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Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower – Crispy, Healthy Delight Ready in Minutes

Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower is a game-changer if you love crispy vegetables without deep frying. Using the air fryer gives cauliflower golden, crunchy edges while keeping the inside tender and flavorful—all with minimal oil. This recipe is perfect for healthy snacks, easy side dishes, or meatless dinners. It’s fast, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable with spices. Whether you’re serving it alongside dinner or enjoying it straight from the basket, this cauliflower delivers big flavor with simple ingredients.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium head cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1½ tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • These ingredients create cauliflower that is crispy on the outside tender inside, and perfectly seasoned.

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2:
  1. Wash and dry the cauliflower florets thoroughly.
Step 3:
  1. Place the florets in a large bowl.
Step 4:
  1. Drizzle with olive oil.
Step 5:
  1. Add salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 6:
  1. Toss well until all florets are evenly coated.
Step 7:
  1. Place the cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Step 8:
  1. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Step 9:
  1. Continue cooking until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Step 10:
  1. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 1–2 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating:
Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness
🥄 Variations
Spicy: Add chili flakes or cayenne
Cheesy: Sprinkle grated Parmesan-style cheese after cooking
Asian-style: Add soy sauce and sesame seeds
Herb-forward: Toss with dried oregano or thyme
Lemon twist: Finish with lemon zest
Each variation keeps the cauliflower crispy, flavorful, and exciting.
❓ 10 FAQs
Do I need to boil cauliflower first?
No, air frying works perfectly on raw florets.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, low-calorie and nutrient-rich.
Can kids eat this?
Absolutely—it’s mild and crunchy.
Why isn’t my cauliflower crispy?
Too much oil or overcrowding the basket.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but cook a bit longer and expect less crisp.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Can I meal prep this?
Best enjoyed fresh, but reheats well.
What oil works best?
Olive oil or avocado oil.
Does size matter?
Even-sized florets cook best.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, cook in batches.
🏁 Conclusion
Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower proves that healthy food can be crispy, satisfying, and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and minutes, you get a versatile dish that works as a side, snack, or light meal.
Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to it.