air fry calamari recipe

air fry calamari recipe

The Best air fry calamari recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite air fry calamari recipe! This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, deliciously flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to please. The best part?

It’s incredibly healthy, with the air fryer allowing us to enjoy crispy calamari without all the extra calories of traditional deep-frying methods. I’ve been making this recipe for my kids since they were little, and now they’re grown and still request it whenever we have a get-together.

My husband loves it because it’s so easy to make and always impresses our guests. As for me, I just love how it makes me feel like I’m on vacation in Italy – minus the long flight and jet lag, of course!

With its light, airy texture and the perfect balance of flavors, this air fry calamari recipe is truly a winner in my book.

Air Fryer Calamari

Air Fryer Calamari

4.8 from 974 votes

Crispy and tender calamari rings cooked in an air fryer with a light seasoned coating. This healthier version of a classic appetizer is quick to prepare and perfect for dipping.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Calamari

1 pound calamari rings and tentacles, patted dry
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
Olive oil spray

For the Dipping Sauce

1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon capers, chopped (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
2While it heats, set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper mixed together; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
3Working in batches, dip each calamari ring first into the seasoned flour, shaking off excess, then into the egg, and finally into the panko, pressing gently to adhere.
4Place the breaded calamari on a plate in a single layer.
5Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil.
6Arrange the breaded calamari in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each piece for air circulation.
7Spray the tops with additional olive oil.
8Air fry at 400°F for 5 minutes, then carefully flip each piece with tongs and spray again.
9Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until the coating is golden brown and the calamari is tender.
10Do not overcook or the calamari will become tough.
11While the calamari cooks, stir together the marinara sauce, lemon juice, and capers in a small bowl for the dipping sauce.
12Serve the hot calamari immediately with the sauce on the side.

🔧Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Tongs
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 220mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For extra crispiness, ensure the calamari is thoroughly dried before breading. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Watch Video Of How Air Fryer Calamari Works

This air fry calamari recipe is truly one of my go-to’s for any occasion – whether we’re having friends over or just need a quick weeknight dinner. Not only is it ridiculously easy to make (like 10 minutes total!)

, but it’s also super healthy compared to traditional fried foods. And let’s not forget about all the fun storage ideas – have you considered storing leftovers in an ice cube tray?

It makes reheating so much easier!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Calamari

Q: What is calamari and where does it come from?

Calamari is a type of squid that is commonly used in Italian cuisine. It’s typically sold frozen or fresh at most grocery stores and can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, pasta sauces, and of course, as the star ingredient in our air fry calamari recipe.

Q: What are the benefits of using an air fryer versus deep-frying?

Using an air fryer is not only healthier than deep-frying but also much easier to clean up afterwards! With an air fryer, you can achieve that same crispy exterior we all love without having to deal with the mess of hot oil splatters everywhere. Plus, it’s just so much quicker to cook with – no more waiting around for hours for your food to be ready!

Q: Can I use pre-cooked or pre-made calamari in this recipe?

No way! Using pre-cooked or pre-made calamari would completely change the flavor profile and texture of this dish. Trust me when I say that taking the time to cook your calamari from scratch is worth it – every single bite will taste better because of it.

Q: What kind of seasonings should I use in this recipe?

The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize it however you like! For a classic Italian flavor, try using some dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. If you prefer something spicier, go ahead and add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos. And don’t even get me started on how amazing this dish tastes with some freshly squeezed lemon juice squeezed over the top…

Q: Can I store leftover air fry calamari in an airtight container?

Absolutely! In fact, storing leftovers in an airtight container will help keep them fresh for longer. Just be sure to let them cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.

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