Roasted Cauliflower in an Air Fryer is a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish that turns simple cauliflower into crispy, golden bites. The air fryer cooks the florets evenly, giving them caramelized edges and a tender interior without needing much oil. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or as a healthy snack.
With just a few spices and a short cooking time, you’ll have a delicious vegetable dish ready in minutes.
Ingredients 🛒
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
Wash the cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help them roast better.
2. Season the Florets
Place the florets in a large bowl and add:
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Chili flakes (optional)
Toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
4. Arrange in the Basket
Place the cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding so they roast evenly.
5. Air Fry
Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
The cauliflower should become golden brown with slightly crispy edges.
6. Optional Finish
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the hot cauliflower before serving for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Serve roasted cauliflower with:
- Garlic yogurt sauce
- Tahini sauce
- Lemon juice and fresh herbs
- As a side for grilled chicken or fish
- In grain bowls or salads
It also works great as a healthy snack or appetizer.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving) 📊
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
✅ Pro Tip:
For extra crispy cauliflower, add 1 tablespoon cornstarch when seasoning the florets before air frying. This creates a light, crunchy coating.