Air-Fryer Cauliflower: The Perfect Timing For Crispy Florets

Air fryers are a quick and convenient way to cook cauliflower, with most recipes taking no longer than 15 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the size of the florets, the temperature of the air fryer, and whether the cauliflower is fresh or frozen.

How to cut cauliflower for the air fryer

To cut cauliflower for the air fryer, start by removing the coarse leaves from the base of the head. Then, use a sharp chef's knife to cut the cauliflower in half vertically. From there, you can either use your hands to break apart the florets or hold the knife at an angle to remove the core and separate the florets. Aim for small to medium-sized florets so that the cauliflower cooks evenly and to prevent burning.

If you're making a recipe that involves breading the florets, such as a panko coating, you'll want slightly larger florets so they don't burn before they're cooked through.

How to season cauliflower for the air fryer

To season cauliflower for the air fryer, start by cutting the cauliflower into small to medium-sized florets. Place the florets in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. You can also use avocado or corn oil. Then, add your desired spices and toss the florets to ensure they are well coated.

Some popular spice combinations include:

• Smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
• Turmeric, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
• Curry powder, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder
• Chili lime: lime juice and chili powder
• Garlic Parmesan: add grated parmesan and minced garlic
• Cajun seasoning
• Za'atar spice

How long to air fry cauliflower for

Air-fried cauliflower is a tasty, healthy treat that can be prepared in a number of ways. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your florets, the temperature of your air fryer, and whether you are cooking from frozen. Here is a guide to help you get the best results.

Preparation

Before cooking, you will need to prepare your cauliflower. First, remove the leaves and cut the florets into small-to-medium-sized pieces. You can also remove the stems, or leave them on and eat them—they are completely edible.

Cooking Times

Once your cauliflower is prepared, you are ready to cook. The cooking time will vary depending on your desired texture and the size of your florets. Smaller florets will cook faster and result in more crispy edges. For crispier cauliflower, you can also add a coating of panko breadcrumbs and egg before air frying.

• For crispier cauliflower with a crunchy texture, cook at 370°F for 9–12 minutes.
• For tender, slightly crispy cauliflower, cook at 390°F for 12–15 minutes.
• For well-done cauliflower with a charred, crispy outside, cook at 400°F for 15 minutes.

Tips

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary, as overcrowding will cause the cauliflower to steam instead of crisp.
• Shake the basket every few minutes to ensure even browning.
• Check the cauliflower regularly to prevent burning.
• You can cook from frozen, but it is best to avoid using thawed frozen cauliflower as it will produce more moisture and result in a "mushy" texture.
• You can cook a whole head of cauliflower in the air fryer. First, boil it for 15 minutes, then cover it in olive oil and air fry the whole thing for 10 minutes at 400°F.

How to reheat air-fried cauliflower

Air-fried cauliflower is best reheated in an air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 320-350°F (160-177°C). This will ensure the cauliflower retains its crispiness. If you reheat it in the microwave, it will become softer.

If you're reheating frozen cauliflower, you can put it straight into the air fryer without defrosting it first. This will prevent it from becoming mushy.

When cooking fresh cauliflower, ensure the florets are of a similar size so they cook evenly. Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this will cause the cauliflower to steam rather than crisp up.

You can also reheat air-fried cauliflower on the stovetop for best results, or in the microwave if you don't mind softer cauliflower.

What to serve with air-fried cauliflower

Air-fried cauliflower is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a snack. Here are some ideas for what to serve with it:

As a Side

Air-fried cauliflower can be a delicious and healthy side dish to accompany a variety of main courses:

• Veggie burgers or sandwiches: Try it with an Easy Black Bean Burger, Portobello Mushroom Burger, or BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich.
• Chicken: Air fryer chicken breast or legs, lemon garlic chicken, crispy chicken legs, Mediterranean chicken, or baked whole chicken wings.
• Beef: Sirloin steak or air fryer steak.
• Seafood: Air fryer salmon, pan-fried tilapia, baked haddock, or butter poached lobster tails for a fancy date night.
• Pork: Air fryer pork chops or Crock Pot pork tenderloin.

As a Snack

Air-fried cauliflower also works great as a snack on its own or with a tasty dipping sauce. Some sauce options include:

• Tartar sauce
• Vegan ranch dressing
• Chipotle sauce
• Garlic aioli

In a Salad or Bowl

Roasted cauliflower is an excellent addition to salads and bowls, such as Buddha bowls. It can also be chopped up into a breakfast hash.

In a Soup

Cauliflower is a great ingredient for soups, such as curried cauliflower soup or cauliflower soup.

Frequently asked questions