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In recent years, air fryers have soared in popularity, transforming the way we cook our favorite foods. Their ability to produce crispy textures with minimal oil has revolutionized home cooking, appealing to health-conscious individuals and busy families alike. Among the many recipes that have emerged from this culinary trend is the Air Fryer Crispy Cauliflower Delight—a delightful snack or side dish that showcases the versatility of cauliflower. Whether you’re looking for a healthy munch during movie night or a flavorful accompaniment to your main meal, this recipe is sure to please your palate.

Air Fryer Crispy Cauliflower

Discover the deliciousness of Air Fryer Crispy Cauliflower Delight, a healthy snack that's easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion! This flavorful recipe transforms cauliflower into a golden, crunchy treat using minimal oil, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Packed with nutrients and customizable to suit various dietary needs, this dish is sure to impress. Elevate your snacking game with crispy cauliflower that's both satisfying and nutritious!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

1 cup all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour if desired)

1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch is highly recommended)

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)

2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prep the Cauliflower: Start by thoroughly washing the cauliflower under cold water. Pat it dry with a clean towel. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size to allow for even cooking.

    Set Up Dredging Station: Organize three bowls for the coating process. In the first bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until they are smooth and slightly frothy. In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

      Coat the Cauliflower: Take each cauliflower floret and dip it into the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floret into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the floret to ensure they adhere well.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure a hot cooking environment.

          Arrange in Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or toss the floured and breaded florets in olive oil to help them crisp up. Carefully place the cauliflower florets in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

            Air Fry: Cook the cauliflower at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning. The florets should emerge golden brown and delightfully crispy.

              Serve: Once cooked, transfer the crispy cauliflower to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an additional zing that complements the dish perfectly.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                  Presentation Tips: To elevate your dish, consider arranging the crispy cauliflower in a circular pattern on a large platter, with lemon wedges strategically placed around the edges. A sprinkle of extra parsley on top can add a pop of freshness!