Let’s Dive into Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower!
Hey there! If you’re like me and you want to make something crunchy, flavorful, and totally delicious, then you’re going to love this crispy Parmesan cauliflower recipe! It’s perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a healthy appetizer. Plus, it’s cooked in an air fryer, which helps it get that perfect crispy texture without all the oil. Trust me, this one is a hit even for those who think they don’t like cauliflower!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crispy Parmesan cauliflower isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Cauliflower is a fantastic source of vitamins C and K, and it’s low in calories, making it a great addition to your meals. When you air fry it, you’re keeping the delicious crunch without deep-frying, which means fewer calories without sacrificing flavor!
Fun Variations to Try!
- Spicy Twist: Add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick!
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan for a double cheese treat!
- Herb Infusion: Try adding dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning for an extra layer of flavor.
Easy Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (I love panko for extra crunch!)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray (for that perfect crisp!)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together.
- Take each cauliflower floret, dip it in the egg mixture, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Set aside on a plate.
- Once all florets are coated, spray them lightly with olive oil (this helps to get them nice and crispy!).
- Place the coated cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you might need to do this in batches). Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- When the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and enjoy!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Make sure to space the florets in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding will make them steam instead of crisp up!
- If you want to meal prep, this recipe is perfect! You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, just reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Asiago or mozzarella can add a unique twist!
Equipment Needed
You don’t need a lot of fancy tools to whip this up, but here’s what I recommend:
- An air fryer (of course!)
- A large mixing bowl
- A whisk for the eggs
- A cutting board and knife for prepping the cauliflower
- A plate for coating the cauliflower
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it before coating and air frying!
- What dip goes well with crispy cauliflower? Ranch, marinara, or even a spicy aioli are fantastic choices!
- Can I bake this in a regular oven? Absolutely! Just bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until crispy.
- Can I make this vegan? Yes! Use a flax egg instead of regular eggs and try a mixture of nutritional yeast and breadcrumbs for coating.
- How do I store the leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. For the best texture, reheat them in the air fryer instead of the microwave.
I hope you enjoy making these crispy Parmesan cauliflower bites as much as I do! If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear about it. Snap a picture and share your experience with me on Pinterest! Let’s get cooking together!
