Calamari that crispy tender rings of squid, is a popular appetizer at restaurants across North America. Its mild flavor and satisfying crunch make it an approachable entry point for seafood-lovers and landlubbers alike. Red Lobster has certainly embraced calamari, featuring not just one, but two versions of this preparation on menus. Let’s explore the details on ordering calamari at Red Lobster.
Two Styles of Calamari Appetizers
Yes, calamari is readily available on Red Lobster’s extensive seafood menu. Customers can choose between two cooking methods – traditional hand-breaded calamari or tempura-battered calamari.
The hand-breaded calamari showcases those iconic crunchy breadcrumb coated rings, served with both marinara and jalapeño ranch dipping sauces. This appetizer is priced at $13.49 in the U.S.
Meanwhile, the tempura calamari features a lighter, tempura-style batter on the squid and green beans, served with a lemon garlic aioli. In Canada, it’s listed at $14.49 on menus.
Both appetizer portions provide 3 to 4 servings, so it’s easy to pass around the table and share. In terms of nutrition, calamari rings do tend towards the higher calorie side, with 1000 to 1270 calories per order
Calamari Provides a Good Source of Lean Protein
Even though it’s fried, calamari can still offer some healthy benefits. The squid meat itself is low in fat and high in protein. A 3 oz portion provides around 20 grams of protein, comparable to a chicken breast.
The protein in calamari comes complete with all 9 essential amino acids our bodies need. The breading adds carbohydrates and a bit of fiber as well. So while fried, calamari ultimately gives a serving of lean protein in a palatable, appetizing package.
What Type of Squid is Used?
Red Lobster sources calamari rings and tentacles from several species of North Atlantic squid. The most common varieties used include:
- Long fin inshore squid
- Northern shortfin squid
- Atlantic mackerel squid
These smaller squid species are more sustainable and abundant than giant squids. Their meat also holds up well to frying compared to larger squid.
No matter what species it comes from, all the squid is responsibly wild-caught. Red Lobster aims to provide seafood that’s not only delicious, but ethical and eco-friendly too.
Preparation Methods Make a Difference
How the calamari is prepared impacts its finished texture and flavor. Traditional hand-breaded rings deliver a crispy, sturdy coating that stays crackly even when dunked in sauce. Seasoned flour and panko breadcrumbs create those signature crunchy golden morsels.
Meanwhile, tempura batter uses a lighter mixture of sparkling water, flour and eggs. After frying, this creates a delicate, lacy crust on the squid and veggies inside. Tempura offers a lighter breading alternative, while still providing some crispy contrast.
Dipping Sauce Options Complement the Fried Calamari
No appetizer calamari order is complete without dipping sauces for dunking. The sauces not only add flavor, but provide moisture and contrast to balance the fried exterior.
With hand-breaded calamari, tangy marinara and cool, creamy jalapeño ranch pair well with the hearty breading. For the tempura version, the lemon garlic aioli offers a bright citrus tang that cuts through the grease perfectly.
Don’t forget to ask for extra sauce when you order! The sauces help cut the richness, letting you enjoy more calamari.
Ways to Make Your Calamari Order Unique
Part of the fun of dining at Red Lobster is customizing your meal. Try these easy add-ons to make your calamari truly your own:
- Substitute cocktail sauce for marinara or aioli
- Add a side of garlic Parmesan sauce for dipping
- Top with fresh grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes
- Order an extra side of jalapeño ranch for dipping fries or fish
- Pair with a chilled Moscato or Sauvignon Blanc wine
With just a few tweaks, you can turn a standard appetizer into something crave-worthy and personalized to suit your tastes.
Availability and Prices Vary by Location
One thing to note is that prices for calamari may be slightly different depending on your location. Canada’s menu lists tempura calamari at $14.49, while the U.S. has hand-breaded for $13.49.
Ingredients shortages over the past couple years have occasionally left some restaurants without calamari. Be sure to call ahead if it’s a must-have item for your meal. Fried shrimp can always be substituted as a comparable appetizer option as well.
Calamari Retains Long-Lasting Popularity
While many menu items come and go, calamari remains a staple year after year. Its crowd-pleasing flavors and textures make it a reliable choice for seafood novices and connoisseurs alike.
Fried calamari provides a satisfying crunch that keeps customers coming back. Dipping into flavorful sauces only elevates the experience further. Though the preparation may vary between hand-breaded and tempura styles, calamari stays rooted as a favorite way to kick off any Red Lobster meal.
Calamari for starters T Red Lobsters
FAQ
How many calories are in red lobster calamari?
What is calamari made of?
What is red lobster crispy dragon shrimp?
What chain is red lobster part of?
Does Red Lobster have Calamari?
Calamari and veggies are not tasty and rather dry at Red Lobster. Swimming is an activity that gives us a serious case of the munchies afterward. Here’s where to go for a great swim AND great seafood.
How many calories are in Red Lobster’s peppercorn-Panko Calamari?
Red Lobster’s peppercorn-panko calamari weighs in at 990 calories with 76 grams of fat, 230 mg of cholesterol, and 3,410 mg of sodium. If you’re not sharing that appetizer, you’re getting roughly half a day’s worth of calories (based on a 2,000-calorie-a-day diet) and enough sodium for nearly a day and a half (via Eat This, Not That! ).
Does Red Lobster eat canned shrimp?
As a seafood chain, Red Lobster you already have the fish contracts, utilize them, and give the people what they deserve to eat! Canned shrimp being served at Red Lobster has not gone over well with customers. Red Lobster fans will be happy to know that not every dish is a health hazard
Does Red Lobster have a menu change?
Red Lobster doesn’t make major menu changes often, but they have increased prices due to higher-quality seafood. The menu varies by location. Red Lobster’s appetizers, like crispy dragon shrimp and lobster dip, are highly recommended and preferred over the entrées.