Jul 17 2026
RestaurantsNanaSteakCrispy Fried Calamari Recipe

Crispy Fried Calamari Recipe

Inspired by NanaSteak
Time40m
Serves4

With Crispy Shishito Peppers, Arugula, Housemade Tartar 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 Crispy Fried Calamari

Method

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Tartar Sauce

    In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, diced pickles, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill.

  2. 2

    Prep the Calamari

    In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika. In another bowl, pour buttermilk over the calamari rings and let marinate for 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Coat the Calamari

    After marinating, drain the calamari rings and toss them in the flour mixture until well coated.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

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

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Fry the calamari in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  6. 6

    Fry the Shishito Peppers

    In the same oil, fry the shishito peppers for about 2 minutes until blistered. Remove and drain on paper towels.

  7. 7

    Serve

    On a plate, arrange the crispy calamari, fried shishito peppers, and fresh arugula. Serve with housemade tartar sauce on the side.

More from NanaSteak