Crispy Calamares with Lemon & Tartar
Golden-fried squid rings with a squeeze of fresh lemon, creamy tartar sauce, and a bright side salad. Restaurant-quality in under 25 minutes, no deep fryer required.
- Total time
- 25 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 520
- Protein
- 38g

Ingredients
- 1 lb squid, cleaned and cut into 1/4-inch rings
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 whole lemon
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp cornichons (or diced pickles), finely chopped
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 3 cup neutral oil for frying
Instructions
- 1
Pat squid completely dry with paper towels. Combine flour with salt and pepper in a shallow bowl.
- 2
Beat eggs in another bowl. Heat oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high to 350°F, about 4 minutes.
- 3
Dip squid rings in egg, then dredge in seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Work in two batches.
- 4
Fry first batch 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate.
- 5
Stir mayo and chopped cornichons together for tartar sauce. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- 6
Plate calamares, salad, lemon wedge, and tartar sauce. Squeeze lemon over squid just before eating.
Tools you’ll need
- large heavy skillet (12-inch)
- instant-read thermometer
- two shallow bowls
- paper towels
- slotted spoon
- small mixing bowl
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