Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsNICO Kitchen + BarCalamari Recipe

Calamari Recipe

Inspired by NICO Kitchen + Bar
Time45m
Serves4

Fried calamari served with marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Calamari

  1. 1

    Prepare Calamari

    Clean and cut the calamari into rings. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Make the Breading

    In a bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

  3. 3

    Prepare Egg Mixture

    In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well combined.

  4. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip each calamari ring into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat with the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.

  5. 5

    Heat the Oil

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

  6. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Fry the calamari in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Marinara Sauce

  1. 7

    Sauté Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

  2. 8

    Combine Ingredients

    Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and sugar to the saucepan.

  3. 9

    Simmer the Sauce

    Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. 10

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving. Adjust seasoning to taste.

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