Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Leo's Ristorante›Calamari Fritti Recipe

Calamari Fritti Recipe

Inspired by Leo's Ristorante
Time30m
Serves4

Fried calamari served with marinara sauce

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Marinara Sauce

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Clean the Calamari

    Rinse the fresh calamari under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the calamari bodies into rings and leave the tentacles whole.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Breading

    In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Heat the Oil

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

  4. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Toss the calamari rings and tentacles in the breading mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari to the hot oil in small batches. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 6

    Cook the Sauce

    In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, but not browned, about 1 minute.

  2. 7

    Add Tomatoes and Season

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, sugar, and half of the fresh basil leaves. Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. 8

    Finish the Sauce

    Remove from heat and stir in the remaining fresh basil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

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