Jul 14 2026

Calamari Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

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

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Clean and Cut Calamari

    Rinse the calamari under cold water. Remove the outer skin and cut the bodies into rings. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Prepare Breading Station

    In one bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

  3. 3

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip the calamari rings into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat them in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure they stick. Set aside on a plate.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large, deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Fry the calamari in batches for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Keep warm.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 6

    Sauté Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  2. 7

    Prepare Sauce

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

  3. 8

    Simmer Sauce

    Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.

  4. 9

    Finish Sauce

    Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh basil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

More from ZAZA Italian Gastrobar