Best Calamari Steak Sandwich Recipe (Crispy & Delicious)

I’ve been a chef for over a decade and I know how much a good sandwich can make a meal unforgettable.

The calamari steak sandwich is one of my personal favorites; crispy breaded calamari, a drizzle of lemon butter sauce, and fresh ingredients piled into a fluffy bun.

If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll love how tender calamari can transform into a crispy, flavorful sandwich that will keep your taste buds craving more.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 calamari steaks
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tbsp drained capers
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp white wine
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
• 4 fluffy sandwich buns
• 4-5 pickles, for garnish
• Hot sauce, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Calamari Steaks

Start by tenderizing the calamari steaks. Use a mallet or the back of a spoon to gently pound the steaks to tenderize them. Once done, season them with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Set aside.

Step 2: Bread the Calamari

Next, set up a breading station. First, coat each calamari steak in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip them in the beaten egg and coat thoroughly with a mix of bread crumbs and panko breadcrumbs. This will give the calamari a crispy and golden coating once fried.

Step 3: Pan-Fry the Calamari

Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded calamari steaks into the pan. Fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the pan and place on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Caper Sauce

In the same pan, melt a bit of butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add white wine, lemon juice, and drained capers. Stir to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich

Cut your fluffy sandwich buns in half and lightly toast them in the pan. Place a crispy calamari steak on the bottom half of each bun. Spoon over the lemon caper sauce and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. Add pickles for a tangy crunch and drizzle a bit of hot sauce if you like a little heat. Top with the other half of the bun.

Recipe Notes

• Tenderizing is key: Pounding the calamari helps break down tough fibers, making it more tender.
• Use fresh calamari steaks: Fresh seafood makes all the difference in this recipe.
• Don’t skip the paper towel step: After frying, let the calamari rest on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
• Feel free to add more spice: Add hot sauce or chili flakes if you enjoy more heat.
• Pickles are optional but add a nice tang: Adding pickles will elevate the flavors of the sandwich, balancing the rich lemon butter sauce.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbs: 40g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg

Secret Tips for Making the Best Calamari Steak Sandwich

As someone who’s perfected this sandwich over the years, I’ve picked up a few secrets that can really take your calamari steak sandwich to the next level. Here are my top tips to ensure you get the crispiest, most flavorful sandwich every time.

• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crunchier texture than regular bread crumbs.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the calamari in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Don’t skip the lemon caper sauce: It adds a fresh, tangy finish to the rich flavors of the fried calamari.
• Go easy on the salt: Since capers are salty, be mindful when adding salt to the calamari.
• Rest the calamari on paper towels: This helps remove any excess oil, keeping your sandwich crispy and not greasy.

"A good sandwich is all about balance; crispy, juicy, tangy, and fresh. When you nail those, you’ve got a meal that’s unforgettable."

- Gordon Ramsay, Chef

How to Pick the Best Calamari for This Recipe

When choosing calamari steaks for your sandwich, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Look for fresh or frozen seafood: Fresh is always best, but high-quality frozen seafood from the frozen seafood section works great too.
2. Check for tenderness: Tender calamari makes for the best sandwiches. If it's too tough, the sandwich will not have that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
3. Choose medium-sized calamari steaks: Larger steaks can be tough, while smaller steaks may not hold up well in the breading.
4. Avoid pre-breaded calamari: You want to control the breading for better texture and flavor.
5. Smell it: Fresh calamari should have a mild, clean ocean scent, not a strong fishy odor.

Best Side Dishes to Serve With

When I make this calamari steak sandwich at home, I love pairing it with a few fresh sides. Here are my top picks:

1. Crispy French Fries

Golden, crispy fries complement the sandwich perfectly. The soft inside of the fry pairs nicely with the crunchy calamari. I love to season them with a bit of sea salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

If you want a unique twist, you can try seasoning them with garlic powder or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra boost of flavor.

2. Coleslaw

A tangy coleslaw is a great contrast to the rich sandwich. The crunchiness and creaminess of the slaw balance out the dish, providing a light, refreshing bite. I like to make mine with a base of mayo and a touch of vinegar, along with shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions.

If you want to switch it up, try adding some chopped apples or raisins for a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fried calamari.

3. Garlic Butter Roasted Vegetables

Roast some seasonal vegetables with garlic and butter for a flavorful side. I recommend using a mix of carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, all drizzled in a little olive oil, minced garlic, and a dash of salt and pepper.

Rasting them in the oven brings out their natural sweetness while the garlic butter adds richness, making for a perfect pairing with the sandwich's crispy calamari.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn brings a smoky sweetness to the meal. The charred kernels give a great flavor contrast to the calamari's crispy texture. I like to brush the corn with a bit of butter, sprinkle some salt, and grill until slightly charred.

For a bit of zest, you can squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top and dust it with chili powder for a kick. This side is perfect for a casual summer meal.

5. Simple Garden Salad

A light salad with fresh greens and a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing element that lightens the whole meal. The crispness of lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes balances the richness of the calamari.

I love adding a handful of arugula or spinach for some peppery flavor. You can also sprinkle a bit of feta cheese or some toasted pine nuts for an extra layer of texture. This salad provides a fresh contrast to the warm and crispy sandwich, rounding out the meal nicely.

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