This easy keto calamari can be made in the air fryer, pan or oven to suit your needs! Simple to make, with amazing crunchy flavor- you won’t even notice it’s low carb/keto friendly!
![calamari with peppers lemon and sweet chili sauce](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/calamari-with-peppers-lemon-and-sweet-chili-sauce.jpg)
Table of Contents
Why you’ll love this recipe
This Asian-inspired light and crisp calamari is perfect dipped in sweet chili sauce, marinara or ranch. We love this seafood recipe because….
- calamari is perfect for any time of year
- it’s crisp, but this air fryer recipe makes it healthier than traditional deep-frying
- the breading is a rich parmesan crust
How do I prepare calamari for the air fryer?
To prepare calamari, first pat dry with a paper towel, soak egg and cream mixture, then roll in “breading.” You’ll also roll the banana pepper rings into the batter and breading too.
How do I make keto calamari?
Calamari is keto on its own, but the fried version with breading typically has lots of carbs and added calories.
To make fried keto calamari, I subbed the typical breadcrumb mixture with pork rinds.
How many calories does calamari have?
There are 80 calories in 3 oz. of calamari.
How many carbs do calamari rings have?
Squid has no carbs.
![close up calamari](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/close-up-calamari.jpg)
How long will calamari keep in the fridge?
Freshly cooked calamari will keep for up to two days in the refrigerator in a sealed airtight container.
Can I freeze calamari?
Calamari can be frozen in a sealed zipper container or freezer bag for up to a month.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Next, air fryer at 400°F for five minutes or bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for up to 10 minutes, or until crisp.
How do I make calamari rings in oven?
It makes quit in the oven, you will better as usual, but bake them at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway, and then baking for another 5 to 10 minutes.
![lemon squeezed on calamari](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/lemon-squeezed-on-calamari.jpg)
How do I pan fry calamari rings?
Batter the calamari rings as usual, but cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes prior to frying in the pan.
Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a large pot to at least 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Add rings, one at a time to the pot. Remove after a few minutes, when golden brown.
Can I make this recipe with frozen calamari?
Yes, cook frozen calamari rings at 400°F for eight minutes in the air fryer.
![calamari in breading](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/calamari-in-breading.jpg)
What can I substitute for pork rinds?
If you do not like pork rinds, simply use parmesan cheese and low carb breadcrumbs/ toasted breadcrumbs.
![dipping calamari in chili sauce](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/dipping-calamari-in-chili-sauce.jpg)
What sides go with calamari?
Calamari is typically served as a stand-along type of appetizer.
However, if you’re making a full meal out of this dish, here are some nice sides to accompany squid:
- Pickled banana peppers
- zucchini chips
- Sweet chili sauce
- A delicious salad
- Veggies, such as zucchini or spinach
- Zoodles
![keto fried calamari](https://lowcarbquick.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/keto-air-fried-calamari-300x300.jpg)
Keto Calamari
Equipment
- oven
- stovetop
Ingredients
- ½ lb calamari
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 cups pork rinds or low carb bread crumbs
- 1 tbsp old bay seasoning
- 1 egg
- 1 cup heavy cream
Sweet & Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce
- 1.5 tbsp chili garlic paste
- ⅓ cup rice vinegar
- ⅓ cup powdered erythritrol
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp xanthan gum
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Add egg and cream to a large bowl and whisk. Set aside.
- Add almond flour, Old Bay and rinds to a plate.
Air Fryer
- Dredge calamari rings and peppers in dairy mixture, then rinds/flour mixture. Only air fry one layer at a time.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10-14 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Oven
- Batter as usual, but bake them at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway, and then baking for another 5 to 10 minutes.
Pan Fry
- Batter the calamari rings as usual, but cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes prior to frying in the pan.
- Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a large pot to at least 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Add rings, one at a time to the pot. Remove after a few minutes, when golden brown.
Sweet Chili Sauce Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in small pot over high heat and bring to a boil, stirring frequently with a whisk. Remove.
Aidoue
Looks good