Description
This Air Fryer Cauliflower recipe is a quick and easy side dish or snack that features crispy cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs and savory spices. Perfectly seasoned and air-fried to golden perfection, it's an irresistible dish that pairs wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Cauliflower and Coating
- 2 cups small cauliflower florets
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Heaping ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 large egg
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating Mix: On a rimmed tray, combine the panko bread crumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Beat the Egg: In a small shallow bowl, lightly beat the egg to create an egg wash for coating the cauliflower.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 370°F and allow it to preheat while you prepare the cauliflower.
- Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off. Then, roll and coat it evenly with the panko-spice mixture. Place the coated florets on a large plate.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Drizzle the coated cauliflower with extra-virgin olive oil. Place the florets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring there is some space between each piece to allow air circulation. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
- Air Fry: Cook the cauliflower in the preheated air fryer for 9 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. The exact time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
- Serve: Season with additional salt to taste if desired. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious snack or side dish.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Work in batches if you have more cauliflower florets than fit comfortably in your basket.
- Adjust cooking time slightly depending on your air fryer brand and model.
- For extra flavor, serve with sauces such as ranch, spicy mayo, or garlic aioli.
- Use fresh cauliflower florets for the best texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American