Fried Calamari (Calamari Fritti)

Squid is a very popular food in Italy, and it comes in many shapes and sizes with many different names: calamari, calamaretti, totani, and seppie.

Calamari are small squid, and when they are served battered and fried, they are one of the most classic Italian summer seafood dishes. These are crisp golden rings of tender squid that people eagerly squeeze lemon wedges over and then quickly eat them while they're still hot—and before everyone else gobbles them up.

It's important to buy very fresh squid and to fry it quickly at high heat to prevent the squid, which is naturally meltingly tender, from becoming tough and rubbery. Cooking calamari for just the right amount of time is important for attaining the desired texture.

Calamari are usually served quite simply with just lemon wedges and a light sprinkling of sea salt. However, you can also serve them with a dipping sauce, such as cocktail sauce, garlicky aioli, a simple tomato sauce, or spicy ketchup.

This recipe would pair well with wines, such as a dry white wine, a rosé, or Aperol spritzes, for a lovely summertime antipasto or aperitivo. It's also great finger food for a cocktail party. Although it looks impressive, it's actually super quick and simple to make.