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Calamari Fritti

Crispy fried squid rings with a tender interior, seasoned simply with salt and lemon. A classic Italian appetizer that's ready in minutes.

Total time
20 min
Servings
4
Calories
285
Protein
24g
Calamari Fritti
italianseafoodappetizerfriedquick

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Clean squid by removing the head and tentacles from the body. Pull out the transparent quill from inside the body. Rinse thoroughly under cold water.

  2. Step 2

    Pat squid completely dry with paper towels. Cut the body into 0.25-inch rings. Leave tentacles whole or cut larger ones in half.

  3. Step 3

    Combine flour, sea salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl.

  4. Step 4

    Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to 375°F, measured with a thermometer.

  5. Step 5

    Working in batches, coat squid pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Do not crowd the pot.

  6. Step 6

    Carefully add coated squid to hot oil. Fry for 1.5 to 2 minutes until golden brown and crispy, stirring gently.

  7. Step 7

    Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon. Repeat with remaining squid.

  8. Step 8

    Serve immediately while hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over top.

Tools you’ll need

  • paring knife
  • cutting board
  • paper towels
  • shallow bowl
  • large heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet
  • deep-fry thermometer
  • slotted spoon
  • paper towel-lined plate

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