What is Calamari?

What exactly is calamari? What is it made from?

Calamari is the culinary term for squid, a shellfish known for its firm texture and delicate taste. Calamari is especially popular in Mediterranean and Asian cooking, and it belongs to the mollusk family. These invertebrates lack a backbone.

What is Fried Calamari?

One of the most common ways to prepare calamari is by battering the squid rings, arms, and tentacles before deep-frying. Known as Calamares fritos in Spain, this dish is often served as part of a tapas assortment. In Rhode Island, deep-fried calamari is commonly paired with slices of pickled hot chili peppers for an extra kick.

What is Calamari Steak?

Calamari steak is made by slicing the calamari's body into flat, tender pieces. It's important to avoid overcooking calamari, as this can cause it to become tough and rubbery.

How Does Calamari Differ from Octopus?

What are the Benefits of Calamari?

When uncooked, calamari is low in saturated fat, high in protein, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. However, when fried and paired with dipping sauces like marinara sauce, the cholesterol and sodium levels can increase significantly. For a healthier option, consider alternative preparation methods such as broiling, baking, or roasting instead of frying.

What is Calamari in Squid Ink?

Calamares en su tinta is a traditional Spanish dish where calamari is simmered in its own blue ink, also known as squid ink. In Italian cuisine, squid ink is often used to give pasta a unique color and flavor.

Popular Calamari Recipes

Cory's Ultimate Calamari

'My mom used to make this dish all the time when I was growing up: crispy, deep-fried calamari,' says Cory Folchi. 'It's one of our family's all-time favorite meals—simple yet packed with flavor.'

Grilled Sausage-Stuffed Calamari

For this recipe, grilled calamari is filled with spicy Italian sausage, red bell pepper, fresh Italian parsley, onions, and a blend of spices. Let them rest in the fridge while you prepare the grill. 'The effort will definitely pay off with a dish full of incredible flavor,' says Chef John. 'Serve with lemon wedges for an extra zing.'

Maria's Paella

'This is the paella that your family and friends will keep asking you to make again,' says Desi Carrimko. 'It has the authentic taste of Spain and has been passed down through my family in Catalonia for generations. Enjoy!'

Calamari Marinara

'Calamari often gets a bad reputation for being hard to cook and for turning rubbery,' says Chef John. 'Here’s the trick: either cook it for just 45 seconds or let it simmer slowly for 45 minutes. For this marinara dish, I go with the long, slow simmer method.'

Zuppa Di Pesce Fra Di Avolo

'A classic Italian dish, best enjoyed with a glass of red wine and some Frank Sinatra playing in the background,' says Charles Anthony.

Warm Calamari Salad

This simple squid and arugula salad is delightful whether served warm or chilled. 'I didn’t get the perfect char on the calamari, but it was still a tasty and healthy lunch,' says Chef John. 'The leftovers were even better cold, tossed with the same salad ingredients.'

Salt and Pepper Calamari

'A crispy, fresh-tasting fried calamari, much like what you’d find at a popular Asian restaurant,' says Lindsayne.

Coconut Calamari Salad

'Not only did it turn into a fantastic Thai-inspired salad, but I also see this dish as being quite versatile,' says Chef John. 'It was delicious when served hot, and would be fantastic over rice with some of the reduced marinade. It would also be incredible over a fresh bed of crunchy greens. Just don’t skip the toasted coconut—it truly makes the dish shine.'

Explore our collection of Calamari Recipes.