Best Air Fryer Calamari Recipes

Air fryer calamari recipes are a popular dish that is loved by seafood enthusiasts all over the world. Calamari is a versatile and tasty ingredient that can be cooked in multiple ways, but an air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to delicious and quick cooking. Air fryer calamari recipes are not only delicious but also easy to make and are a healthier alternative to deep-fried calamari.

The basics of air fryer:

An air fryer is an appliance used to cook and fry food using hot air instead of oil. The air is circulated around the food, and the heat cooks the food evenly, turning it into a crispy and delicious dish. Air fryers are great for reducing the amount of oil used in cooking and make it a healthier option. They are easy to use and clean, making them ideal for people who want to enjoy healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to cook air fryer calamari:

To cook air fryer calamari, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Air Fryer

Instructions:

1. Mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a shallow bowl.
2. Beat the eggs in another shallow dish.
3. Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
4. Dip each calamari ring in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumbs.
5. Place the coated calamari rings in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, or until the calamari is golden and crispy.
7. Remove from the air fryer and serve hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.

Variations in air fryer calamari recipes:

Air fryer calamari recipes offer versatility and can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. Some popular variations in air fryer calamari recipes include:

Parmesan air fryer calamari:

Parmesan air fryer calamari is an excellent dish for people who love cheesy and flavorful dishes. To make this dish, replace the breadcrumbs with grated parmesan cheese, and follow the same instructions as above.

Spicy air fryer calamari:

Spicy air fryer calamari is perfect for people who enjoy a little heat. To make this dish, add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture and follow the same instructions as above.

Lemon garlic air fryer calamari:

Lemon garlic air fryer calamari is a refreshing and flavorful dish. To make this dish, add minced garlic and lemon juice to the egg mixture and follow the same instructions as above.

Conclusion:

Air fryer calamari recipes are perfect for seafood lovers who want to enjoy crispy and delicious dishes without using too much oil. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer plain or flavored calamari, air fryer calamari recipes offer endless possibilities of creating unique dishes that are both healthy and delicious. So, grab your air fryer and get cooking!

Using an air fryer to cook calamari is a healthy and easy way to enjoy this tasty seafood dish. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, air fryer calamari is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. But before diving into making air fryer calamari recipes, there are some valuable tips that you need to know to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Choose the Right Calamari

The first step to making delicious air fryer calamari recipes is to choose the right calamari. Ideally, you want to select fresh, high-quality calamari that is firm, smooth, and odorless. When buying calamari, look for pieces that are evenly sized and cut into rings or strips for easy frying. Avoid calamari that smells fishy or has a slimy or slippery texture, as this can be a sign that it is not fresh.

Prep Your Calamari

Once you have chosen the right calamari, the next step is to prep it for cooking. Start by rinsing your calamari thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Using a sharp knife, cut the calamari into rings or strips, discarding the head and skin. Pat the calamari dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, as this can prevent the calamari from becoming crispy when cooked.

Season Your Calamari

To add flavor to your air fryer calamari, it is important to season it with a mix of spices and herbs. A popular seasoning blend for calamari includes garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also add other spices such as cumin, coriander, or chili powder to give your calamari a unique flavor. Mix your spices together in a small bowl and sprinkle evenly over the calamari, using your hands to coat the pieces well.

Coat Your Calamari

To ensure your air fryer calamari turns out crispy, it is important to coat it with a light layer of breading. You can use a variety of coatings for your calamari, including flour, cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, or a mixture of all three. To coat your calamari, start by dredging it in flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in an egg wash and coat it with your desired breading mixture. Make sure to shake off any excess breading to ensure your calamari cooks evenly in the air fryer.

Preheat Your Air Fryer

Before cooking your air fryer calamari, it is important to preheat your air fryer to ensure it is at the optimal temperature for cooking. Depending on your model of air fryer, this may take anywhere from a few to several minutes. Once your air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent your calamari from sticking.

Cook Your Calamari

When cooking your air fryer calamari, it is important to cook it in small batches to ensure it cooks evenly and becomes crispy. Place your breaded calamari pieces in the basket of your air fryer, making sure there is enough space between them for air to circulate. Cook the calamari at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Avoid overcooking your calamari, as this can cause it to become rubbery and tough.

Serve Your Calamari

Once your air fryer calamari is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a serving tray. Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as marinara, tartar sauce, or aioli. You can also garnish your calamari with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for added flavor and presentation.

Clean Your Air Fryer

After cooking your air fryer calamari, it is important to clean your air fryer properly to ensure it lasts and remains in good condition. Start by unplugging the air fryer and letting it cool down completely. Once the air fryer is cool, remove the basket and tray and wash them in warm soapy water, using a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse the basket and tray thoroughly and let them air dry before replacing them in the air fryer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making air fryer calamari recipes is easy and healthy when you follow these valuable tips. Start by choosing the right calamari, prepping it properly, seasoning and coating it, and cooking it in small batches in a preheated air fryer. Serve your air fryer calamari with your favorite dipping sauce and garnish with fresh herbs to enhance the flavor and presentation. Lastly, don't forget to clean your air fryer thoroughly to keep it in good condition. With these tips, you will be able to create delicious and crispy air fryer calamari recipes that everyone will love.