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
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.
🥘Ingredients
For the Calamari
For the Dipping Sauce
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
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.