Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsYaYas Euro Bistro in Little RockCalamari "fritto" Recipe

Calamari "fritto" Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Agrodolce, gazpacho aioli, grilled lemon

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Agrodolce Sauce

Gazpacho Aioli

Grilled Lemon

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Clean and Cut Calamari

    Rinse the fresh calamari under cold water. Remove the beak and innards, then slice the body into rings about 1/2 inch thick.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Breading

    In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Heat Oil

    In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F).

  4. 4

    Bread the Calamari

    Toss the calamari rings in the flour mixture until well coated.

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Fry the coated calamari in batches in the hot oil for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Agrodolce Sauce Preparation

  1. 6

    Sauté the Vegetables

    In a saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and chopped red bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

  2. 7

    Add Sugar and Vinegar

    Stir in the sugar and red wine vinegar. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Gazpacho Aioli Preparation

  1. 8

    Make the Aioli

    In a bowl, whisk together the minced garlic and egg yolk until well combined. Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to create an emulsion.

  2. 9

    Add Veggies and Season

    Fold in the diced tomato and cucumber. Add lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix until smooth.

Grilled Lemon Preparation

  1. 10

    Grill the Lemon

    Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Place the lemon halves cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear and the lemon is slightly charred.

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