Description
Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower is a quick, crispy veggie side that tastes like classic oven-roasted cauliflower but cooks in a fraction of the time. Tender florets get tossed in olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika, then blasted in the air fryer until the edges are golden and caramelized. Whether you’re hunting for dinner ideas, a healthy snack, or an easy recipe to round out a busy weeknight meal, this simple dish fits right into your easy dinner and food ideas list—and it even works alongside your favorite quick breakfast-for-dinner spreads.
Ingredients
1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, optional
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for serving
Your favorite dipping sauce, for serving (ranch, garlic yogurt, etc.)
Instructions
1. Cut the cauliflower into similar-size bite-size florets, rinse, and pat very dry with a clean towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
2. Add the florets to a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing until everything is lightly and evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the cauliflower and toss again so every piece is well seasoned.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 390–400°F (about 200°C) for 3–5 minutes so the basket is hot before the cauliflower goes in.
5. Arrange the seasoned florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between pieces; cook in batches if necessary.
6. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the edges are browned and crisp and the centers are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Transfer the hot cauliflower to a serving plate and immediately sprinkle with grated Parmesan, if using, so it melts slightly on the warm florets.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve right away with your favorite dipping sauce for snacking or alongside your main dish.
Notes
For the crispiest results, make sure the cauliflower is completely dry before seasoning and keep the florets in a single layer in the basket.
Adjust the seasoning to taste—add extra smoked paprika, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking for a different flavor profile.
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to bring back the crisp edges instead of microwaving, which softens the florets.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 105
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 260
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 0
Keywords: air fryer roasted cauliflower, easy vegetable side dish, healthy snack, low carb air fryer recipe, quick dinner side, weeknight vegetables, roasted cauliflower bites