Description
This Air Fryer Calamari recipe offers a crispy, flavorful twist on the classic appetizer by using an air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep frying. Coated in a seasoned batter and breading mixture, the calamari rings cook to golden perfection, accompanied by a zesty lemon dill mayo sauce that enhances the ocean-fresh taste. Ready in just 26 minutes, this dish makes for a perfect quick snack or starter for any seafood lover.
Ingredients
Calamari and Breading
- 10 ounces calamari rings
- Non stick cooking spray
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning
Batter
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup water
Lemon Dill Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill
To Serve
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Thaw the Calamari: Thaw the calamari as per the package instructions to ensure even cooking. Once thawed, pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a crispy coating.
- Prepare Lemon Dill Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, finely minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh chopped dill until smooth and well combined. Chill in the refrigerator until serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Make the Batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg and water together. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until a smooth, thick batter forms that will adhere well to the calamari.
- Prepare Breading Mixture: In another shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs, panko bread crumbs, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the herbs and spices.
- Coat the Calamari: Dip the calamari rings into the wet batter, tossing to coat completely. Allow any excess batter to drip off, then transfer the rings to the breading mixture and toss to coat evenly. Place the coated calamari on a baking sheet. Repeat for all rings.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and allow it to preheat for 5 minutes to ensure optimal crispy cooking.
- Air Fry the Calamari: Place a single layer of coated calamari rings into the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops with non-stick cooking spray. Air fry for 4 minutes, then flip the rings, spray again, and air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and repeat with remaining calamari.
- Serve: Arrange the cooked calamari on a platter and serve immediately with the chilled lemon dill sauce and extra lemon wedges for squeezing.
Notes
- Ensure calamari is thoroughly dried before coating to maximize crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches for the best texture.
- Use panko bread crumbs for extra crunch.
- Adjust seasoning in breading mixture to taste.
- The lemon dill sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- If you prefer spicier calamari, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breading mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
