A delicious and healthy twist on a classic vegetable side dish. This quick and easy method uses the magic of hot air to transform cauliflower florets into tender-crisp perfection. With a golden brown exterior and a slightly sweet, slightly nutty flavor, Air Fryer Cauliflower is a crowd-pleasing option for any meal.
Packed with nutrients and naturally low in calories, it’s a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy as a side dish, snack, or even a vegetarian main course. Air Fryer Cauliflower is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite seasonings and sauces for endless flavor possibilities.
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (for a kick)
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add your desired seasonings at this point.
3. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd the basket, as this will prevent even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
4. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of your florets and your air fryer model.
5. Check the cauliflower for doneness. It should be tender-crisp and golden brown. If needed, cook for a few more minutes.
6. Remove the cauliflower from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy it as a side dish or snack!
Here are some additional tips:
- For extra crispy cauliflower, you can toss the florets in a bit of cornstarch or panko breadcrumbs before air frying.
- If you want a stronger flavor, marinate the cauliflower florets in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before air frying.
- You can also drizzle the cooked cauliflower with your favorite sauce, like buffalo sauce, tahini sauce, or yogurt sauce.
No matter how you choose to prepare it, air-fried cauliflower is a delicious and healthy option.