Calamari Recipe
Fried squid served with a spicy 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.
For the Calamari
For the Spicy Marinara Sauce
Method
Preparing the Calamari
- 1
Prepare the Squid
Rinse the cleaned squid under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- 2
Make the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well to combine.
- 3
Soak in Buttermilk
Pour the buttermilk over the squid rings, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
Frying the Calamari
- 4
- 5
Coat the Squid
Remove the squid rings from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Toss them in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- 6
Fry the Squid
Carefully add the coated squid rings to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Making the Spicy Marinara Sauce
- 7
- 8
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 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 9
Finish with Basil
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving
- 10
Plate the Calamari
Serve the fried calamari hot with a side of the spicy marinara sauce for dipping.