Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsPasta La FataFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Pasta La Fata
Time40m
Serves4

Crispy calamari served with marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Clean and rinse the calamari rings under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

  2. 2

    Set Up Breading Station

    In one bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

  3. 3

    Bread the Calamari

    Dip each calamari ring first into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

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

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the breaded calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  6. 6

    Drain and Serve

    Remove the fried calamari with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 7

    Heat the Olive Oil

    In a saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil and heat until shimmering.

  2. 8

    Sauté the Garlic

    Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

  3. 9

    Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes along with oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and sugar. Stir to combine.

  4. 10

    Simmer the Sauce

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

  5. 11

    Adjust Seasoning

    Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat.

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