Air-fried Crispy Cauliflower

Here’s a crispy, flavorful Air-Fried Cauliflower recipe—perfect as a snack, side, or healthy appetizer 🥦✨

Air-Fried Crispy Cauliflower

Ingredients (serves 2–4)

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika

• Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for extra flavor

For Dipping:

• Ranch, blue cheese, or sriracha mayo

Instructions

1. Preheat air fryer

   • 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.

2. Prepare cauliflower

   • In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Parmesan/nutritional yeast if using.

3. Air-fry

   • Place cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

   • Cook 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.

   • For extra crispiness, cook 2–3 minutes longer.

4. Serve

   • Sprinkle with extra salt or herbs if desired.

   • Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the basket—work in batches if needed.

• Use smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky or spicy kick.

• Toss in a little cornstarch or flour before oiling for extra crunch.

Variations

• Buffalo Style: Toss air-fried cauliflower in hot sauce after cooking.

• Asian-Inspired: Drizzle with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sprinkle sesame seeds.

• Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

I can also give you a super-crispy, 10-minute “air fryer hack” version that comes out like restaurant-style cauliflower every time.