Save Fresh calamari rings are soaked in milk and salt to tenderize, then coated in a seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture. Deep-fried until golden and crisp, these calamari rings are served with a warm, flavorful marinara sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley, this dish balances crunchy textures with zesty, herbaceous dipping, perfect for a shareable starter or light seafood snack.
I still remember the first time I made crispy fried calamari; the sound of sizzling oil filled the kitchen and the aroma of garlic and herbs instantly made me feel at home. It quickly became a favorite after that evening.
One evening, unexpected guests arrived and I only had minutes to prepare a snack. This calamari recipe came through perfectly, impressing everyone with its crunch and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Calamari: Always use fresh, cleaned rings about 1/2 inch thick for that perfect tender bite.
- Whole Milk: Soaking calamari in milk tenderizes it beautifully.
- Flour and Cornmeal: The cornmeal is optional but gives an extra satisfying crunch.
- Spices: Paprika and a touch of cayenne give subtle warmth without overpowering.
- Olive Oil & Garlic: Essential for a rich, aromatic marinara sauce.
Instructions
- Soak and Season:
- Start by soaking your calamari rings in whole milk sprinkled with salt. The texture softens and it readies them for the crispy coating to come.
- Create the Breading Mix:
- Mix flour, cornmeal if you like extra crunch, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper in a shallow dish. The colors and smells already hint at the flavor punch that awaits.
- Heat the Oil:
- Bring your oil to 180°C (350°F). You’ll hear a gentle bubbling when it’s ready, the perfect sign to start frying.
- Prepare the Marinara:
- Lightly sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Dry and Coat the Calamari:
- Drain the soaked calamari well and pat dry. Dredge each ring in the breading mix, shaking off excess to ensure even crisping.
- Fry to Perfection:
- Cook the calamari in batches for 1 to 2 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden color and the kitchen fills with that irresistible fried aroma. Avoid overcrowding so each piece crisps evenly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Drain on paper towels, plate immediately with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and a bowl of warm marinara for dipping. The satisfying crunch and zesty sauce are a match made in heaven.
Save This dish quickly became more than just food; it’s the centerpiece of celebrations, a comfort during cozy nights, and a reason for friends to gather around the table with smiles.
Keeping It Fresh
Using fresh calamari is key, but if you find yourself with frozen, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator for best texture. Patting it dry really helps the breading stick better and keeps the frying crisp.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Besides marinara, I’ve enjoyed this calamari tossed with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Try it with a simple arugula salad to lighten the plate.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
Last-minute party? This recipe is my go-to because it comes together fast, fills everyone up, and I can almost guarantee it’ll disappear quickly.
- Don’t forget to have plenty of napkins ready—things get deliciously messy here.
- Oh wait one more thing: keep oil temperature steady for the best results.
- Always let the calamari rest briefly on paper towels to keep that crunch perfect.
Save Thanks for cooking along—may your kitchen be filled with laughter, crispy bites, and stories worth sharing. Until next time!
Questions & Answers
- → How do you ensure calamari stays tender when cooking?
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Soaking calamari rings in milk with salt for about 10 minutes helps tenderize them before coating and frying.
- → What ingredients add extra crunch to the coating?
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Using a blend of all-purpose flour and fine cornmeal enhances the crispy texture of the fried calamari.
- → What temperature is ideal for frying calamari?
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The oil should be heated to 180°C (350°F) to fry calamari quickly without becoming greasy or tough.
- → How is the marinara sauce prepared for dipping?
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Simmer olive oil, garlic, crushed tomatoes, oregano, and seasonings together for 10–15 minutes to develop a fresh, zesty flavor.
- → Can this dish accommodate gluten-free diets?
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Yes, substituting the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour in the coating can make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
