Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Fresh or Frozen Calamari (tubes & tentacles), cleaned, rinsed, and patted very dry
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 Tbsp Unsalted Butter, divided use
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil (high smoke point)
  • 4 cloves Garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup Dry White Wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio)
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 Lemon, freshly squeezed juice
  • 1 Tbsp Smoked Paprika (for seasoning)
  • 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 tsp Coarse Salt (Kosher)
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Instructions:

  1. Mix the Cajun Spice Blend: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  2. Prep the Calamari: Ensure calamari is thoroughly dry. Place flour in a shallow dish. Toss the calamari lightly in the flour until barely coated, shaking off excess. Season half of the Cajun spice mix over the floured calamari and toss gently.
  3. Heat the Pan: Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high to high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil. Wait until the fat shimmers and is nearly smoking.
  4. Sear in Batches: Add half of the calamari to the hot pan in a single layer. Do not overcrowd. Cook undisturbed for 60–90 seconds until nicely browned on the underside. Toss quickly and cook for another 30–60 seconds until opaque. Total cook time per batch should not exceed 2 minutes. Remove immediately to a clean plate.
  5. Aromatics and Deglaze: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pan. When melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, and let it bubble rapidly for 30 seconds.
  6. Combine & Finish: Return all the cooked calamari to the pan. Toss everything together quickly, remove from the heat immediately. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the calamari, then sprinkle with the remaining half of the Cajun Spice Blend and the fresh parsley. Toss once more and serve immediately.