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Crispy Fried Calamari

Enjoy this easy, gluten-free, and paleo version of crispy fried calamari made in an air fryer—perfect for a light snack or appetizer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine Mediterranean, Seafood
Servings 4 servings
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

Calamari Preparation

  • 1 pound calamari, cleaned and cut into rings Fresh or frozen, ensure properly cleaned
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Helps tenderize the calamari
  • 1 teaspoon salt For seasoning

Breading Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup gluten-free flour blend Use light flour such as almond flour or arrowroot
  • 2 large eggs, beaten To help the flour adhere
  • as needed spray high-temp oil spray A light drizzle before cooking

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the calamari rings dry with a paper towel.
  • Toss the calamari rings with lemon juice and salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to tenderize.

Breading

  • Dip each calamari ring in the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off.
  • Coat the ring lightly with the gluten-free flour blend, shaking off any excess.

Frying

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Arrange the breaded calamari in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
  • Spray lightly with oil spray, then cook for about 4 minutes.
  • Shake the basket and continue to cook for an additional 4 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Serving

  • Serve hot with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauces like garlic mayo or spicy tomato sauce.

Notes

Best served fresh. If leftovers occur, re-crisp in the air fryer for a few minutes. Works well with various dips or fresh salad on the side.
Keyword Air Fryer, calamari, fried seafood, Gluten-Free, Paleo