
- Garlic butter pasta
- Fresh garden salad
- French fries
- Coleslaw
- Grilled vegetables
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer. Heat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the calamari soft and chewy.
FAQs about Pan Fried Calamari Recipe
1. How to make Pan Fried Calamari crispy?
To keep calamari crispy, make sure to dry it before coating and fry it in hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
2. Can I use frozen calamari?
Yes, you can use frozen calamari. Just thaw it completely and pat it dry before coating and frying.
3. What sauce goes well with calamari?
Garlic mayo, tartar sauce, marinara sauce, or spicy aioli are perfect dips for fried calamari.
4. Why is my calamari tough?
Overcooking makes calamari rubbery. Fry it for only 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
5. Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake it at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes. It will be lighter but still tasty.
Conclusion
This Pan Fried Calamari Recipe is simple, quick and full of flavor. You can make it with basic ingredients and just a few steps. It’s crispy on the outside and soft inside—perfect for seafood lovers.
Whether you serve it as a snack, appetizer or part of a meal, it will impress everyone. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of the sea right to your kitchen.
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Pan Fried Calamari Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound calamari rings and tentacles
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal optional for extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lemon cut into wedges
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Clean the calamari
- Rinse the calamari under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
Mix the coating
- In a bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir well.
Coat the calamari
- Add the calamari rings into the flour mix. Toss until each piece is coated evenly.
Heat the oil
- Pour oil into a large frying pan. Heat it over medium-high heat until hot.
Fry the calamari
- Place the coated calamari in the hot oil in small batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Cook until golden
- Fry each side for about 1–2 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Drain the oil
- Remove the calamari with tongs. Place on paper towels to soak excess oil.
Add lemon flavor
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top for a bright, fresh flavor.
Serve and enjoy
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a sprinkle of parsley.
Notes
- Always dry the calamari before coating to make it crispier.
- Don’t overcook it. Calamari gets tough if cooked too long.
- Try adding chili flakes or cayenne for a spicy version.
- Use fresh oil for the best flavor and texture.
- You can also use rice flour for a gluten-free option.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
