Jul 14 2026

Calamari Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Fried calamari served with marinara sauce.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Calamari

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Clean the Calamari

    Rinse the fresh calamari under cold water, remove the skin, and cut into rings about 1/2 inch thick.

  2. 2

    Soak in Buttermilk

    Place the calamari rings in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

  3. 3

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

  4. 4

    Coat Calamari

    After soaking, remove the calamari rings from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge them in the flour mixture until well coated.

  5. 5

    Heat Oil

    In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  6. 6

    Fry Calamari

    Fry the calamari in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 7

    Cook Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

  2. 8

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Bring to a simmer.

  3. 9

    Simmer Sauce

    Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

  4. 10

    Finish with Basil

    Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.

More from Augustino's Italian Eatery and Prime Steaks