Calamari

Ingredients

• 2 cups calamari, sliced into rings (use tubes and tentacles)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• salt and pepper
• oil, for frying
• 2 tablespoons whole butter
• 3/4 cup sliced mild banana pepper
• 3/4 cup large diced tomato
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped scallion

Directions

1. 1

   Clean and soak calamari in buttermilk for 2 hours before cooking. Drain well.

2. 2

   Season flour with salt and pepper. Dredge calamari with flour until each ring separates easily from others. Put in sifter and shake off excess flour.

3. 3

   Heat oil and fry calamari until golden brown. DO NOT OVERCOOK!

4. 4

   Start with 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. When butter is melted, add peppers and tomatoes. Deglaze with lemon juice. Add remaining butter and scallions. Toss.

5. 5

   Add calamari and toss. Serve.