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⚡ Direct Answer: How to Air Fry Crispy Cauliflower
The 390°F / 12-Minute Formula: Cut 1 head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and 1 tsp cornstarch for extra crunch. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 12 to 14 minutes, shaking twice, until deep golden brown and crispy.
Cauliflower is the ultimate low-carb vegetable chameleon. When air fried at high heat with warming spices, the natural sugars caramelize into deep savory notes that taste shockingly close to buffalo wings or fried pakoras without the heavy oil. Part of our 15 Best Air Fryer Recipes collection.
Healthy Appetizer
Spiced Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites
Prep Time: 8 mins | Cook Time: 12 mins | Total Time: 20 mins | Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower (chopped into bite-sized florets)
- 1.5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for that crunchy exterior)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric & ½ tsp sea salt
- Lemon wedges and fresh cilantro for serving
Instructions
- Make sure cauliflower florets are completely dry after washing.
- In a large bowl, whisk olive oil with cornstarch and all spices. Add cauliflower and toss vigorously until every floret is coated.
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Transfer florets to the basket. Air fry for 12 to 14 minutes, shaking the basket at minute 5 and minute 10.
- Garnish with cilantro, squeeze fresh lemon juice, and serve hot with garlic yogurt or mint chutney!
Nutrition (Per Serving): ~75 Calories | 3g Protein | 8g Carbs | 4g Fat | Track your daily intake with our Calorie Calculator.