Crispy Fried Squid Rings — Calamares
Golden-fried squid rings with a thin, crackling crust and tender interior. Squeeze lemon over top and serve hot — the classic Spanish tapa in 15 minutes.
- Total time
- 15 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 385
- Protein
- 28g
Ingredients
- 1 lb squid (cleaned, body and tentacles)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups neutral oil (for frying)
- 1 whole lemon
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Slice squid bodies into 1/4-inch rings; pat dry with paper towels.
- 2
Heat oil in a heavy skillet or pot to 350°F — a wooden spoon handle should bubble vigorously when dipped in.
- 3
Toss squid and tentacles with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- 4
Working in batches, slide squid into hot oil and fry until golden and just beginning to crisp, 60–90 seconds per batch — do not overcrowd.
- 5
Transfer squid to a plate lined with paper towels; sprinkle with fleur de sel.
- 6
Squeeze fresh lemon over the top and serve immediately.
Tools you’ll need
- heavy skillet or deep pot (3-quart minimum)
- instant-read thermometer
- slotted spoon or spider strainer
- paper towels
- cutting board and knife
Cook smarter
Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge
CookSnap is a free iOS app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations.

