Air-fried Crispy Cauliflower

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Air-Fried Crispy Cauliflower

Ingredients (serves 2–4)

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
    (for gluten-free: use GF breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes)

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional but very good)

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp paprika (smoked paprika is excellent)

  • 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Prep the cauliflower

    • Wash and dry the cauliflower well

    • Cut into evenly sized florets (important for even cooking)

  2. Preheat air fryer

    • Preheat to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes

  3. Coat

    • In a bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil

    • Dip florets into beaten egg

    • In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika

    • Coat florets thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture

  4. Air fry

    • Place cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer

    • Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes

    • Shake or flip halfway through

  5. Extra crisp (optional)

    • Add 2–3 more minutes if you want deeper browning

Tips for Maximum Crisp

  • Dry cauliflower very well before coating

  • Don’t overcrowd the basket (cook in batches if needed)

  • Panko crumbs give the best crunch

  • Light spray of oil on top before cooking = extra crispy

Optional Flavor Variations

  • Buffalo: Toss cooked cauliflower in warm buffalo sauce

  • Cheesy: Add extra Parmesan right after cooking

  • Spicy: Add cayenne or chili powder to the coating

  • Lemon: Finish with lemon zest and a squeeze of juice

Serving Ideas

  • Serve with ranch, garlic aioli, or yogurt dip

  • As a side dish

  • In wraps or bowls

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