Air Fryer Calamari Crispy (Printer-Friendly Version)
Crispy, golden calamari cooked in the air fryer for a quick, flavorful appetizer with tender results.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Calamari
01 -
1 pound calamari rings, fresh or thawed from frozen
→ Coating
02 -
1 cup Italian seasoned panko breadcrumbs
03 -
0.5 cup all-purpose flour
04 -
1 large egg
05 -
0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
06 -
0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Optional Seasoning
07 -
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
08 -
0.25 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
09 -
0.25 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
→ To Serve
10 -
Lemon wedges, for garnish
11 -
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
12 -
Marinara sauce or cocktail sauce, for dipping (optional)
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Pat calamari rings thoroughly dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
02 -
Place flour, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings in a shallow bowl and mix well. In a second bowl, whisk the egg until fully combined. In a third bowl, add the Italian seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
03 -
Dredge each calamari ring in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip into the whisked egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
04 -
Place breaded calamari rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook in batches if necessary.
05 -
Air fry at 360°F for 6 to 8 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. For best results, do not preheat air fryer. Adjust cooking time for subsequent batches if necessary.
06 -
Allow calamari to cool slightly. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley, alongside your choice of dipping sauces.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
For optimal crispiness, cook the calamari rings in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
02 -
No cooking spray is needed, but a light mist of avocado oil spray can enhance crunch without additional oil.
03 -
Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer's wattage and the thickness of the rings; check for doneness at the 6-minute mark.
04 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 360°F to regain crispness.
05 -
For tender calamari, cook rings quickly at high heat; overcooking can result in a tough texture.