Crispy Air Fryer Calamari

Name: Crispy Air Fryer Calamari
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400g squid rings and tentacles, patted dry; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 2 eggs, beaten; Olive oil spray; Lemon wedges and marinara sauce for serving

Published: June 21, 2026 | Italian Cuisine | ⏱ 18 min

Crispy air fryer calamari rings with lemon wedges

Crispy calamari is a beloved Italian antipasto, and the air fryer makes it surprisingly easy at home. The intense dry heat creates a shatteringly crisp coating while keeping the squid tender and never rubbery. Served with lemon and marinara, this air fryer version rivals any trattoria.

Recipe Info

Prep Time10 min

Cook Time8 min

Total Time18 min

Servings4

DifficultyEasy

CuisineItalian

Pat the squid thoroughly dry before breading. Excess moisture will steam the coating instead of crisping it.
Cook in batches if needed. Overcrowding leads to soggy calamari.

Nutrition Information

Calories	220 kcal
Protein	18g
Fat	7g
Saturated Fat	2g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	1g
Sodium	520mg

* Nutritional values are approximate and based on per-serving calculations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Calamari becomes rubbery when overcooked. Air fry for just 6-8 minutes and check for doneness early.

Rating

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.5 (67 votes)

About the Author

Stephanie Grine

Recipe Developer & Food Enthusiast

I am a passionate home cook who believes that great food brings people together. Every recipe on TodayFoodsMenu is developed, tested, and photographed in my home kitchen — not a professional test...

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