In the world of appetizers, onion rings might be a top favorite, but fried calamari is a close second. This seafood dish consists of squid that is chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Usually, calamari is deep-fried, but thanks to Erin Johnson’s recipe, you can make it crispy and crunchy using an air fryer. Erin mentions, “This air-fried calamari is a great way to enjoy a light and tasty appetizer or snack without the need for deep frying.” This is especially good news for those who don’t own a deep fryer or prefer not to deal with a large pot of oil.
The Benefits of Using an Air Fryer
Erin appreciates the air fryer for several reasons. “I like using the air fryer because it requires less attention and is much cleaner than traditional frying. Plus, it helps save on oil!” she explains. Alongside the air-fried calamari, Erin suggests making a zesty marinara sauce for dipping, making this appetizer complete. Whether you’re enjoying it by itself or as part of a larger meal, this calamari and marinara combo is perfect for gatherings like game days or potlucks.
Preparing Your Calamari
To make the calamari, you’ll start with calamari rings that you’ll soak in buttermilk. “The buttermilk helps soften the calamari rings and also tones down the flavor,” says Erin. When it’s time to cook them, you’ll need both panko and regular breadcrumbs for the coating. You’ll also need a few ingredients for the homemade marinara sauce, including San Marzano peeled tomatoes, onion, garlic, olive oil, and dried basil to enhance the taste.
Here are the steps to make the dish:
- Mix the calamari and buttermilk in a large bowl and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- For the sauce, combine tomatoes, halved onions, and garlic in a small pot over medium heat.
- Once the tomatoes start bubbling, stir in the olive oil.
- Add basil, bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes.
- After cooking, remove the sauce from heat, take out the onion halves, and set the sauce aside.
- In a shallow dish, mix the breadcrumbs with panko.
- Dip the calamari rings into the breadcrumb mix, making sure they are well coated. Place them on a plate or baking sheet.
- Arrange the calamari rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray. Cook them for 6 minutes or until they are soft and golden.
- Serve the calamari hot with the marinara sauce on the side.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
While air-fried calamari rings with homemade marinara sauce are a winning combination, there are plenty of ways to mix things up. “Marinara sauce is easy and delicious but takes time to develop flavor,” Erin notes. “If you’re short on time, you could use a pre-made sauce instead.” If you love homemade sauce, consider making extra to use with pasta later.
If you don’t have both regular and panko breadcrumbs, that’s okay. “I prefer the texture of a mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs, but you can use whatever you have,” Erin suggests. She also mentions that panko breadcrumbs work best in the air fryer. For a thicker crust on your calamari, try double battering the rings with beaten eggs and bread crumb mix.
This recipe is a two-in-one deal—you get a tasty appetizer and a dipping sauce. You don’t need anything else to enjoy this calamari. If you’re not a fan of marinara or just want something different, try dipping your crispy rings in ketchup, ranch dressing, or aioli instead.
If you’re serving the calamari as part of a larger meal, consider pairing it with light, fresh foods to balance the richness of the fried squid. “I like to serve this with other antipasti like banana peppers, olives, salami, and cheese,” says Erin. Just remember, it’s best to eat the calamari right after cooking, as it doesn’t stay crispy for long once refrigerated.
