Fried Calamari

Fried Calamari

1 lb. fresh, cleaned squid with tentacles (should be sliced into rings)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp. dried parsley
1 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. cayenne pepper
Salt (to taste)
Pepper (to taste)
Garlic Powder (to taste)
Vegetable oil (*Enough to fill up to 3" in the frying pan)
1 lemon (cut into 2 wedges)

Heat oil to 375 degrees in a frying pan (*Having a deep fryer for this dish would make life that much easier...:-). In a bowl combine flour, parsley, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Dip the calamari rings into the flour mixture, shake off excess flour and add to the frying pan, being careful not to splash hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel, squeeze the lemon wedge juice over the calamari and serve hot.

*Johnna's tip: Whip up your favorite marinara sauce (*recipe found on JKGF circa August 12, 2008 "Meatless, Homemade Spaghetti Made Easy"...) and use as a dip for the calamari. Tartar sauce is also delicious with this seafood delicacy (*recipe found on JKGF March 31, 2008 "Tar-tar Sauce"). And you could sprinkle on top some fresh chopped parsley if serving as an appetizer to guests. Let us know how it comes out!

Picture source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Fried_calamari.jpg