Calamari Recipe
Crispy fried calamari served with marinara.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Calamari
Marinara Sauce
Method
Calamari Preparation
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- 2
Make the Breading Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- 3
Drench in Buttermilk
Place the calamari rings in another bowl and pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- 4
Coat with Breading
Remove each calamari ring from the buttermilk and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- 5
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- 7
Drain and Serve
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Marinara Sauce Preparation
- 8
- 9
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- 10
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 11
Add Fresh Basil
If using, stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.
