Jul 17 2026
RestaurantsPARA CharlotteCrispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Inspired by PARA Charlotte
Time30m
Serves4

wild-caught Rhode Island calamari lightly battered with peppers served with house lemon aioli

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Ingredients

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Crispy Calamari

Method

Preparation and Cooking

  1. 1

    Prepare the Battering Mixture

    In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

  2. 2

    Coat the Calamari

    Add the calamari rings to the batter mixture and toss until they are evenly coated.

  3. 3

    Heat the Oil

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

  4. 4

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, frying until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Do not overcrowd the pan.

  5. 5

    Add the Peppers

    In the last minute of frying, add the sliced red and green bell peppers to the oil to fry alongside the calamari.

  6. 6

    Drain and Serve

    Remove the fried calamari and peppers with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with house lemon aioli on the side.

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