Crispy Air-Fried Calamari: A Tasty, Healthy Seafood Treat

Cooking breaded calamari in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a crispy, golden-brown seafood dish. This method allows you to achieve a light and crispy exterior while keeping the calamari tender and juicy inside. With just a few simple steps, you can transform this seafood into a delicious appetizer or main course that's perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends.

Prepare calamari: Clean, cut, and season squid

To prepare calamari for cooking, you'll need to follow a few steps to ensure it's clean, well-cut, and seasoned properly. Start by cleaning the squid. Rinse the squid under cold running water to remove any sand or debris. Remove the tentacles and the beak, which is usually found at the top of the squid's body. You can use a small knife to carefully cut it off. Next, remove the internal organs by making a small cut along the length of the squid and carefully pulling out the internal organs. Rinse the squid again to ensure all the dirt and grit are removed.

Once cleaned, it's time to cut the squid into bite-sized pieces. Cut the squid body lengthwise into rings, then cut each ring into smaller pieces. You can also cut the tentacles into smaller pieces. Try to keep the pieces as uniform as possible for even cooking.

Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavor of the calamari. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Dredge each piece of calamari in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. This step helps to create a crispy exterior when cooked.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can marinate the calamari in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and your choice of herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or oregano) for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This step is optional but can add a delicious depth of flavor.

After preparing the calamari, you're ready to move on to the next step of the recipe, which is breading and cooking in the air fryer.

Breading: Coat calamari in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs

Breading calamari is a crucial step to ensure a crispy, flavorful exterior when cooking in an air fryer. Here's a detailed guide on how to coat the calamari in a breadcrumb batter:

Begin by setting up your breading station. You'll need three bowls or shallow dishes. In the first bowl, place an amount of all-purpose flour, enough to coat the calamari lightly. In the second bowl, beat an egg until it's well whisked. This will act as the binding agent. In the third bowl, prepare the breadcrumbs. You can use plain breadcrumbs or panko for a crispier texture. Season the breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.

Now, take a piece of calamari and dip it into the flour, ensuring an even coating. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured calamari into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip back into the bowl. Finally, coat the egg-covered calamari with the seasoned breadcrumbs. Press gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the calamari. Repeat this process for all the calamari pieces.

It's important to ensure an even coating for consistent cooking. You can gently press the breadcrumbs onto the calamari with the back of a spoon to help them stick. If you find the breadcrumbs are falling off, lightly spray the calamari with cooking oil before adding the breadcrumbs again.

Once all the calamari is breaded, you're ready to cook. Place the breaded calamari in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't touch. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Air Fry: Place in air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes

To cook breaded calamari in an air fryer, start by preheating the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the calamari tender inside. Prepare the calamari by patting it dry with paper towels; this step is crucial as moisture can prevent the breading from adhering properly. Then, coat the calamari evenly with a thin layer of flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured calamari into an egg wash (beaten egg) and ensure the entire piece is coated. Finally, press the bread crumbs onto the calamari, making sure they are well-adhered.

Place the breaded calamari into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking. Spray the calamari with cooking oil to promote crispiness and even browning. Set the air fryer to cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping the calamari halfway through the cooking time. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the calamari and your air fryer, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't overcook.

When the calamari is cooked, it should have a golden-brown color and a crispy texture. Use tongs to remove it from the air fryer and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve the air-fried calamari immediately while it's still hot and crispy. This method of cooking is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, as it requires less oil and still delivers a delicious, crispy result.

Seasoning: Use salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs for flavor

When it comes to seasoning breaded calamari for the air fryer, a simple yet flavorful approach is key to enhancing the dish's taste. Start by ensuring your calamari is properly seasoned, as this will create a delicious base for the breading. A classic combination of salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs is a great starting point.

Salt is essential to bring out the natural flavors and add a savory taste. Use a generous pinch of salt on each piece of calamari, ensuring an even coating. Pepper adds a subtle kick and a nice contrast to the saltiness. Grind some fresh pepper over the calamari to taste, aiming for a balanced level of spice.

Garlic is a versatile ingredient that adds a distinct aroma and flavor. You can use garlic powder or finely chop some fresh garlic cloves and sprinkle it over the calamari. This will create a delicious, aromatic seasoning. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Herbs such as parsley, thyme, or oregano can take the seasoning to the next level. These fresh or dried herbs will provide a burst of flavor. For instance, a sprinkle of dried thyme or a few chopped fresh parsley leaves can elevate the taste. Experiment with different herb combinations to find your preferred flavor profile.

Remember, the goal is to create a well-seasoned calamari that will absorb the flavors of the breading and cooking process. By using a combination of salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs, you can achieve a delicious, crispy, and flavorful result when cooking breaded calamari in the air fryer. Adjust the seasoning to your taste and feel free to add other spices or ingredients to customize the dish to your liking.

Serving: Squeeze lemon juice and garnish with parsley

When serving your breaded calamari, a simple yet flavorful touch can elevate the dish. Start by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the cooked calamari. The acid in lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the crispy, breaded texture. It also helps to cut through the richness of the batter and highlights the natural sweetness of the calamari. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Garnishing with fresh parsley is another easy way to enhance the presentation and taste. Chop a small bunch of flat-leaf parsley into fine pieces. Parsley adds a subtle, fresh herbal note that pairs well with the lemon. You can also use other herbs like chives or dill for a different flavor profile. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the calamari, ensuring an even distribution. This garnish not only adds color and texture but also provides a pop of freshness to the dish.

To serve, arrange the breaded calamari on a platter or individual plates. The contrast between the golden-brown batter and the green garnish is visually appealing. Consider serving it with a side of lemon wedges, allowing diners to squeeze more lemon juice to their liking. You might also want to provide a dipping sauce, such as a garlic aioli or a tangy lemon-garlic sauce, to further enhance the flavors.

For a complete meal, serve the calamari with a variety of sides. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots can provide a healthy contrast. Alternatively, a simple salad with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing option. Remember, the key to a successful dish is balancing flavors and textures, and these simple serving suggestions will undoubtedly impress your guests.

In summary, serving breaded calamari with a squeeze of lemon juice and a garnish of parsley is a straightforward yet effective way to enhance the dish. It adds a burst of freshness and flavor, making the calamari more appealing and delicious. This simple step can take your air-fried calamari to the next level, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

Frequently asked questions