Calamari Fritti

Ingredients

• Marinara sauce (for serving)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Vegetable oil (2 cups, for frying)
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Paprika (1/2 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Cornmeal (1/2 cup)
• All (purpose flour - 1 cup)
• Calamari (1 pound, cleaned and sliced into rings)

Instructions

1. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
3. Dip the calamari rings into the flour mixture, coating them evenly.
4. Shake off any excess flour and carefully drop the coated calamari into the hot oil.
5. Fry the calamari in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried calamari to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve the calamari fritti hot with lemon wedges and marinara sauce for dipping.