Air Fryer Cauliflower
User Reviews
4.9
Air Fryer Cauliflower
Description
The Air Fryer Cauliflower recipe seasons small cauliflower florets by first dipping them in beaten egg, then coating them with a seasoned mix of panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. The olive oil drizzle before air frying enhances browning and crispness. Cooking at 370°F, the florets achieve a golden brown exterior and tender interior without deep frying.
The spice blend adds smoky and mildly spicy notes, complementing the mild cauliflower. Air frying in batches ensures space between pieces, allowing proper circulation and even cooking. The result is a crisp bite with a flavorful crust and a soft vegetable center.
Serve these crispy cauliflower bites as a side dish or appetizer with dips or sauces of choice. They present a textured alternative to plain roasted cauliflower and highlight the air fryer’s ability to produce crunchy results with less oil.
Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to two days and can be reheated in the air fryer at 300°F or microwave to maintain crispness and warmth.
Ingredients
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Heaping ¼ teaspoon salt sea salt
- 1 egg large
- 2 cups cauliflower florets small
- extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- On a rimmed tray, mix the panko, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and salt. In a small shallow bowl, lightly beat the egg.
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg, coat with the panko mixture, then place onto a large plate. Drizzle the cauliflower with olive oil and place into the air fryer basket in a single layer with a little space between each floret. Don’t overcrowd the basket. Work in batches if necessary. Air fry for 9 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. The exact timing will depend on your air fryer. Repeat with any remaining cauliflower.
- Season to taste and serve.
Notes
- Best eaten the same day for maximum crispness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat using the air fryer at 300°F or microwave to retain texture.