Crispy Calamari recipe served on a plate, by Gita Pita
Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsGita PitaCrispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Gita Pita
Time45m
Serves4

Served with a zesty marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Crispy Calamari

Zesty Marinara Sauce

Method

Crispy Calamari

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

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

  2. 2

    Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

  3. 3

    Prepare the Breading Station

    In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. In another shallow dish, place breadcrumbs.

  4. 4

    Bread the Calamari

    Dredge each calamari ring in the flour mixture, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then coat it in breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is well-coated.

  5. 5

    Heat the Oil

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

  6. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the breaded calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, frying them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

  7. 7

    Drain and Serve

    Remove the fried calamari from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot.

Zesty Marinara Sauce

  1. 8

    Heat the Olive Oil

    In a saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil.

  2. 9

    Sauté the Garlic

    Add minced garlic cloves to the olive oil and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. 10

    Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and sugar. Stir to combine.

  4. 11

    Simmer the Sauce

    Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. 12

    Adjust Seasoning

    Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as necessary. Remove from heat and keep warm until serving.

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