Skip the deep fryer and the oil because your air fryer will give you crispy calamari that is just as good, if not better. Plus, when you pair it with a savory chunky marinara dipping sauce with hints of garlic and basil, there is nothing like it. So, name a better duo than this Air Fryer Calamari and Chunky Marinara Sauce, I’ll wait.

You can easily achieve healthier, but just as crispy calamari at home with a few simple ingredients and an air fryer. Using an air fryer will lighten up the dish and eliminate the oil, plus deep frying in which fried calamari is typically made. This recipe is perfect for sharing, great as a snack or starting dish for when you host or it’s even perfect on game day.

Once you air fry these, you will realize how you can easily enjoy this guilt free. I don’t know about you, but when I dine out with friends or family our automatic go to starter besides a soup or salad is calamari. It is a great source of protein, extremely satisfying and mess free. It light and small enough to have a few bites to where you don’t get too full before you main meal. So, since we eat it often, I wanted to recreate this for friends and family to enjoy at home.

When served with fresh lemon juice on top and this savory chunky marinara sauce, there is nothing like it. Fried calamari and marinara sauce go together like PB and J. It is just too good! Now, don‘t be intimidated about purchasing this item, because squid/calamari is easier to source than one might think.

Purchasing and sourcing the calamari: I went to my local Whole Foods and they usually have them readily available and fresh over the counter, both the squid tubes and the tentacles. You have the choice of eliminating the tentacles if you please and just purchasing the squid alone. They also have them available at our local Mariano’s. Last, you have the option to purchase them frozen and then thawing.

Did you make this? If so, make sure to tag and follow @prettyplatebymichelle on instagram or leave a comment below and let me know what you thought! I would love to see your Pretty Plate and hear from you!