Description
Hot Butter Calamari is a quick and flavorful Mediterranean seafood appetizer featuring tender calamari rings sautéed in a rich blend of butter, olive oil, garlic, and chili, seasoned with paprika and lemon juice for a zesty finish. Perfectly cooked to be tender without becoming rubbery, this dish is garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges, ideal for a delicious starter or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Calamari
- 1 pound calamari rings (cleaned and thawed if frozen)
Cooking Fats
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Flavorings
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small red chili or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish & Serving
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Calamari: Pat the calamari rings dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, ensuring a better sear and texture during cooking.
- Heat Fats and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter along with the olive oil. When hot and melted, add the minced garlic and red chili or red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Calamari: Add the calamari rings in a single layer to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the calamari turn opaque and develop a slight golden color. Be careful not to overcook to avoid rubberiness.
- Season the Dish: Sprinkle the paprika over the calamari, then add the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together gently to coat the calamari evenly with the spices and lemon juice.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for additional tang.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of white wine during cooking.
- Serve this calamari dish over garlic rice or pasta for a complete meal.
- Substitute the red chili with cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to adjust the heat level.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
