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Craving a delicious and simple seafood treat?
This crispy fried calamari recipe is perfect for beginners, offering a quick and satisfying way to enjoy tender squid with a golden, crispy coating.
With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 12 squid (cleaned and cut into rings)
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oil
- Start by heating the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large saucepan.
- You want the oil to reach 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, dried oregano, and black pepper.
- This seasoned flour mix will give your calamari its crispy coating.
Step 3: Dredge the Squid
- Take the cleaned squid rings and coat them evenly with the flour mixture.
- Make sure each ring is well-covered to ensure a crispy texture.
Step 4: Fry the Calamari
- Carefully place the coated squid rings into the hot oil.
- Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn a light golden brown.
- Be careful not to overcook them, as this can make the squid tough and chewy.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
- Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the calamari from the oil and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help remove any excess oil.
Step 6: Garnish
- Serve the crispy calamari with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a fresh, zesty flavor that perfectly complements the dish.
FAQs
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
You can use a deep-fry thermometer to check that the oil is at 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if the bread browns in about 60 seconds, the oil is ready.
What can I serve with fried calamari?
Fried calamari is delicious on its own but pairs well with dipping sauces like marinara, aioli, or a squeeze of lemon. It also makes a great addition to salads or pasta dishes.

Classic Italian Calamari
Ingredients
- 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 12 squid (cleaned and cut into rings)
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges for serving)
Instructions
Prepare the Oil
- Start by heating the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large saucepan.You want the oil to reach 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
Mix the Coating
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, dried oregano, and black pepper. This seasoned flour mix will give your calamari its crispy coating.
Dredge the Squid
- Take the cleaned squid rings and coat them evenly with the flour mixture.Make sure each ring is well-covered to ensure a crispy texture.
Fry the Calamari
- Carefully place the coated squid rings into the hot oil.Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn a light golden brown.Be careful not to overcook them, as this can make the squid tough and chewy.
Drain and Serve
- Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the calamari from the oil and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help remove any excess oil.
Garnish
- Serve the crispy calamari with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a fresh, zesty flavor that perfectly complements the dish.



