Crispy Fried Seafood Platter with Lemon Herb Aioli
(Fritto Misto–Style)
This dish features lightly battered shrimp and calamari, fried until golden and crispy, then served with fresh lemon and a creamy herb aioli. It’s crunchy, savory, and perfect as a shared appetizer or main dish.
🦐 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the seafood
300 g shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
300 g squid (calamari), cleaned and sliced into rings
120 g all-purpose flour
60 g cornstarch
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Cold sparkling water (about 120–150 ml, as needed)
Vegetable oil, for frying
For garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
🥣 Lemon Herb Aioli
120 ml mayonnaise
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill or parsley
1 small garlic clove, grated
Salt and black pepper, to taste
🔪 Instructions
1. Prepare the seafood
Rinse shrimp and calamari under cold water.
Pat completely dry with paper towels (very important for crisp frying).
2. Make the batter
In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Gradually whisk in cold sparkling water until a light, pourable batter forms.
Keep the batter cold for best crispiness.
3. Fry the seafood
Heat oil in a deep pan or pot to 175–180°C (350–360°F).
Dip shrimp and calamari into the batter, letting excess drip off.
Fry in small batches for 2–3 minutes, until golden and crisp.
Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Season lightly with salt while hot.
4. Make the aioli
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
Chill for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
5. Serve
Arrange fried seafood on a large platter.
Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Serve immediately with lemon herb aioli on the side.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
As an appetizer with drinks
With fries or a fresh green salad
Perfect for sharing at parties
💡 Pro Tips
Keep oil temperature steady to avoid soggy coating.
Do not overcrowd the pan.
Sparkling water keeps the batter light and airy.
For extra crunch, replace half the flour with rice flour.
🌿 Flavor & Texture
Crispy, light coating
Tender seafood inside
Bright lemony finish
Creamy, herby dipping sauce