Air Fryer Cauliflower

A savory and subtly spiced cauliflower dish made in the air fryer, this recipe results in tender, perfectly roasted cauliflower with crispy edges. It’s a quick and delicious side dish or snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Cauliflower is a game-changer for anyone who loves crispy, flavorful veggies without the deep-frying. With just a few simple spices and a quick cook time, you can enjoy a perfectly roasted cauliflower that’s tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. It’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, and the best part is that it’s made in the air fryer, making it super easy and faster than traditional oven roasting. It’s a healthy, delicious option that’s perfect for anyone looking to add more veggies to their meals.

Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the air fryer:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

Season the cauliflower:

2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Ensure the florets are evenly coated.

Air fry the cauliflower:

3. Place the seasoned cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden and slightly crispy on the edges.

Serve:

4. Enjoy as a side dish, snack, or with a dipping sauce like tahini, ranch, or spicy mayo.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 7 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy version of this dish.

• Cheesy: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast over the cauliflower before air frying for a cheesy flavor.

• Herb Twist: Use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley in place of dried oregano for a fresher taste.

• Add Lemon: After cooking, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the cauliflower for a tangy finish.

• Sweet Version: For a slightly sweet twist, toss in some cinnamon and a little honey after cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover air fryer cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore the crispiness. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but fresh cauliflower will give you a crispier texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well before air frying.

2. Can I make this recipe without oil?

Yes, you can skip the oil for a lower-fat version, but the cauliflower will not be as crispy. You can try using a small amount of cooking spray instead.

3. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers to the air fryer. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetables you use.

4. Can I cook this recipe in the oven instead of the air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the cauliflower at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a similar result.

5. Can I make this cauliflower ahead of time?

This recipe is best served fresh, but you can prep the cauliflower and season it ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a day, then air fry when ready to serve.

6. How do I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, as it doesn’t include any animal-based ingredients.

7. Can I use different spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like curry powder, smoked paprika, garlic and herb seasoning, or Italian seasoning to suit your taste.

8. Can I make this recipe in a regular fryer or oven?

Yes, this recipe works well in a regular fryer. If using a conventional oven, spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.

9. How can I make this cauliflower even crispier?

For extra crispiness, make sure the cauliflower florets are evenly coated with oil and seasonings and cook in a single layer. You can also shake the basket or toss the cauliflower halfway through cooking.

10. Can I serve this cauliflower as a main dish?

Yes, you can serve this as a main dish, especially if you add some quinoa, rice, or a protein like chickpeas or grilled tofu on the side.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Cauliflower is the perfect quick and healthy side dish or snack. With its crispy edges and tender center, this dish is full of flavor and packed with nutrients. It’s easy to make, customizable with your favorite spices, and pairs wonderfully with any meal. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or a complement to your main dish, this air fryer cauliflower is sure to become a regular in your kitchen!

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