Calamari Recipe
Fried calamari served with marinara sauce.
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
Fried Calamari
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and calamari rings. Allow the calamari to soak in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to tenderize.
- 2
Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
- 3
Heat Oil
In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or a deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- 4
Coat the Calamari
Remove the calamari from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the calamari rings in the flour mixture, ensuring they are completely coated.
- 5
Fry the Calamari
Carefully add the coated calamari to the hot oil in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
- 6
Drain and Serve
Remove the fried calamari with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with marinara sauce.
Marinara Sauce
- 7
- 8
Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
- 9
Simmer the Sauce
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 10
Serve
Once the sauce is ready, remove it from heat and serve it warm alongside the fried calamari.