Calamari Fritti Recipe
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
Marinara Sauce
Method
Calamari Preparation
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- 2
Mix the Coating
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- 3
Coat the Calamari
Dredge the calamari rings in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- 4
Heat the Oil
In a large heavy pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
- 5
Fry the Calamari
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated calamari rings in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pot.
- 6
Drain and Serve
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari and drain on paper towels. Keep warm while you fry the remaining batches.
Marinara Sauce Preparation
- 7
- 8
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- 9
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 10
Finish with Basil
Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving. Adjust seasoning to taste.