Description
This crispy pan-seared calamari steak is golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside. Lightly breaded with a flavorful mix of panko and parmesan, it’s quickly pan-fried for a delicate crunch. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a side of garlic aioli for a restaurant-quality seafood dish at home!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Calamari Steak:
- 2 calamari steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For Serving:
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup garlic aioli (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the calamari: Pat the calamari steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Set up the breading station: Place flour in one shallow dish. In another dish, beat the egg with water. In a third dish, mix panko and parmesan cheese.
- Bread the calamari: Dredge each calamari steak in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then coat evenly with the panko-parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat the pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cook the calamari: Place the steaks in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcooking to keep the calamari tender.
- Serve immediately: Transfer to a plate, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges and garlic aioli.
Notes
- Variations: Try adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for extra heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in an air fryer or oven.
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: PT6M
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: ~380 kcal
- Sugar: ~1g
- Sodium: ~520mg
- Fat: ~22g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~14g
- Trans Fat: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~24g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Protein: ~28g
- Cholesterol: ~160mg
Keywords: calamari steak, crispy calamari, pan-seared calamari, seafood recipe, quick dinner, Mediterranean seafood, Italian calamari, breaded calamari