Neely's Fried Calamari Recipe

Name: Neely's Fried Calamari
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: Peanut oil, for frying; 1 cup yellow cornmeal; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoons dried parsley; 2 teaspoons salt, plus more for seasoning; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 pound fresh or frozen and thawed small calamari, cleaned and cut into 1/2-inch rings; Lemon wedges, for garnish; Sweet and Spicy Dipping Sauce, recipe follows; 1/4 cup peach preserves; 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce; Dash hot sauce; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Servings: persons

Peanut oil, for frying
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons dried parsley
2 teaspoons salt, plus more for seasoning
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pound fresh or frozen and thawed small calamari, cleaned and cut into 1/2-inch rings
Lemon wedges, for garnish
Sweet and Spicy Dipping Sauce, recipe follows
1/4 cup peach preserves
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
Dash hot sauce
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1
Preheat oil in a deep fryer to 375 degrees F.
2
In a large bowl add the cornmeal, flour, cayenne, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt and pepper.
3
Whisk together to combine.
4
Working in batches, toss the calamari into the dry mixture, shaking off the excess.
5
Carefully add to the hot oil, in batches, until lightly golden, about 1 minute per batch.
6
Remove to a paper towel lined sheet tray and immediately season with salt.
7
Transfer to a platter, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve with the Spicy Dipping Sauce.
8
Add all the ingredients to a serving bowl and whisk to combine.
9
Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

163

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 15 ingredients. The key ingredients include: Peanut oil, for frying, 1 cup yellow cornmeal, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and more.

Yes, Neely's Fried Calamari falls under the Seafood category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Neely's Fried Calamari

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions