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Crispy fried calamari tossed with zesty hot cherry peppers, garlic, and butter. This classic New England appetizer is a delightful mix of spicy, savory, and tangy flavors, perfect for sharing.
Prepare Calamari and Dredge
Fry the Calamari
Create the Garlic-Pepper Sauce
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Crispy fried calamari tossed with zesty hot cherry peppers, garlic, and butter. This classic New England appetizer is a delightful mix of spicy, savory, and tangy flavors, perfect for sharing.
This new_england recipe takes 30 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 545.1 calories per serving with 21.54g of protein, it's a moderately challenging recipe perfect for appetizer or snack.
Combine and Serve Immediately
For a milder version, use sweet banana peppers instead of hot cherry peppers. For extra heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the butter and garlic sauce.
Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh basil or oregano to the sauce along with the parsley for a more complex herbal note.
Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) after cooking the garlic and before adding the peppers for an extra layer of flavor.
For a less traditional, lighter version, you can try air frying the calamari. Toss the dredged calamari with a light spray of oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through. The texture will be less crispy than deep-fried.
Squid is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting muscle mass.
Calamari provides essential minerals like selenium, which acts as a powerful antioxidant, and copper, which is important for iron absorption and energy production.
It is a good source of several B vitamins, especially B12 and riboflavin (B2). These vitamins are crucial for nerve function, energy metabolism, and maintaining healthy skin and eyes.
A typical serving of this Rhode Island Calamari contains approximately 450-500 calories, primarily from the frying oil, flour coating, and butter. The exact amount can vary based on oil absorption and serving size.
While delicious, Rhode Island Calamari is considered an indulgence rather than a health food. It is high in calories, fat, and sodium due to being deep-fried. However, the squid itself is a good source of lean protein and minerals. It's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Yes, frozen calamari works well. Make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight. Before cooking, rinse it and pat it extremely dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks and it fries up crispy.
The key distinction of 'Rhode Island Style' is tossing the crispy fried calamari in a zesty sauce made with garlic, butter, and pickled hot cherry peppers (and a splash of their brine). Traditional fried calamari is typically served plain with a dipping sauce like marinara or aioli on the side.
The secret is a very hot and very fast cooking process. Fry the calamari in oil that is at 375°F (190°C) for only 2-3 minutes. Any longer, and the proteins in the squid will tighten up, resulting in a rubbery texture.
This dish is best made and served immediately. The crispy coating will become soggy if it sits for too long or is refrigerated and reheated. For best results, have all your ingredients ready and fry just before you plan to serve.