Quick answer
Pat the calamari steaks very dry, season them, and cook them in a hot, lightly oiled pan for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, so 2 to 4 minutes in total. Squid turns rubbery when it cooks past that point, so the goal is a fast, hot sear and then straight to the plate.
What are calamari steaks?
A calamari steak is a large piece of squid, usually from the mantle, that has been tenderized and flattened. They are sold frozen in many grocery stores and fish counters. They are mild in flavor, cook quickly, and can be cooked plain or breaded. Some are sold already scored or pounded; if yours are not, you can score them lightly yourself.
Prep: thaw, dry and score
- Thaw. If the steaks are frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator, usually overnight, or follow the package directions.
- Pat dry. Use paper towels on both sides. Dry surfaces brown instead of steaming.
- Score lightly. Cut a shallow cross-hatch pattern on one side. This helps keep the steak from curling in the pan and helps it cook evenly. Do not cut deeply.
- Season. Salt, pepper and a squeeze of lemon later are enough.
Method 1: plain pan-seared calamari steaks
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high to high heat and add a tablespoon or two of olive oil, or a mix of oil and butter.
- When the oil is shimmering, add the steaks in a single layer. Cook in batches if the pan is crowded, because crowding drops the temperature and releases moisture.
- Sear for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, until opaque and lightly golden.
- Transfer to a plate right away and finish with lemon juice and parsley.
Method 2: breaded and pan-fried
- Set out three shallow dishes: flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned).
- Dip each steak in flour, then egg, then press firmly into the crumbs on both sides.
- Heat oil, or oil and butter, in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden and crisp. One home recipe cooks them 2 minutes per side on high heat.
- Drain briefly on paper towels or a wire rack.
Lemon caper pan sauce
After removing the steaks, keep them warm under foil and use the same pan for a quick sauce:
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add about 1/2 cup of lemon juice and 1/2 cup of white wine (reduce the amounts for a milder sauce).
- Simmer briefly, around 30 seconds, then add 1 tablespoon of drained capers and a little chopped parsley.
- Whisk in another 2 tablespoons of butter off the heat, and season to taste.
- Spoon over the calamari steaks.
Why calamari gets rubbery
Squid is lean and has a short window where it is tender. Cooked very briefly over high heat, it stays soft. Cooked a little too long, it tightens and turns chewy. Very long, gentle cooking, such as braising for 30 minutes or more, can make it tender again, but that is a different technique than pan searing. For the pan method, use high heat, dry surfaces, a short time and a hot pan.
Serving ideas
Serve with lemon wedges, garlic butter (see how to cook garlic on the stove without burning it), aioli, marinara or tartar sauce. Calamari steaks go well with a simple salad, roasted broccolini, rice grits, or pasta. If you enjoy fried shellfish, you might also like our guide to cooking frozen breaded oysters.
FAQ
How do you cook calamari tentacles in a pan?
Tentacles are small and cook very fast. Dry them well and sear for a minute or two over high heat, or briefly braise them if you want a softer texture. Do not leave them in the pan long.
Is calamari steak healthy?
Calamari is low in fat and a source of protein when cooked simply. Breading and frying adds calories and fat, so pan-searing with a modest amount of oil is lighter. If you have a shellfish allergy or dietary restrictions, check with a medical professional.
How are you supposed to eat calamari?
Calamari steaks are eaten like any fish or meat steak, cut with a knife and fork, with lemon and a sauce for dipping or spooning.
Can I cook calamari steaks from frozen?
Thawing first gives more even results and lets you pat the surface dry. Follow the package guidance if it says otherwise.