Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe 🍽️
Air Fryer Cauliflower is a simple, healthy, and flavorful side dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes! This crispy cauliflower recipe is perfect for a quick snack or a vegetable side dish to complement any meal.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cauliflower florets, cut evenly
- 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika / red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon oil (olive oil or your preferred oil)
- Cilantro leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Season the Cauliflower:
- In a bowl, add 2 cups cauliflower florets.
- Add 1 teaspoon black pepper powder, 2 teaspoons paprika (or red chili powder), and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of oil (olive oil works great).
- Toss everything together until the cauliflower florets are evenly coated in the seasoning mix.
2. Air Fry the Cauliflower:
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F).
- Place the seasoned cauliflower florets into the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re spread out in a single layer for even cooking.
- Air fry for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping and cooking.
3. Garnish and Serve:
- Once cooked, garnish the cauliflower with finely chopped cilantro leaves (optional).
- Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty kick.
Notes:
- Shaking the Basket: The cauliflower florets might burn if they’re left too long without stirring, so be sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking to avoid burning.
- Cooking Time: The cooking time can vary depending on the air fryer model and the size of the cauliflower florets. If the cauliflower is not crispy enough for your liking, add an extra minute or two.
- Seasoning: The seasoning quantities are adjustable based on your taste preferences. You can also experiment by adding other seasonings like garlic powder or cumin powder for additional flavor.
Q&A:
Q1: Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
A1: Yes! You can use frozen cauliflower, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning. This will prevent excess moisture that could make the cauliflower soggy when air frying.
Q2: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A2: Absolutely! You can mix in other veggies like carrots, broccoli, or zucchini. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Q3: Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
A3: Yes! This recipe is 100% plant-based and vegan, as it uses oil and no animal-derived products.
Q4: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A4: If you like heat, you can increase the amount of paprika or add some cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes after cooking.
Q5: What should I serve this air fryer cauliflower with?
A5: This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals! Serve it alongside grilled chicken, tofu, or a hearty salad. It also makes a great snack on its own or as a side dish for curry, rice, or wraps.
Q6: Can I store leftover air fryer cauliflower?
A6: Yes! If you have leftovers, store the cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Conclusion:
This Air Fryer Cauliflower recipe is a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish that you can prepare in no time! The crispy texture and bold spices make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a snack, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful cauliflower! 🍽️