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If you want a quick crispy snack or side, this air fryer cauliflower hits the spot. The florets come out tender inside with a golden, slightly toasted crunch that livens up any meal.
I started making this when I wanted a healthier snack instead of fried stuff and it quickly became our go-to for game nights and simple dinners.
Needed Ingredients
- Cauliflower: about a pound, cut into small pieces for that perfect crisp Look for heads that are firm and white without brown spots
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons to add richness and help the spices stick Extra virgin gives the best taste
- Salt: 1 teaspoon to bring out the flavors
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon for a gentle kick and depth
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon adds warm, fragrant notes that blend well with the cauliflower
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon for a smoky and slightly sweet flavor plus nice color
- Optional Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup grated for a nutty, savory touch that melts a little on warm cauliflower
- Optional lemon juice: juice from 1 lemon to brighten up the flavors with a fresh zing
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Get Ready:
- Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Wash the cauliflower bits well and dry them really well using a towel or paper towels. Dry pieces get crispy better.
- Mix The Flavors:
- Put cauliflower in a large bowl. Pour in olive oil and sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir it all up so every bit is covered with the spices and oil making sure each bite’s tasty.
- Lay Them Out:
- Spread the cauliflower evenly in the air fryer basket without piling so the hot air can crisp all sides.
- Cook It Up:
- Air fry for about 12 to 15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through so the pieces brown evenly and get that perfect crunch.
- Finish It Off:
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the hot cauliflower and let it soften a bit. Add lemon juice for a fresh pop and serve right away to enjoy the crunch at its best.
I sometimes swap regular paprika for smoked paprika to get a richer smoky flavor. Once I served this at a family get-together and it disappeared fast—everyone was surprised how simple ingredients made such a tasty dish.
Storing Tips
Put leftover cooked cauliflower in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. To warm it back up without losing the crisp, air fry at 350°F for about 5 minutes until it’s warm and still a bit crunchy. Microwave isn’t the best since it makes it soggy.
Switch It Up
Try swapping paprika for chili or curry powder if you want a warmer or spicier flavor. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy vegan option. Throw in fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro after cooking to brighten it up.
Great With
This simple dish fits into any busy night while still tasting exciting. Grab your air fryer and enjoy cauliflower that’s crispy, fresh, and full of flavor every time.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → How do I ensure the cauliflower gets crispy?
Pat the cauliflower dry before tossing in spices and don’t pack the air fryer too full so the hot air can do its job evenly.
- → Can I use fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor?
For sure, a splash of fresh lemon juice adds a nice tang that works great with the spices and Parmesan.
- → Is Parmesan cheese necessary for this dish?
You don’t have to use Parmesan but it gives a tasty cheesy boost if you sprinkle some on after cooking.
- → What is the ideal cooking temperature and time?
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for around 12 to 15 minutes, giving the basket a shake halfway through to brown everything nicely.
- → Can I adjust the seasoning for different tastes?
Definitely, feel free to swap or add spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, or cumin to suit what you like best.