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Calamari steak is the unsung hero of seafood—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and ready in just 25 minutes! Did you know calamari is not only delicious but also packed with protein and low in calories? Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe will transform your weeknight dinners into a Mediterranean feast. Keep reading to discover how to make the perfect calamari steak that’s sure to impress!
Calamari Steak: A Mediterranean Deligh
My Love Affair with Calamari Steak
I’ll never forget the first time I tried calamari steak during a trip to the Mediterranean coast. The crispy, golden exterior and the tender, flavorful bite instantly won me over. When I returned home, I was determined to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. After a few trials (and a couple of rubbery mishaps!), I perfected this easy recipe that’s now a staple in my home. It’s become my go-to dish for impressing guests or treating myself to a quick dinner that feels special. Every bite takes me back to that sunny seaside meal, and I hope it brings a little joy to your table too!
25-Minute Calamari Steak: Quick, Crispy, and Irresistible
Course: Main CourseCuisine: Mediterranean, AmericanDifficulty: EasyServings
4
servingsPrep time
10
minutesCooking time
15
minutesCalories per servingkcal
Whip up a delicious calamari steak in just 25 minutes! This easy recipe features tender, crispy steaks seasoned with Mediterranean flavors like garlic, paprika, and lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special seafood feast!
Ingredients
4 calamari steaks (about 6 oz each)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 lemon (cut into wedges for serving)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Calamari Steaks: Pat the calamari steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispier sear.
- Season the Flour: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
- Coat the Steaks: Lightly dredge each calamari steak in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This creates a light coating that will crisp up beautifully when cooked.
- Prepare the butter and olive oil by heating them together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The combination of oil and butter adds richness and prevents burning.
- Cook the Calamari: Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the calamari steaks to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully done. Avoid overcooking, as calamari can become tough.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the calamari steaks to a serving plate. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Variations: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. You can also serve the calamari steaks with a side of marinara sauce or aioli for dipping.
- Storage: Calamari steaks are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture.
- Pro Tip: If calamari steaks are unavailable, you can use whole squid tubes, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces, as a substitute.
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
Serving size 1 calamari steak (150g)
Calories 250
| Total Fat 12g | 15% |
|---|---|
| Saturated Fat 3g | 15% |
| Trans Fat 0g | |
| Cholesterol 200mg | 67% |
| Sodium 300mg | 13% |
| Total Carbohydrate 10g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber 1g | 4% |
| Total Sugars 1g | |
| Includes Added Sugars 0g | 0% |
| Protein 25g |
| Vitamin D 0mcg | 0% |
|---|---|
| Calcium 50mg | 4% |
| Iron 1.5mg | 8% |
| Potassium 300mg | 6% |
FAQ
1. What is calamari steak?
Calamari steak is a tender, flavorful cut of squid that’s often sliced into flat, steak-like pieces. Unlike the more common calamari rings, calamari steaks are thicker and perfect for grilling, pan-searing, or baking. This easy recipe highlights the crispy calamari texture while keeping the inside tender and juicy. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy seafood with a Mediterranean twist!
2. How do I prevent calamari steak from becoming rubbery?
The key to avoiding rubbery calamari steak is cooking it quickly over high heat. Overcooking is the most common mistake, as calamari only needs 2-3 minutes per side to become perfectly tender. Using a hot skillet and not overcrowding the pan ensures a crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.
3. Can I use frozen calamari steaks for this recipe?
Yes, frozen calamari steaks work well for this recipe! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat them dry before cooking. This ensures they sear properly and achieve that crispy calamari texture.
4. What sides pair well with calamari steak?
Calamari steak pairs beautifully with light, Mediterranean-inspired sides like a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic butter rice. For a complete meal, serve it with a tangy garlic aioli or a squeeze of lemon to enhance the flavors.
5. Is calamari steak healthy?
Absolutely! Calamari steak is a lean source of protein, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. This quick dinner option is not only delicious but also fits well into a balanced diet.
Your New Favorite Seafood Dinner
If you’re searching for a dish that’s both impressive and easy to prepare, this recipe is a game-changer. With its golden, crispy exterior and tender, juicy center, it’s a seafood lover’s dream come true. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish brings a touch of Mediterranean flair to your table without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The straightforward nature of this recipe is what allows it to stand out. You don’t need to be a professional chef to create something that tastes like it came straight from a seaside restaurant. The combination of garlic, paprika, and a hint of lemon creates a burst of flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of garlic butter rice for a complete meal.
The fact that this dish may be prepared in a short amount of time is one of its most appealing features. In just 25 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time to spare. And if you’re new to cooking seafood, this recipe is a great place to start—it’s foolproof and delivers amazing results every time.
So, why not give it a try? Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to share your creations with us—we’d love to see how it turns out!
