Indulge in the guilt-free pleasure of this Low Fat Crispy Deep-Fried Calamari, a healthier twist on a beloved seafood classic! Perfectly tender calamari rings are marinated in tangy buttermilk to enhance flavor and texture, then coated in a seasoned whole wheat flour blend with a hint of smoky paprika and garlic powder for a light yet crispy finish. Using an air fryer and non-stick spray oil, this recipe achieves the golden, crunchy perfection of deep-frying—without the excess oil or calories. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and easy appetizer or snack is served with a squeeze of fresh lemon for zesty brightness. Perfect for seafood lovers seeking a low-fat option, this dish makes a crowd-pleasing addition to your repertoire while staying on the lighter side.
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Rinse and pat dry the calamari rings with a paper towel.
Place the calamari in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure all the rings are submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize.
In a large shallow dish, combine whole wheat flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Remove the calamari from the fridge and drain, shaking off excess buttermilk.
Coat each calamari ring lightly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Preheat an air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Lightly spray the basket with non-stick spray oil.
Place the coated calamari rings in the basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Lightly spray the top of the calamari with non-stick spray oil to help them crisp up.
Air fry in batches for about 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving size | (1045.3g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1673.5 |
Total Fat 55.6g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 15.1g | 0% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g | |
Cholesterol 687.2mg | 0% |
Sodium 3914.8mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 189.6g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 16.7g | 0% |
Total Sugars 15.6g | |
Protein 112.4g | 0% |
Vitamin D 128.7IU | 0% |
Calcium 586.9mg | 0% |
Iron 10.1mg | 0% |
Potassium 2189.8mg | 0% |
Source of Calories