Copycat Olive Garden Fried Calamari
This Copycat Olive Garden Fried Calamari recipe brings a beloved restaurant favorite into your kitchen with easy steps and simple ingredients. Calamari rings are marinated in milk, with pineapple for a subtle sweetness, then dredged in seasoned flour and fried to golden perfection. Serve this crispy, savory snack with lemon wedges, marinara sauce, and ranch dressing for a true Olive Garden experience. Perfect for gatherings or a delightful appetizer, this dish pairs the comfort of home cooking with the thrill of dining out.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs calamari rings thawed
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup pineapple chunks optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
To Serve:
- Lemon wedges
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate: Combine milk, pineapple chunks, and calamari rings in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: Mix flour with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 370°F.
- Dredge and Fry: Drain calamari from the marinade. Dredge in the flour mixture, shake off excess, and fry until golden.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges, marinara sauce, and ranch dressing.
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