Go Back
–+ servings
Air-fried cauliflower in a serving bowl with a side of creamy white dipping sauce.

Air-Fried Cauliflower

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serving Size: 2
Author Puja Verma
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

DESCRIPTION

These crispy air-fried cauliflower bites are so easy to make with just 7 vegan and gluten-free ingredients. The mix of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and nutritional yeast gives it that perfect balance of smoky, savory, and a little cheesy flavor. It's crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside with a burst of bold flavors. Serve it as a snack, side, or an appetizer with a side of your favorite dip.

INGREDIENTS
  

  • 1 whole cauliflower head
  • 1-2 tablespoon avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon chives (chopped) to garnish

METHOD
 

  • Preheat your air fryer to 390℉ degrees. Meanwhile wash and cut the cauliflower into florets. Then make sure to pat dry the florets using a kitchen towel to avoid steaming when air frying.
  • Drizzle the cauliflower florets with oil, and add nutritional yeast, salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss together till all the florets are evenly coated.
    Note: Try to go easy on the oil to avoid steaming when air frying.
  • Place the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 390℉ for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking or burning!
    Note: Depending on the size of your air fryer basket - You might need to air fryer in batches to avoid over-crowding.
  • Once golden and crispy, remove the air fryer cauliflower from the basket. Garnish with chopped chives, and serve them immediately with or without your choice of dip.

NOTES

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for at least 3-5 minutes to help the cauliflower cook evenly and get that ultra-crispy texture.
  • Adjust the Cooking Time: If your florets are on the larger side, add a couple of extra minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning.
  • Use High Heat for Extra Crispiness: If you want an even crispier finish, increase the heat to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for the last 2-3 minutes.

NUTRITION

Calories: 81kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 582mg | Potassium: 93mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.04g | Vitamin C: 0.02mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.3mg
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: All, American
Keyword: air fried cauliflower, air fryer cauliflower
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!