Air-fried Crispy Cauliflower

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