Crispy Calamari Recipe (Baked or Fried)

Name: Crispy Calamari Recipe (Baked or Fried)
Ingredients: 14 ounces calamari (rings and tentacles); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon (juices); 1 cup panko bread crumbs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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This crispy calamari recipe coats seasoned squid rings and tentacles in panko breadcrumbs and bakes them at 220°C until golden brown in 25 minutes. The lemon marinade keeps the squid tender while the breadcrumb crust turns crunchy.

Recipe Source

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From Justapinch

Ingredients

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7 Ingredients

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Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 220C/440F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2
Combine olive oil and lemon juice in a bowl and place the calamari in it to marinate for at least 5 minutes or up to 30 minutes.
3
Mix panko bread crumbs, salt, oregano, and black pepper in a bowl. Dredge the calamari in the mixture to coat it evenly.
4
Place the calamari on the lined tray and bake for 25 minutes until they turn golden brown.
5
Serve immediately.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Don't skip the lemon marinade: it tenderizes the squid and prevents rubbery texture while adding flavor.
Coat the calamari evenly in the breadcrumb mixture; pat gently so the coating adheres without clumping.
Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Serve immediately after baking; the coating stays crispest in the first 5 minutes out of the oven.

Substitutions

Panko breadcrumbs → regular breadcrumbs (less crispy)
Lemon juice → white wine or white vinegar (similar acidity and tenderness)
Oregano → Italian seasoning or dried basil (similar Mediterranean flavor)

Storage & make-ahead

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 180°C oven for 5–8 minutes to restore some crispness; microwaving will soften the coating.

Equipment

baking sheet · parchment paper

Common Questions

Can I fry this calamari instead of baking it?

Yes. The recipe title indicates both baking and frying are options, though the provided steps detail baking at 220°C for 25 minutes. Frying works with the same marinade and coating; adjust timing based on oil temperature.