Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsPacino's Italian RestaurantFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Crispy, golden-fried calamari, tender on the inside and perfectly crisp on the outside. Served with a side of our zesty, spicy marinara sauce for dipping.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Preparing the Marinara Sauce

  1. 1

    Cook Garlic

    In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

  2. 2

    Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

  3. 3

    Simmer Sauce

    Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

  4. 4

    Finish Sauce

    Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley for garnish. Set aside.

Preparing the Fried Calamari

  1. 5

    Prepare the Oil

    In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).

  2. 6

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.

  3. 7

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip calamari rings into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.

  4. 8

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully place a few pieces of coated calamari into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.

  5. 9

    Repeat Frying

    Continue frying the remaining calamari in batches, ensuring the oil temperature remains consistent.

  6. 10

    Serve

    Serve the fried calamari hot with the zesty marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

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