Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Brick-Wood Fired EatsFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Bleu cheese crumbles, baby arugula, house chili oil drizzle, basil marinara dipping sauce

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Basil Marinara Dipping Sauce

Method

Preparing the Calamari

  1. 1

    Coat the Calamari

    In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the calamari rings in the flour mixture until fully coated.

  2. 2

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can check the temperature by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil; it should sizzle.

  3. 3

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Making the Basil Marinara Dipping Sauce

  1. 4

    Sauté Garlic

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

  2. 5

    Simmer the Sauce

    Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dry basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Allow to cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Plating

  1. 6

    Serve the Dish

    On a serving platter, arrange a bed of baby arugula. Place the fried calamari on top, then sprinkle with bleu cheese crumbles. Drizzle with house chili oil and serve alongside the basil marinara dipping sauce.

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