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Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Calamari: 20-Min Miracle

Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Calamari

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Make crispy calamari rings in your air fryer with minimal oil. This recipe creates a savory salt and pepper crust on tender squid. It works perfectly as a quick appetizer or a light main dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) squid rings, fresh or thawed
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp ground Sichuan pepper or black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Cooking oil spray
  • 1 red chili, sliced thin
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat the squid rings completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Mix cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a medium bowl.
  3. Toss the squid rings in the dry mixture until fully coated.
  4. Shake off any excess powder from the rings.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil.
  7. Arrange the squid in a single layer in the basket.
  8. Spray the tops of the squid with oil to help them brown.
  9. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until golden and crispy.
  10. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time.
  11. Remove from the basket and garnish with chili and green onions.
  12. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the basket or the coating will steam instead of crisp.
  • Cook in two batches if your air fryer is small.
  • Eat immediately as the coating softens quickly.
  • Use fresh squid for the most tender results.