Air Fryer Calamari

Looking for a quick and easy appetizer to whip up for your next event or gathering?

This crispy air fryer calamari recipe is simple to prepare, and takes less time to cook than for your guests to devour. 

Serve your air fryer calamari with dipping sauce or marinara to enhance the flavors of the crispy panko breading and the tender calamari rings.

Ready in only 15 minutes, it's a recipe you will come back to again and again.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This easy air fryer calamari recipe works because it’s quick, simple, and adaptable to various tastes and dietary preferences.

By using the air fryer, it speeds up the cook time significantly making it possible to prepare crispy calamari in under 20 minutes. With some simple steps, like breading the calamari and popping it into the air fryer, even beginner chefs can succeed at making this dish.

Additionally, this quick air fryer calamari recipe is highly customizable. Whether you prefer a spicier version with paprika and cayenne, a gluten-free air fryer calamari. or a vegan take on air fryer calamari, you can adjust the recipe to your liking.

Ingredients

Four Mixture:

The flour mixture that you dust your calamari rings with is where you can best impact the flavor of your air fryer calamari. While this air fryer calamari recipe uses salt, pepper, and paprika to add flavor, you can experiment with any of your favorite herbs and spices. Additionally, you can customize this mixture for any dietary preferences, like a gluten-free diet, by using a gluten-free flour blend and seasoning it however you like.

Calamari Rings:

When preparing your homemade air fryer calamari, fresh is best. However, if you are unable to access fresh calamari, frozen will work as well. Simply thaw your squid rings in the fridge overnight, and pat them dry with a paper towel before breading. If using fresh squid, rinse it thoroughly and remove the head, internal cartilage, and skin. Slice the cleaned squid tubes into rings. If you’re looking for alternatives to calamari, you can use shrimp, scallops, or even small fish fillets like tilapia. For a vegetarian or vegan option, zucchini slices or cauliflower can be breaded and air-fried, providing a similar crispy texture without the seafood.

Egg Wash:

Create your egg wash by whisking an egg together with some milk or water. It acts as an adhesive for the breading to stick to. Alternatively, you can use your favorite brand of vegan egg replacer, aquafaba, or a mixture of chia or flax seed and water. 

Panko:

Panko is Japanese breadcrumbs but unlike regular breadcrumbs, it is made from bread without crusts, creating larger, and lighter flakes. This This creates a lighter coating that results in an extra-crispy texture for your crispy air fryer calamari rings. However, if you don’t have panko on hand, you can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, crackers, rice cereal, or even pretzels for a unique twist. Gluten-free varieties of each of these options will also work to create the best air fryer calamari.

How to Make Air Fryer Calamari

Step One: 

Add flour, paprika, salt, and pepper to a bowl and whisk to incorporate.

Step Two: 

Toss the calamari rings in the flour mixture.

Step Three: 

Add the milk and egg to a bowl and whisk to combine. Prepare the panko in another bowl.

Step Four:

Dredge the flour-coated calamari rings in the egg wash mixture, then in the panko.

Step Five: 

Preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes at 400F.

Step Six: 

Place the calamari rings evenly spaced in the air fryer basket and coat them with a light layer of non-stick cooking spray.

Step Seven: 

Air fry for 5 minutes at 350F, flip, and air fry for an additional 3 minutes.

Step Eight: 

Serve your crispy air fryer calamari alongside your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!

Tips

• Always ensure that you pat the calamari rings completely dry with a paper towel before breading. This helps the coating stick better and results in crispier air fryer calamari.
• Calamari cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. Overcooking can make the calamari tough, while properly cooked calamari will be tender inside.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Calamari

Air fryer calamari pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and dipping sauces to create a complete and flavorful meal. For a classic option, serve it with marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping.

A fresh, light salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the crispiness of the calamari, while roasted vegetables or a side of coleslaw add texture and color. You can also serve air fryer calamari with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a bright, zesty finish.

If you're looking for a heartier pairing, consider garlic bread or seasoned fries as a complementary side dish.

FAQs

Can I make this crispy calamari without an air fryer?

There are several ways to make crispy calamari without an air fryer. You can bake your calamari for 10-12 minutes at 425F or pan-fry it over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.

What's the best way to store leftover air fryer calamari?

You can store leftover calamari in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer-term storage, place leftover air fryer calamari in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour, then transfer frozen calamari to an airtight container or plastic bag for 2-3 months.

How can I best reheat my air fryer calamari?

The easiest way to reheat your leftover air fryer calamari is directly in your air fryer at 350F for a few minutes until heated through. 

Appetizer Recipes

If you are looking to impress at your next function or get-together, easy appetizers like these air fryer calamari rings are an excellent option. This collection of appetizer recipes will help inspire your next event menu.

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