Discover how to make the perfect Fried Calamari with this easy-to-follow recipe. This popular seafood dish features tender calamari rings coated in a crispy, golden batter, served with a fresh lemon wedge. Ideal for appetizers or a delightful main course, our step-by-step guide ensures a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Perfectly seasoned and quick to prepare, this calamari recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound calamari rings (fresh or thawed)

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 cup cornmeal

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon onion powder

- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 1 cup buttermilk

- Vegetable oil, for frying

- Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Calamari:

  - If using frozen calamari, thaw and pat dry with paper towels. Cut into rings if not pre-cut.

Set Up Breading Station:

  - In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

  - In another bowl, pour the buttermilk.

Coat the Calamari:

  - Dip each calamari ring into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.

  - Dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat. Shake off any excess.

Heat the Oil:

  - In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). 

Fry the Calamari:

  - Working in batches, carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.

  - Use a slotted spoon to transfer the calamari to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Serve:

  - Arrange the fried calamari on a serving platter. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Enjoy your crispy fried calamari with a refreshing squeeze of lemon!

Nutritional Values:

Calamari (per 3.5 ounces / 100 grams):

- Calories: 92 kcal

- Protein: 15 grams

- Fat: 1.2 grams

- Carbohydrates: 3 grams

- Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in B vitamins (especially B12), potassium, and selenium.

Benefits:

- High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.

- Low in fat, making it a lean protein source.

- Rich in minerals like selenium and potassium, which support thyroid health and nerve function.

All-Purpose Flour (per 1 cup):

- Calories: 455 kcal

- Protein: 13 grams

- Fat: 1 gram

- Carbohydrates: 95 grams

Benefits:

- Provides energy due to its high carbohydrate content.

- Versatile ingredient used for thickening and coating in various recipes.

Cornmeal (per 1 cup):

- Calories: 440 kcal

- Protein: 9 grams

- Fat: 2 grams

- Carbohydrates: 90 grams

- Fiber: 5 grams

Benefits:

- High in fiber, supporting digestive health.

- Rich in antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, beneficial for eye health.

- Source of iron, which supports red blood cell production and energy levels.

Paprika (per 1 tablespoon):

- Calories: 19 kcal

- Protein: 1 gram

- Fat: 0.8 grams

- Carbohydrates: 4 grams

- Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in vitamin A, vitamin E, and antioxidants.

Benefits:

- Contains capsaicin with anti-inflammatory properties.

- Rich in antioxidants, supporting overall health and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Garlic Powder (per 1 tablespoon):

- Calories: 23 kcal

- Protein: 1 gram

- Fat: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 5 grams

- Vitamins & Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamins B6 and C, and manganese.

Benefits:

- Provides immune support with antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties.

- May contribute to heart health by potentially lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Onion Powder (per 1 tablespoon):

- Calories: 28 kcal

- Protein: 1 gram

- Fat: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 7 grams

- Vitamins & Minerals: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.

Benefits:

- Contains anti-inflammatory compounds.

- Rich in antioxidants, supporting overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Cayenne Pepper (per 1 teaspoon):

- Calories: 6 kcal

- Protein: 0.3 grams

- Fat: 0.3 grams

- Carbohydrates: 1 gram

- Vitamins & Minerals: High in vitamin A and capsaicin.

Benefits:

- Capsaicin can boost metabolism and promote fat burning.

- May provide pain relief due to its analgesic properties.

Buttermilk (per 1 cup):

- Calories: 98 kcal

- Protein: 8 grams

- Fat: 2.5 grams

- Carbohydrates: 12 grams

- Vitamins & Minerals: Contains calcium, vitamin B12, and riboflavin.

Benefits:

- High in calcium, supporting strong bones and teeth.

- Contains probiotics that promote a healthy digestive system.

Vegetable Oil (per 1 tablespoon):

- Calories: 120 kcal

- Fat: 14 grams

- Saturated Fat: 1.5 grams

Benefits:

- Provides a neutral flavor and high smoke point suitable for frying.

- Contains omega-6 fatty acids, which are important for overall health.