Calamari Fritti: Herb-Crusted Fried Calamari

Calamari, small squid, are a traditional Italian summer dish. The classic way to prepare them is by dipping in batter and frying, then serving them topped with a squeeze of lemon. The secret to tender calamari is to not overcook them, so be sure your oil is good and hot — about 375 degrees Fahrenheit — before you start frying the first batch.

This recipe for fried calamari is probably much like the one that inspired the idea for Alessi’s elegant long-legged juice squeezer,