Air Fryer Cauliflower
Crispy, golden-brown cauliflower florets seasoned to perfection and cooked in the air fryer for a healthy side dish that delivers restaurant-quality texture without excessive oil. A versatile vegetable preparation that pairs with virtually any main course.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower about 2 pounds, cut into even-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika regular or smoked
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs or herbs de Provence
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese optional
- Fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley for serving optional
Instructions
- Prepare the cauliflower by washing it thoroughly, then pat dry with paper towels. Cut into evenly-sized florets about 1½ inches in size – consistent sizing ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Place the florets in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss well to ensure each piece is lightly coated.
- Add all the dry seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried herbs, cayenne if using, salt, and pepper) to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until the cauliflower is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the best crispy texture.
- Arrange the seasoned cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer with some space between pieces. Work in batches if necessary – overcrowding will result in steaming rather than crisping.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, pausing halfway through to shake the basket or turn the florets with tongs. Look for golden brown edges and test a piece for desired tenderness.
- If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the cauliflower during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a crispy, savory finish.
- Transfer the finished cauliflower to a serving dish, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top if desired, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, pat the cauliflower completely dry before adding oil and seasonings.
- Try to cut florets into similar sizes to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Don’t skimp on the preheating step – a hot air fryer is key to developing a crispy exterior.
- The air fryer doesn’t need to be fully cleaned between batches – the residual seasonings will enhance flavor.
- This dish is best served immediately while hot and crispy, but leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore some crispness.
- For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a vegetarian grain bowl.