15 Calamari Recipes That Will Make Your Taste Buds Sing

If you’re a lover of calamari, you’re in luck because this seafood sensation can be transformed into an array of mouthwatering dishes that cater to diverse tastes. Whether you prefer the crunch of fried calamari or the tender flavor of grilled calamari, there’s a recipe waiting to tantalize your taste buds. In this post, we’ll embark on a culinary journey to discover some of the most mouth-watering calamari recipes out there.

So, sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in the world of delectable calamari creations!

Air Fryer Calamari

Indulge in the crispy, mouthwatering goodness of Air Fryer Calamari without the guilt of deep-frying. This delectable recipe boasts a unique breading mixture comprising seasoned semolina flour, all-purpose flour, and stone ground yellow cornmeal, yielding a satisfying crunch that harmonizes perfectly with marinara sauce or homemade lemon garlic aioli. Whether as an appetizer for parties or a side dish to savor, this delightful treat is sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Buttermilk Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli

Indulge in the delectable Buttermilk Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli, a creative spin on the traditional calamari appetizer. The tender calamari bites are marinated in buttermilk, infusing each piece with unparalleled flavor and texture. A crispy coating, expertly seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, provides a delightful contrast to the soft calamari.

But what truly elevates this dish is the tangy and creamy lemon aioli served on the side – a match made in heaven that will leave you yearning for another bite.

Crispy Fried Calamari

In the world of Greek cuisine, Crispy Fried Calamari stands out as a beloved meze that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The key to achieving this delightful combination lies in the preparation process. Thin slices of calamari are dredged in a carefully crafted mixture of flour and seasoning, yielding a satisfying crunch with each bite. According to traditional recipes, thicker slices of calamari are often preferred for their more robust taste profile.

Once coated, the calamari is fried to a golden brown perfection, after which it’s served with a burst of citrusy freshness courtesy of a squeeze of lemon juice. This delectable meze not only makes for an excellent starting point for any meal but also pairs exceptionally well with classic Greek salad and crispy fries.

Spicy Two Minute Calamari

This mouthwatering Spicy Two-Minute Calamari dish is a game-changer in terms of flavor and simplicity. By combining juicy tomatoes, tender calamari, salty capers, and the perfect balance of spicy peppadew peppers, you’ll be treated to an explosion of flavors that will leave you wanting more. What’s most impressive about this recipe is its lack of reliance on deep-frying – instead, the calamari is quickly sautéed to perfection, topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs infused with fresh herbs.

This dish is a chameleon, capable of being enjoyed as a light summer snack or as an impressive appetizer for a crowd. And the best part? The calamari cooks in just two minutes, making it a cinch to prepare. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or simply looking for a new twist on a classic, this recipe is sure to be a winner.

Fried Calamari

Fried calamari is a timeless appetizer that combines the tender texture of squid rings with the satisfying crunch of a well-crafted batter. The secret to its crispy exterior lies in the perfect blend of all-purpose flour, rice flour, and baking powder, which yields a golden-brown crust that remains crunchy throughout.

When served with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and your preferred dipping sauce, this delightful dish showcases the mild and subtly sweet flavor of squid, making it an irresistible choice for any meal.

Italian Fried Calamari

Italian Fried Calamari is a culinary delight that combines the freshness of squid with the richness of flavors from flour, olive oil, and crushed garlic. The cooking process ensures a crispy exterior and tender interior, making it an ideal starter for seafood enthusiasts. Serve it with a squeeze of lemon or pair it with a tangy marinara sauce for a truly satisfying experience.

Italian Stuffed Calamari

Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with this delectable stuffed calamari recipe, perfect for special occasions or holiday feasts. The tender tubes are first filled with a harmonious blend of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, fragrant herbs, and aromatic spices, before being slow-cooked in a rich red sauce that adds depth and complexity to the dish. When served over pasta or polenta, this impressive meal is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.

And for those seeking an alternative preparation method, baking the stuffed calamari offers a delightful twist on the classic recipe. With its simple yet elegant presentation, Italian Stuffed Calamari is poised to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Salt & Pepper Calamari

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Salt & Pepper Calamari, a delectable and effortless culinary delight. This mouthwatering dish begins by marinating calamari in a tangy mixture of rice wine vinegar and seasoning, infusing each piece with an irresistible zest. Next, the tender strips are coated in a savory corn flour blend, perfectly seasoned to complement their natural sweetness.

For added visual appeal and bursts of flavor, the calamari is garnished with a medley of optional toppings, including spring onion, spicy togarashi seasoning, chili flakes, fragrant basil, and zesty lime or lemon wedges. To complete this gastronomic experience, serve the Salt & Pepper Calamari alongside an array of creamy dipping sauces, such as wasabi mayo and tartare sauce. The result is a scrumptious and satisfying starter that will leave you craving for more.

Calamari Stew

Indulge in the delectable taste of Calamari Stew, a recipe that effortlessly transitions from main course to appetizer. The tender calamari, slow-cooked with green olives in a rich tomato sauce, melds together in harmony. The pungent flavor of the green olives provides a delightful balance of salty and tangy notes, while parsley injects a burst of freshness into each bite. This mouthwatering stew finds perfect companionship with crusty artisan bread or creamy homemade polenta.

Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Calamari Stew is sure to impress as a seafood delight that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Salt and Pepper Calamari

Indulge in the scrumptious Salt and Pepper Calamari, a culinary delight that effortlessly recreates the flavors of your favorite restaurant at home. The secret to its addictive crunch lies in the clever coating of calamari rings with a cornstarch and flour mixture, perfectly balanced by a judicious sprinkle of salt, pepper, and granulated garlic. This harmonious blend awakens a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.

To add an extra layer of zest, serve it with a flourish of sliced green onions and a pinch of salt, pepper, for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Air Fryer Frozen Calamari

Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of Air Fryer Frozen Calamari, a straightforward yet tantalizing recipe that yields scrumptious, crispy calamari in mere minutes. By leveraging store-bought frozen calamari and the air fryer’s magic, you’ll achieve a golden crust with an unparalleled texture. To elevate this delectable dish, a rich and spicy chipotle dipping sauce is served on the side, tantalizing your taste buds with its creamy tanginess.

Whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying snack or a show-stopping appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress.

Calamari Fritti

Indulge in the crispy delight of Calamari Fritti, a delectable appetizer that eclipses its restaurant counterparts. By lightly dusting the calamari rings and pan-frying them to a golden brown perfection, this recipe yields tender, non-overcooked pieces with a mild flavor profile that’s surprisingly free from any fishy undertones. Served alongside a tangy Peri-Peri Yogurt Dip, this mouthwatering combination is not only easy on the wallet but also simple to prepare at home.

With its universal appeal, it’s an ideal choice for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Spicy Calamari

A delectable and aromatic twist on traditional calamari, Spicy Calamari presents a scrumptious gluten-free and low-carb option that’s sure to tantalize the taste buds. The crispy fried rings are infused with the rich flavors of garlic and homemade Cajun powder, imparting a subtle smokiness and pungency that elevates the dish.

A burst of citrusy freshness from a squeeze of lemon juice provides a welcome contrast, rounding out this straightforward yet captivating recipe that’s an absolute must-try for seafood enthusiasts seeking a thrilling culinary experience.

Baked Calamari

For those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional fried calamari, Baked Calamari is a game-changer. This recipe yields crispy and crunchy rings that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying game day snack. The secret lies in the coating mixture of flour, eggs, Panko bread crumbs, cornmeal, and Old Bay spice, which infuses the calamari with a rich flavor profile.

What’s more, this dish is an excellent way to introduce squid to picky eaters, as the texture is surprisingly kid-friendly. Enjoy it on its own or paired with marinara for dipping – either way, this baked calamari is sure to delight a crowd.

Vegan Calamari

Indulge in the delightful vegan version of calamari, reimagined to perfection! Marinated soy curls are transformed into a crispy, chewy delight by coating them in a flavorful flour batter and pan-frying. This game-changing appetizer is a must-try for vegans and anyone seeking a refreshing spin on traditional calamari. Savor it with a tangy garlic mayo dip or rich marinara sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.