Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSaints On 2nd Bar and GrillFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Served with a side of marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Prepare the Marinara Sauce

  1. 1

    Cook Garlic

    In a saucepan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

  2. 2

    Add Tomatoes and Spices

    Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.

  3. 3

    Simmer the Sauce

    Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the chopped fresh basil just before serving.

Prepare the Fried Calamari

  1. 4

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

  2. 5

    Coat Calamari

    In another bowl, dip the cleaned and sliced calamari into the beaten egg. Then, dredge the calamari in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

  3. 6

    Heat Oil for Frying

    In a deep skillet or pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 375°F (190°C). You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small piece of batter into it; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.

  4. 7

    Fry the Calamari

    Fry the coated calamari in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

  5. 8

    Serve

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

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