Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe

Try this easy and delicious Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe. With just a handful of spices and an air fryer you can have a healthy side dish in just 20 minutes!

We are always trying to figure out ways to creatively get vegetables on the table that the whole family enjoys. I can tell you this, if we tell the kids they were cooked in the air fryer, they will try them every time!

We love this recipe because it’s quick, healthy and makes a great side to just about any main dish. Additionally, it is totally customizable, if you don’t have turmeric, omit that, the cauliflower will still taste great!

Choosing a fresh cauliflower head

• Avoid cauliflower that has dark spots or blemishes on the head.
• Look for tightly packed florets.
• Choose cauliflower heads that are firm. Do not choose ones that are soft, this is an indicator of spoilage.
• Make sure that the leaves extend over the top and have a nice green color.

How to store fresh cauliflower

• Keep fresh cauliflower in the refrigerator.
• Make sure that it is tightly wrapped.
• Store in the crisper drawer.

How to cut up cauliflower

• Cut away the leaves and stem; use a knife to cut around the outside of the stem.
• Cut the florets off the stem; you can also use your hands and break off the florets.
• The end result should be one to two bite-sized florets.

Reasons you’ll love Air Fryer Cauliflower

• So easy to make! No need to boil cauliflower before cooking in the air fryer. Just cut, season and air fry!
• Makes a great side dish! This recipe is so versatile and goes great with lamb, steak, pork and chicken.
• Mix up your favorite spices! If you don’t like turmeric then omit it. Want a little more heat? Then add a little sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Mix it up to fit your personal preferences.
• Add some parmesan cheese! Sprinkle some parmesan cheese on the top before serving.

Questions answered

• Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, just make sure it is fully thawed out, otherwise it can become mushy.
• Can I cook it all at once? Yes, depending on the size of your air fryer basket, just make sure there is a flat layer of cauliflower and none of the pieces are on top of one another.
• How long does it take to cook? Cauliflower only takes about 15 minutes to cook in the air fryer.
• Is cauliflower good for you? Cauliflower is a keto friendly vegetable and is also a free food (0 point food) on Weight Watchers. Cauliflower is often substituted for higher calorie, higher carbohydrates foods like rice, pasta or potatoes.

Health Benefits of Cauliflower

• High in Nutrients! Contains some of almost every vitamin and mineral you need.
• Contains a lot of fiber!
• Good source of antioxidants!
• May help to reduce inflammation!
• Good low calorie alternative!

Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe-Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

• Preheat air fryer to 390 degrees.
• Cut cauliflower into small pieces, 1-2 inches in size, and place in mixing bowl.
• Mix all spices in a small bowl. Set aside.
• Pour olive oil over the cauliflower and then add the spices.
• Mix thoroughly until all pieces are coated.
• Add the cauliflower to air fryer and cook for 15 minutes.
• Shake the basket, every 3-4 minutes, to help get an even cook.
• Remove from air fryer after 15 minutes. 
• Serve immediately.
• Enjoy!

Great mains to serve with Air Fryer Cauliflower

This Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe is very versatile and goes with just about any food. Here are some of our favorites.

Quick Baked Chicken

Simple Grilled Salmon

Grilled Flat Iron Steak

Simple Grilled Rack of Lamb