Get ready to transform the humble cauliflower into a mouthwatering sensation that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds! This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower is not just a side dish – it's a crispy, flavor-packed experience that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious. With golden, perfectly crisped edges, a garlic-infused coating, and a generous sprinkle of savory Parmesan cheese, this recipe turns boring vegetables into an addictive treat that even the pickiest eaters will devour.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and carefully cut it into uniform, bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly similar in size for even cooking.
- Pat the cauliflower florets completely dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy texture in the air fryer.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, whisking them together to create a uniform seasoning mixture.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss gently, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the garlic oil mixture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 3-4 minutes to ensure proper cooking temperature.
- Arrange the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
- Cook the cauliflower in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Once the cauliflower is golden brown and tender, remove the basket from the air fryer.
- Immediately sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot cauliflower, allowing the cheese to slightly melt from the residual heat.
- Transfer the Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower to a serving plate and garnish with additional fresh parsley or herbs if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy immediately as a delicious side dish or healthy snack.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Always thoroughly pat your cauliflower florets dry with paper towels before seasoning.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each floret gets crispy and browns evenly.
- Shake the basket midway through cooking to promote uniform browning and prevent any pieces from sticking.
- For extra flavor, experiment with additional seasonings like smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or red pepper flakes.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor – pre-grated cheese won't give you the same delicious result.
- Serve immediately after cooking to maintain maximum crispiness and enjoy the cheese while it's still slightly melted.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
