Fried calamari balls

Fried calamari balls

Appetizer

Item Rating: 65/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 250 calories, 10.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 20.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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595.2
calories
23.8
protein
47.6
carbohydrates
35.7
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)
Calories
595.2
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 35.7 g 45%
Saturated Fat 7.1 g 35%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 119.0 mg 39%
Sodium 952.4 mg 41%
Total Carbohydrates 47.6 g 17%
Dietary Fiber 2.4 g 8%
Sugars 2.4 g
protein 23.8 g 47%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 71.4 mg 5%
Iron 3.6 mg 20%
Potassium 357.1 mg 7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar
⚠️ Contains trans fat

Source of Calories

31.4%
15.7%
52.9%
Fat: 321 cal (52.9%)
Protein: 95 cal (15.7%)
Carbs: 190 cal (31.4%)

About Fried calamari balls

Fried calamari balls are a popular dish derived from squid, commonly found in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines. These bite-sized, crispy appetizers are made by shaping seasoned, ground squid into small balls, coating them in breadcrumbs, and deep-frying until golden brown. Squid is a rich source of high-quality protein and contains essential nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus. However, the frying process may increase calorie and fat content, making portion control an essential consideration. Typically served with dipping sauces or salads, fried calamari balls offer a savory seafood experience with a crunch.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in protein (15-20 grams per 100g of squid), which supports muscle repair and growth.
  • Contains vitamin B12 (about 25% of the daily value in 100g), essential for nerve function and red blood cell production.
  • High in selenium (20-45 mcg per 100g), a powerful antioxidant that supports immunity and thyroid health.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains shellfish, gluten, eggs (if used in the coating)
Suitable for: Pescatarian
Not suitable for: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free diet (unless gluten-free breadcrumbs are used)

Selection and Storage

Store cooked calamari balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Common Questions About Fried calamari balls Nutrition

Is fried calamari high in protein?

Fried calamari is relatively high in protein, offering about 15-20 grams of protein per 100 grams, depending on the recipe. However, the frying process adds extra calories and fat, so it’s less lean compared to grilled or baked calamari.

Can I eat fried calamari balls on a keto diet?

Fried calamari balls are not ideal for a strict keto diet because they are often breaded with flour or breadcrumbs, which are high in carbohydrates. You can make a keto-friendly version by replacing traditional breading with almond flour or coconut flour.

Are there any health concerns with eating fried calamari balls?

Fried calamari balls are high in fat and calories due to the frying process, which may not be suitable for those monitoring their calorie or fat intake. Additionally, they can be high in sodium depending on the seasoning, so moderation is key for maintaining a balanced diet.

What is the recommended portion size for fried calamari balls?

A typical serving size of fried calamari balls is about 4-6 pieces (approximately 100-120 grams), as this provides around 200-300 calories. Pairing it with a healthy salad or vegetables can create a more balanced meal.

How do fried calamari balls compare to grilled calamari in terms of health?

Fried calamari balls are higher in fat and calories due to the breading and frying process, while grilled calamari is lower in both and retains more natural nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. If you’re looking for a healthier option, grilled or baked calamari is a better choice.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.