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Fritto Misto

Light and crispy, this Fritto Misto is coated in a thin cornstarch-and-flour breading and fried till golden and crunchy.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Keyword Fried, Grilled Seafood, Shrimp
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 5 people

Equipment

  • candy or oil thermometer

Ingredients

  • 1 lb raw tail-on medium-large shrimp
  • ½ lb squid tubes
  • ½ lb squid tentacles
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp white pepper
  • Canola or vegetable oil as needed for frying
  • lemon for serving

Instructions

  • Begin by prepping the seafood. Peel and devein the shrimp. Clean the squid tubes and cut them into ¼–½-inch rings. Pat the seafood dry with a paper towel and season with a generous pinch of salt.
  • Combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, white pepper, and another generous pinch of kosher salt to a large bowl. Working with a few pieces at a time, dredge the seafood and set aside on a sheet tray or a large plate so they are in a single layer.
  • Heat 1 1/2 inchs of oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
  • Dredge the seafood once more, shaking off any excess, and carefully add a few pieces at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
  • Fry for 3–4 minutes, until light golden brown, then remove and drain on a paper towel–lined plate or a wire rack. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the finished seafood. Cook in batches, adjusting the heat to maintain the 350°F.
  • Serve with wedges of lemon.