If you’re craving something crunchy, flavorful, and absolutely addictive, this Fried Calamari with Garlic & Herbs recipe is your next kitchen adventure. Perfectly golden and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with the aromatic blend of garlic and fresh herbs, this dish makes a fantastic appetizer or snack that’s quick to whip up. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this classic fried calamari recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward techniques for impressive results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a last-minute appetizer.
- Irresistible Crunch: The light, golden crisp coating gives every bite a satisfying snap.
- Fresh Flavors: Garlic and herbs infuse the calamari with vibrant, mouthwatering aroma.
- Versatile Appetizer: Ideal for parties, casual dinners, or special occasions alike.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely have on hand, making it an accessible dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fried Calamari with Garlic & Herbs recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering texture, flavor, and color. From tender calamari tubes and rings to the zesty herbs and crispy coating, every element uplifts the dish with balance and taste.
- Calamari: Fresh or thawed squid tubes and rings provide the tender seafood base.
- Flour: All-purpose flour helps create the crispy outer crust you’ll love.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers aromatic depth and richness.
- Mixed Herbs: Parsley, oregano, or thyme bring fresh, green notes complementing the seafood.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning for enhancing all natural flavors.
- Olive Oil: Used for frying and adds a subtle fruitiness to the crust.
- Fresh Lemon: For serving; its brightness cuts through the richness perfectly.
Variations for Fried Calamari with Garlic & Herbs
One of the best parts about this Fried Calamari with Garlic & Herbs recipe is how easily you can customize it. Depending on your dietary preferences, the ingredients you have on hand, or your flavor cravings, there are many delightful twists you can try.
- Gluten-Free Twist: Swap all-purpose flour with rice flour or a gluten-free blend for a safe, crunchy option.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne powder to the flour mix for a little heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil, dill, or even cilantro to alter the herbal profile.
- Alternative Dipping Sauces: Pair with spicy aioli, marinara, or even a tangy yogurt dip.
- Air Fryer Friendly: Use an air fryer for a lighter, less oily alternative while keeping crispiness.
How to Make Fried Calamari with Garlic & Herbs
Step 1: Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Slice the tubes into 1/2-inch rings and leave the tentacles whole if included. Dryness is key for that perfect crunch.
Step 2: Mix the Herb & Garlic Flour Coating
In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour with minced garlic, finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley and oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This mixture will give the calamari its flavorful crust.
Step 3: Coat the Calamari
Toss the calamari rings and tentacles in the herb-infused flour mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated. For an extra crispy result, you can lightly shake off excess flour but retain a good coating layer.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer, heat olive oil to around 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the right temperature is crucial to achieve crispiness without greasy calamari.
Step 5: Fry the Calamari
Fry the coated calamari in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes each, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. Remove when golden brown, then drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 6: Serve with Lemon
Serve the fried calamari piping hot with lemon wedges on the side. The fresh squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the rich flavors perfectly.
Pro Tips for Making Fried Calamari with Garlic & Herbs
- Dry Calamari Thoroughly: Moisture interferes with crisping, so pat dry well before coating.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and even browning.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, oregano, or thyme provide the best aromatic punch compared to dried versions.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at optimal frying heat and prevent soggy calamari.
- Serve Immediately: Fried calamari is best enjoyed right after frying for maximum crunch.
How to Serve Fried Calamari with Garlic & Herbs
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top and lemon wedges not only add color but also amplify the fresh, zesty flavors beautifully. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also elevate the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
Pair this fried calamari with crisp green salads, garlic aioli, or classic marinara sauce for dipping. For a heartier option, roasted vegetables or a simple pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs complement the dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the fried calamari in a charming basket or on a rustic wooden board with parchment paper for a casual vibe. Adding a ramekin or two of different dips adds excitement and variety to the platter, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because fried foods can lose their crispness, it’s best to consume within 1 to 2 days to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While frying and then freezing isn’t ideal for texture, you can freeze uncooked, coated calamari on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready, fry directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Reheating
To restore crispiness when reheating, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 8 minutes instead of the microwave, which can make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen calamari for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before coating and frying to ensure it crisps up perfectly.
What herbs work best for Fried Calamari with Garlic & Herbs?
Parsley and oregano are classic choices, but thyme, basil, or even a pinch of rosemary can add unique flavor twists.
Is olive oil the best choice for frying calamari?
Olive oil adds a lovely subtle flavor, but you can also use vegetable or canola oil with higher smoke points if preferred.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour for a safe and crunchy coating.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
Yes, coat the calamari and keep them refrigerated until ready to fry for best freshness; however, frying just before serving yields the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Jump into the delicious world of crispy, garlicky, herb-infused seafood with this Fried Calamari with Garlic & Herbs recipe. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress everyone at your table. Give it a try, and watch this crispy classic become your new favorite appetizer to share and savor.