Here is a crispy, golden, Mediterranean-style Calamari Rings recipe — light, crunchy, tender, and perfect as an appetizer or snack. 🦑✨

🦑 Mediterranean Crispy Calamari Rings

Crispy outside, tender inside, and seasoned with bright Mediterranean flavors like lemon, garlic, oregano, and parsley.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Calamari

• 500g squid tubes, cleaned

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornstarch

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 lemon (cut into wedges for serving)

• Oil for frying

For the Egg Wash

• 2 eggs

• 2 tbsp milk or water

For Serving (Optional but Recommended)

• Garlic yogurt dip or tzatziki

• Fresh parsley (chopped)

• Extra lemon wedges

• Chili flakes

🍽️ Instructions

1. Prepare the Calamari

1. Slice the squid tubes into ½-inch rings.

2. Rinse and pat dry thoroughly — dry calamari fries better.

2. Create the Coating

In a bowl, mix:

• Flour

• Cornstarch

• Paprika

• Oregano

• Salt

• Black pepper

Cornstarch makes it extra crispy!

3. Prepare the Egg Wash

Whisk eggs + 2 tbsp milk/water in a bowl.

4. Coat the Calamari

1. Dip each ring into the egg wash

2. Coat in the flour mixture

3. Shake off excess

5. Fry

1. Heat oil to 180°C (350°F)

2. Fry calamari rings in small batches for 1.5–2 minutes

   • Do NOT overcook — they turn rubbery fast.

3. Remove and place on paper towels.

6. Season & Serve

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley

• Serve with tzatziki, mayo-garlic dip, or spicy aioli

🌿 Mediterranean Tips

✨ Add za’atar to the coating for extra flavor
✨ Toss fried calamari with chili flakes + olive oil + lemon zest
✨ Serve over a Greek salad to make a complete meal