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Squid, Lemon, and Zucchini Blossom Fritto Misto

Image may contain Plant Food Confectionery and Sweets
Photo by Anders Overgaard

During summer months, find zucchini blossoms at specialty grocers or at farmers’ markets. Halved scallions can be used instead, and small shrimp can stand in for the squid.

Ingredients

Serves 8

For the Olive Oil Aioli:

1 large egg yolk
1 garlic clove, finely grated
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup olive oil
Kosher salt

For the fritto misto:

2 large egg whites, room temperature
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups club soda
Vegetable oil (for frying; 6–8 cups)
1 pound baby squid, cleaned, bodies and tentacles separated, patted dry
1 lemon, sliced into very thin rounds, seeds removed, patted dry
8 zucchini blossoms, stamen removed (stems left intact)
Lemon wedges, for serving

Special Equipment

A deep-fry thermometer
  1. Make the aioli:

    Step 1

    Pulse yolk, garlic, and lemon juice in a food processor to combine. With the motor running, drizzle in oil, drop by drop at first, then increasing to a slow, steady stream; process until aioli is thick and light. Season with salt.

  2. Make the fritto misto:

    Step 2

    Whisk egg whites and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl until soft peaks form.

    Step 3

    Whisk flour in a large bowl to remove lumps. Create a well in the center and gradually add club soda, whisking from the center outward to incorporate and blend, until batter is the consistency of heavy cream (you may have some club soda left over). Fold egg whites into batter; cover and chill 30 minutes.

    Step 4

    适合大型重锅温度计;倒入oil to 4" up sides and heat over medium-high until thermometer registers 350°F. Working in 3 batches and returning oil to 350°F after each, dip squid into batter, letting excess drip back into bowl. Fry, turning occasionally to brown evenly and separating pieces as needed, until golden and crisp, about 2 minutes (squid may spatter in oil, so be careful). Using a spider or slotted spoon, transfer to a paper towel–lined wire rack; season with salt.

    Step 5

    Working in 2 batches for each, repeat process with lemon rounds, then zucchini blossoms. Serve fritto misto with aioli and lemon wedges.

  3. Do Ahead

    Step 6

    Aioli can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.

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