If you are craving a dish that delivers a perfect crunch, a burst of citrus, and the tender, briny goodness of the sea, look no further than this Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Wedges Recipe. This incredible recipe transforms simple squid into a gourmet appetizer that’s irresistibly crispy on the outside while tender inside. Paired with zesty lemon wedges, each bite feels fresh, bright, and oh so satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a party, this dish always steals the show with its delightful textures and flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Wedges Recipe uses straightforward, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and crispiness. The combination of flour, cornstarch, and spices ensures a golden crust, while soaking in milk and lemon juice tenderizes the calamari, making each bite a perfect balance of juicy and crunchy.
- 1 pound calamari rings: Fresh or thawed squid rings form the foundation of the dish, offering that distinctive ocean flavor and tender texture.
- 1 cup whole milk: Used to soak the calamari rings, this helps mellow the natural brininess and tenderizes the squid.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a hint of brightness and helps to lightly cure the calamari before frying.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The primary coating that creates the crispy, golden crust.
- ¼ cup cornstarch: This adds extra crunch to the coating and keeps the crust light and airy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor note in the calamari and the breading mixture.
- 1 teaspoon dried dill: Lends a subtle herbal aroma that complements the seafood beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a warm color and a gentle smoky undertone to the batter.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Brings a slight peppery bite to round out the seasoning.
- Vegetable oil: For frying, chosen for its neutral flavor and high smoke point to get the calamari perfectly crispy.
- Lemon wedges: Essential for serving, they add a bright tang that cuts through the fried richness.
How to Make Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Wedges Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Calamari
Start by ensuring your calamari rings are fully thawed if they were frozen, and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial because it helps the coating stick better and ensures crispiness when fried.
Step 2: Milk Soak
Next, combine the whole milk and lemon juice, and pour this mixture over the calamari rings. This step is like a gentle marinade that tenderizes the squid and adds subtle citrus notes. Let the calamari sit in this soak briefly to maximize tenderness and flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, dried dill, paprika, and pepper. This seasoning blend brings complexity to the coating, ensuring every bite pops with flavor and a perfect golden color.
Step 4: Bread the Calamari
Remove the calamari from the milk soak, allowing the excess liquid to drip off gently. Then toss each ring in your flour mixture until thoroughly and evenly coated. This creates the crisp crust that will fry up beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare for Frying
Place the breaded calamari onto a clean plate or sheet pan, giving them a moment to settle. Meanwhile, prepare another plate lined with paper towels to catch the oil after frying, keeping your crisp calamari slick-free.
Step 6: Fry the Calamari
Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the calamari rings in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3 minutes, or until each ring turns a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
Remove the calamari from the oil and set them on the paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Work in batches until every piece is perfectly fried. Serve your crispy calamari immediately, with plenty of fresh lemon wedges ready to squeeze for that final touch of brightness.
How to Serve Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Wedges Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon wedges are the classic choice for this recipe, adding a lively tang that cuts through the fried crunch. You can also sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and color.
Side Dishes
Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Wedges Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Think crisp mixed greens, a refreshing cucumber salad, or a zesty garlic aioli for dipping. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon completes the perfect dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing appetizer platter, arrange the calamari on a rustic wooden board surrounded by bowls of maritime-inspired dips like marinara sauce, spicy sriracha mayo, or a cool tzatziki. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover crispy calamari, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain some crunch, consume within 1 to 2 days, although freshly fried is always best.
Freezing
Fried calamari is not the best candidate for freezing because it loses its crisp texture once thawed. If necessary, freeze raw calamari rings instead and fry them fresh for optimal results.
Reheating
To reheat leftover calamari, use an oven or air fryer set at 375°F for a few minutes to revive the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which makes the coating soggy and chewy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh calamari for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh calamari will work wonderfully and offers the best texture and flavor. Just be sure to clean and slice them into rings properly before starting the recipe.
What oil is best for frying calamari?
Vegetable oil is ideal because it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, allowing the calamari’s seasonings to shine without overpowering the dish.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small pinch of batter into it. If it sizzles and rises to the surface immediately, the oil is ready for frying.
Can I make the batter gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use cornstarch as directed. This tweak still ensures a deliciously crispy crust.
What should I serve with Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Wedges Recipe?
Light salads, garlic aioli, hummus, or tomato-based sauces make excellent companions for this dish. A crisp white wine or a cold beer ups the enjoyment too!
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about a plate of golden, crunchy calamari paired with bright lemon wedges. This Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Wedges Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to bring a touch of seaside elegance to your table. Dive in and enjoy the satisfying crunch, tender squid, and fresh citrus zing that makes every bite unforgettable. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
