Lemon Caper Calamari Steaks

Lemon Caper Calamari Steaks are a delightful and flavorful seafood dish. The calamari is pan-seared until golden brown, then topped with a zesty lemon-caper sauce that elevates the entire dish. The combination of lemon, capers, and herbs makes it incredibly refreshing and the perfect balance of savory and tangy.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Caper Calamari Steaks

• Light & Fresh: The zesty lemon and briny capers create a refreshing, bright flavor.
• Quick & Easy: It only takes around 20 minutes to make this dish—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
• Low-Carb & Healthy: Calamari is a great source of lean protein and low in calories, making this a healthier alternative to fried seafood.
• Impressive & Elegant: This dish looks elegant on the plate, making it perfect for dinner parties or special meals.

Ingredients

For the calamari steaks:

• 4 large calamari steaks, thawed if frozen
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the lemon-caper sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Calamari Steaks

1. Pat the calamari steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help them sear properly.
2. Season both sides of the calamari steaks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Calamari Steaks

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the calamari steaks to the skillet. Sear the steaks for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The calamari should be firm and opaque, not rubbery.
3. Remove the calamari steaks from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Lemon-Caper Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the white wine (if using) to the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the wine to cook off for about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and capers. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Return the calamari steaks to the skillet and coat them in the lemon-caper sauce.
2. Spoon the sauce over the steaks to evenly coat them and heat through for about 1-2 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Lemon Caper Calamari Steaks hot, garnished with extra lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal!

Notes

• Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version of the sauce.
• Grilled Calamari: You can also grill the calamari steaks instead of pan-searing them for a smoky flavor.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 22g

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the ingredients used.)

Conclusion

Lemon Caper Calamari Steaks are a refreshing, light, and flavorful seafood dish that will impress your guests or provide a quick and healthy dinner option. The zesty lemon and briny capers complement the tender calamari perfectly, creating a delicious balance of flavors. This dish is simple to make yet sophisticated enough for any occasion!