Air-fried Crispy Cauliflower

why make this recipe

Air-fried crispy cauliflower is a delicious and healthy snack or side dish. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables with a satisfying crunch, all without deep frying. Using an air fryer means less oil and fewer calories, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a lighter option. This recipe is easy to prepare, and the flavors can be customized to suit your taste.

how to make Air-fried Crispy Cauliflower

To make air-fried crispy cauliflower, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and follow some easy steps.

Ingredients:

• 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
• 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (or egg substitute for vegan option)
• Olive oil spray

Directions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip cauliflower florets in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Lightly spray air fryer basket with olive oil.
5. Arrange coated cauliflower in the basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately.

how to serve Air-fried Crispy Cauliflower

You can serve air-fried crispy cauliflower as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. It pairs well with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy dip. Feel free to sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs on top for added flavor.

how to store Air-fried Crispy Cauliflower

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best eaten within 2-3 days. To reheat, you can use the air fryer again for a few minutes to restore the crispiness or use the oven.

tips to make Air-fried Crispy Cauliflower

• Ensure the florets are evenly coated for best results.
• Experiment with different spices to match your flavor preference.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can prevent even cooking.

variation

For a vegan version, use an egg substitute such as flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of the egg. You can also try adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before coating.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to air fry along with the cauliflower?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers, but make sure they have similar cooking times to cauliflower.

Air-fried Crispy Cauliflower

A delicious and healthy snack or side dish with a satisfying crunch, made easily in an air fryer with less oil.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb) Use breadcrumbs for traditional version or almond flour for a low-carb option.
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 1 large egg (or egg substitute for vegan option) For a vegan option, use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute.
• as needed Olive oil spray To lightly coat the air fryer basket.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip cauliflower florets in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Lightly spray air fryer basket with olive oil.
5. Arrange coated cauliflower in the basket in a single layer.

Cooking

1. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
2. Serve immediately.

Notes

Best served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Pairs well with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy dip. Feel free to sprinkle extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs on top for added flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven.