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Calamari Steak Recipe

Grilled calamari steak with lemon and herbs.

If you love seafood but want something unique, Calamari Steak is the perfect dish to add to your repertoire! This recipe delivers a crispy, golden crust with an irresistibly tender and flavorful inside—all in just minutes. Whether pan-seared, grilled, or fried, I’ll guide you through the best way to cook Calamari Steak and ensure it’s never tough or rubbery.

 

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

For the Calamari Steak:

  • 2 calamari steaks (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for low-carb)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed pork rinds for keto)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (or Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

 

Instructions

  • Prepare the Calamari Steak:
    • If the calamari steaks are thick, gently pound them with a meat mallet to tenderize.
    • Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • Set Up the Coating Station:
    • Place flour in one shallow bowl.
    • Beat the egg in another bowl.
    • In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • Coat the Steaks:
    • Dredge each calamari steak in the flour, shaking off excess.
    • Dip into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
    • Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
  • Pan-Sear the Calamari Steak:
    • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Cook each steak for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcooking to prevent a rubbery texture.
  • Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
    • In a small pan, melt 2 tbsp butter over low heat.
    • Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley.
  • Serve & Enjoy:
    • Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the cooked calamari steaks.
    • Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • For Extra Crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs or mix in grated Parmesan.
  • Low-Carb/Keto: Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Spicy Kick: Add Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
  • Serving Ideas: Serve with a light salad, garlic butter pasta, or mashed potatoes.
  • Best Reheating Method: Use an air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness.