Description
Crispy cauliflower is a delicious, crunchy, and versatile dish perfect as an appetizer, side, or snack. Baked or air-fried, this healthy alternative to fried foods is easy to customize with seasonings and sauces. Enjoy a golden, flavorful bite every time
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1 cup water or plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed cornflakes for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking)
- Cooking spray (if air-frying)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer
- Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) if required.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water (or milk), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still slightly runny.
Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off.
- Roll the battered cauliflower in panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan (if using) until fully coated.
Step 4: Bake or Air-Fry
- Oven: Arrange coated florets on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Air Fryer: Place florets in a single layer in the basket, spray lightly with cooking spray, and air-fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, buffalo sauce, or garlic aioli.
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or mix in hot sauce to the batter.
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheese to the batter.
- Asian-Inspired: Toss with sweet chili or teriyaki glaze after baking.
- Buffalo Cauliflower: Coat in buffalo sauce after cooking for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: appetizer,side dish
- Method: Baking, Air-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: crispy cauliflower, baked cauliflower, air fryer cauliflower, healthy snacks, cauliflower appetizer