Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli Recipe
Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli is a delicious and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the sea to your table. The tender squid rings are coated in a light, crispy batter and fried to golden perfection, while the creamy lemon aioli adds a zesty dip to balance the savory crunch. This classic appetizer is a perfect choice for parties, casual dinners, or as a starter to a seafood feast.
The combination of a light coating of seasoned flour and the flash fry technique makes the calamari crispy without being greasy, allowing the natural sweetness of the squid to shine. The lemon aioli, made with fresh garlic, lemon juice, and mayonnaise, complements the calamari with its creamy texture and tangy, citrusy flavor.
Tender, succulent calamari with a crispy coating, paired with a creamy and tangy lemon aioli that perfectly complements the seafood. The crunchiness of the fried calamari combined with the smooth dip creates a satisfying contrast in each bite. This dish is sure to impress seafood lovers and anyone looking to try a delicious new appetizer.
Tools to Use
- Large mixing bowl
- Shallow dish for breading
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Paper towels for draining
- Small bowl for aioli
- Zester or grater for lemon zest
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the Calamari:
- 1 lb fresh squid, cleaned and cut into rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Lemon Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon Aioli
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Stir until well mixed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add more zest or juice. Set aside in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Batter the Calamari
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Toss the squid rings into the seasoned flour mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Fry the Calamari
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). You want enough oil to fully submerge the calamari.
- Fry the calamari in small batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the calamari and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve
- Arrange the crispy fried calamari on a serving platter. Serve with the lemon aioli for dipping. Optionally, garnish with extra lemon wedges for added citrus flavor.
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Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Shallow dish for breading
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Paper towels (for draining)
- Small bowl for aioli
- Zester or grater for lemon zest
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- For the Calamari:
- 1 lb fresh squid cleaned and cut into rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for spice
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the Lemon Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon Aioli
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Stir until well mixed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add more zest or juice. Set aside in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Batter the Calamari
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Toss the squid rings into the seasoned flour mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Fry the Calamari
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). You want enough oil to fully submerge the calamari.
- Fry the calamari in small batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the calamari and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve
- Arrange the crispy fried calamari on a serving platter. Serve with the lemon aioli for dipping. Optionally, garnish with extra lemon wedges for added citrus flavor.
Tips for Cooking
- Be sure not to overcook the calamari, as it can turn tough and rubbery. It cooks very quickly, so keep an eye on it while frying.
- If you prefer extra crunch, double coat the calamari by dipping them in egg wash before dredging in the flour mixture.
- Use fresh squid for the best taste and texture. Frozen calamari can also work, but it may have a slightly different texture.
- The aioli can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli is a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to prepare at home. The combination of perfectly fried calamari with a tangy, flavorful aioli dip makes for an irresistible appetizer or snack. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, making a light lunch, or simply enjoying a seafood treat, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli is a must-try recipe for seafood lovers and anyone looking to elevate their appetizer game. The crispiness of the calamari combined with the zesty aioli creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Try this recipe for your next gathering or when you want a special treat—it’s sure to impress!
