Air Fryer Cauliflower

Introduction

Air Fryer Cauliflower is a tasty and healthy dish that is super easy to make! This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious snack or a side dish that is crispy and flavorful, without using too much oil. Plus, it cooks quickly in the air fryer, making it a great choice for busy days.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Air Fryer Cauliflower is a fantastic way to add vegetables to your meal in a fun and exciting manner. Cauliflower is low in calories and packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. In addition, using the air fryer allows you to achieve that desired crunch without the need for deep frying, keeping the dish light and perfect for any occasion!

How to Make Air Fryer Cauliflower

Here’s how to prepare this mouthwatering dish:

Ingredients:

1 medium-sized head fresh cauliflower (washed, dried, cored, and cut into florets, about 1½ pounds after cutting into florets)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons fresh chopped parsley (optional garnish)

Directions:

First, add the fresh-cut cauliflower florets to a large mixing bowl (4-5 quarts) or a gallon-sized ziplock bag.
Next, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the cauliflower florets. If using the mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower and oil together to coat. If you’re using a ziplock bag, seal the bag and “massage” the cauliflower and olive oil together. This method is fantastic because it’s easy, and clean-up is a breeze!
In a small bowl (3-4 cups), combine the paprika, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Mix all the spices well and then sprinkle this mix over the cauliflower. Stir or shake to coat the florets evenly. If you decide to use your hands, wearing gloves is a good idea to avoid mess!
If your air fryer needs preheating, do that now by setting it to 400°F for about 3-4 minutes. If not, you can go ahead and add the seasoned cauliflower to the air fryer basket in a single layer. If your air fryer is small, you might need to cook in batches.
Cook the cauliflower and shake or turn it every 5 minutes until it turns golden brown. Having a few darker brown spots is perfectly fine; they contribute to the crunchiness! Serve the cauliflower hot right away.

How to Serve Air Fryer Cauliflower

Serve your Air Fryer Cauliflower as a yummy snack or as a side dish to your favorite meals. It pairs wonderfully with dips like hummus or ranch dressing. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color!

How to Store Air Fryer Cauliflower

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the air fryer again to keep the cauliflower crispy.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Cauliflower

Make sure to cut your cauliflower into even-sized florets for even cooking.
If you like extra spice, feel free to add some cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this helps achieve that perfect crispiness.

Variations

You can explore different flavors by adding your favorite spices. Try curry powder for an Indian twist or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw and pat it dry before cooking.

2. Will this recipe work without an air fryer?
You can roast the cauliflower in an oven at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes instead of using an air fryer.

3. How do I know when the cauliflower is done?
The cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can test it by piercing a floret with a fork; it should be tender inside.

Give this Air Fryer Cauliflower a try! It’s a simple and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!