Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsAzzurra Cucina ItalianaFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Lightly breaded calamari served with marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Make the Breading

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

  3. 3

    Prepare the Egg Mixture

    In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.

  4. 4

    Bread the Calamari

    Dip each calamari ring into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat with the flour mixture. Place on a baking sheet.

Frying the Calamari

  1. 5

    Heat the Oil

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

  2. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the breaded calamari rings to the hot oil in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  3. 7

    Drain the Calamari

    Using a slotted spoon, remove the calamari from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 8

    Sauté the Onion and Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

  2. 9

    Cook the Sauce

    Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. 10

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves just before serving.

Serving

  1. 11

    Serve the Dish

    Plate the fried calamari and serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

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