Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsCatablu GrilleFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Catablu Grille
Time30m
Serves4

Lightly battered and fried calamari served with a spicy marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Prepare the Calamari

  1. 1

    Clean the Calamari

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

  2. 2

    Prepare the Battering Mixture

    In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

  3. 3

    Prepare the Wet Mixture

    In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined.

  4. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip each calamari ring into the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off, and then dredge in the dry batter mixture until fully coated.

Fry the Calamari

  1. 5

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).

  2. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  3. 7

    Drain

    Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried calamari to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Prepare the Spicy Marinara Sauce

  1. 8

    Sauté Garlic

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

  2. 9

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes.

  3. 10

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.

Serve

  1. 11

    Plate the Dish

    Serve the fried calamari hot on a platter, accompanied by a bowl of spicy marinara sauce for dipping.

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