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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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Seafood
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the calamari rings dry with a paper towel.
  2. Toss the calamari rings with lemon juice and salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to tenderize.
Breading
  1. Dip each calamari ring in the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off.
  2. Coat the ring lightly with the gluten-free flour blend, shaking off any excess.
Frying
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Arrange the breaded calamari in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
  3. Spray lightly with oil spray, then cook for about 4 minutes.
  4. Shake the basket and continue to cook for an additional 4 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Serving
  1. 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.