Mouthwatering Seafood Recipes to Make This Summer

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Fried Calamari

This fried calamari recipe delivers perfectly crispy, golden rings of calamari that are deliciously seasoned with a blend of spices. Quick and easy to prepare, these calamari rings are dipped in buttermilk, coated with a seasoned flour mixture, and then fried to perfection.

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

• 1½ lb calamari, cleaned and cut into rings
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Marinara sauce or aioli, for dipping

Instructions:

1. Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Pour the buttermilk into another bowl. Dip the calamari rings into the buttermilk, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Remove the calamari rings from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Toss them in the flour mixture until well-coated. Shake off any excess flour mixture.
5. In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
6. Working in batches, carefully place the coated calamari rings into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 min. or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking.
7. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried calamari to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Season with a little extra salt while they are still hot.
8. Serve the fried calamari hot with lemon wedges and a side of marinara sauce or aioli for dipping. Enjoy!