Fried Calamari with Tzatziki

There’s something irresistible about crispy fried calamari paired with a cool, refreshing dip. When you add tzatziki, the creamy, tangy cucumber yogurt sauce that’s a staple of Greek cuisine, the combination becomes a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer you’ll crave again and again.

The calamari is the star of this dish – tender, lightly battered, and golden brown, with just the right amount of crunch. The key to perfect fried calamari is in the batter: light, crispy, and seasoned with just enough salt and pepper to complement the sweet, delicate flavor of the squid. When fried to perfection, each piece is a satisfying contrast of crispy exterior and tender interior.

What really makes this dish special is the tzatziki. The cool, creamy yogurt is balanced with the freshness of cucumber, a touch of garlic, and a hint of lemon, making it the perfect dip to cut through the richness of the fried calamari. The tangy flavors of the tzatziki pair beautifully with the calamari, enhancing its natural sweetness while adding a burst of freshness.

This dish is perfect as an appetizer for a Mediterranean meal or as a light main course. It’s ideal for summer gatherings or cozy evenings at home when you want something flavorful but not too heavy. The crispy calamari and creamy tzatziki are also perfect for sharing, making it a crowd-pleaser at dinner parties or casual get-togethers.

You can elevate this dish by serving it with a side of fresh greens or a lemon wedge for an extra burst of flavor. For those who love a bit of heat, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of paprika can add an extra kick.

Fried Calamari with Tzatziki is simple, delicious, and the perfect way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Crispy, tender, and creamy – what’s not to love?

Fried Calamari with Tzatziki

3.77 from 190 votes

Delicious fried calamari served with homemade tzatziki sauce.

Servings 4 people

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

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Ingredients

  

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• 1 pound calamari cleaned and sliced into rings
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• vegetable oil for frying
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber grated and squeezed dry
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice fresh
• 1 tbsp dill chopped fresh
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
• Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
• Dip the calamari rings into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess, and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
• Fry the calamari until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
• Transfer the fried calamari to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
• In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well to make tzatziki sauce.
• Serve the fried calamari with tzatziki sauce on the side.
• Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 7gFiber: 2g

Calories: 300kcal

Meal Type: Dinner

Cuisine: Greek

Keyword: Calamari, greek cuisine, Tzatziki

Cooking Method: Fried

Diet: Paleo, Pescatarian

Time: <30 Min

Level: Easy

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