If you're craving the delicious taste of crispy calamari, look no further than this air fryer calamari recipe. This simple yet delightful dish features air fryer squid rings coated in a panko breadcrumb mixture, providing a perfect crunch with every bite. By using the air fryer, you can achieve that restaurant-quality crisp without the need for deep frying. Dive into this easy-to-follow method and enjoy a healthier, non-greasy version of your favourite seafood treat.
Prep Time
15m
Cook
8m
Total Time
23m
Yield
serves 4
Main Course
Mixed Seafood
Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Calamari
Key Ingredients for Crispy Calamari
500g squid rings
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Cooking spray
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon Wedges
Add a fresh lemony touch to your air fryer calamari with some lemon wedges. The citrus juice balances the richness of the squid and adds a burst of freshness to each bite. Simply squeeze over your calamari before serving for that extra zing.
The Magic of Buttermilk
Marinating your squid rings in buttermilk tenderises the calamari and ensures a moist interior when cooked. This, combined with the panko coating, is the secret behind crispy air fryer calamari. Make sure to let the squid soak for at least 15 minutes before coating with breadcrumbs.
Steps to Cook Air Fryer Calamari
Master these simple steps and enjoy perfectly crispy air fryer calamari.
Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
Soak squid rings in buttermilk for 15 minutes.
Remove rings, shake off excess, and coat in panko breadcrumbs.
Arrange squid in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Lightly spray with cooking spray.
Cook for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Avoid Overcrowding
For the crispiest result, ensure squid rings are not overlapping in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding causes steam and prevents a crunchy finish. Cook in batches if necessary.
Serve your air fryer calamari hot and fresh, perhaps with a tangy garlic aioli or a sweet chilli dipping sauce. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or some seasoned fries to make it a full meal. Experiment with additional sides to best suit your taste preferences.
Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Calamari
With this air fryer calamari recipe, you can enjoy a healthier seafood delight that doesn't compromise on taste or texture. The combination of tender squid rings and crispy panko coating provides the ideal bite every time. By using an air fryer, you achieve the perfect crunch without the added calories of deep frying. Discover more tasty recipes on airfryerrecipe.co.uk and expand your culinary horizons with our expert tips and tricks.
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