Description

This easy fried calamari recipe makes crispy, golden squid rings with a light crunchy coating served with creamy homemade garlic aioli. A restaurant-style seafood appetizer you can make at home in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Calamari

1 lb calamari rings
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
1 cup buttermilk
vegetable oil for frying
lemon wedges for serving

Garlic Aioli

½ cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

In a small bowl whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate while you prepare the calamari.
In a shallow bowl combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Place the calamari rings in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let soak for about 10 minutes.
Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a heavy pot to 375°F.
Remove calamari from the buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
Fry calamari in batches for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel lined plate.
Serve immediately with garlic aioli and lemon wedges.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the fryer or the calamari will become soggy.
Calamari cooks very quickly—overcooking can make it rubbery.
For extra crunch, add 2 tablespoons semolina flour to the coating.

Prep Time: 10 MINUTES
Cook Time: 10 MINUTES
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Seafood