Cauliflower roasted in an air fryer is so simple yet it truly is a great way to cook it. The air fryer gives the cauliflower a crispy exterior while keeping it tender inside. I love using the air fryer as a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, as it requires less oil and is quicker than the oven. If you have not been using your air fryer enough or love using it then this an epic side dish worth your time.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this air fryer cauliflower recipe because it’s quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. Plus, it’s a healthy option that’s perfect for any meal. It is low carb, vegan, and keto-friendly, and the flavours, though simple, are incredibly delicious! This is a Greek-style way to cook and flavour the cauliflower that was taught to me by a Greek family I once worked for in a Mexican restaurant; 😂 true story.
The Ingredients
How to Air Fry Cauliflower
Step 1. This step is optional. Fill a pot with water and bring to the boil. Add the cauliflower florets and blanch for 2 minutes (see notes).
Step 2. Pour into a colander and place the cauliflower bites onto a clean towel and pat dry. Add the olive oil and seasoning to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3. The cauliflower will be tender. Place into a large bowl.
Step 4. Toss the cauliflower into the seasoned oil.
Step 5. Spread out into a lined air fryer basket. Air fry cauliflower for about 15 minutes, turning after 10 minutes. Roast until golden with crispy edges.
Step 6. Place back into a bowl, toss in lemon juice and season to taste.
Megan’s Tips:
- For extra flavour, marinate the cauliflower in the seasoning mixture for 10-15 minutes before air frying. If you prefer to use boiled cauliflower (without air frying), pat dry after cooking, and then coat in the marinade before seasoning and serving.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs to find your favorite combination.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavour.
Cauliflower in Air Fryer Variations
Flavours:
- Spicy: Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, homemade curry powder, or cayenne pepper.
- Garlic Parmesan: Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Herbed: Toss with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme.
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Vegetables:
- Air Fryer Broccoli: Replace half of the cauliflower with broccoli florets.
- Kohlrabi or Pumpkin: Both low-ish carb options to add to the cauliflower or in place of it.
Protein:
- Salmon: Serve with baked salmon fillets or salmon bites in garlic butter or garlic powder seasoning.
- Chicken: Add seasoned chicken breasts to the air fryer for a complete meal.
- Serve with Cottage Cheese Queso for a high protein dip perfect for dipping cauliflower in.
FAQS
Make sure to pat the cauliflower dry before seasoning. Don’t overcrowd the basket, as this can cause steaming instead of frying.
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.
The cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If needed, cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain its crispiness.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower
Air fryer roasted cauliflower pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a hearty meal, try serving it alongside an easy meal of beef rissoles, grilled chicken or fish, like salmon or cod. It also complements beef, such as a juicy steak, and pork dishes like country ribs or sausages.
For a vegetarian option, pair it with marinated tofu or tempeh. Fresh green salads or taboule salad make refreshing accompaniments, while dips like hummus, tahini sauce, or a garlic kebab sauce can add a flavorful touch. Creamy mashed potatoes or a simple pasta dish with olive oil and garlic are also great choices to serve with roasted cauliflower.
For more air fryer recipes, try our our air fryer green beans, air fryer chicken wings, or air fried salmon patties.
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Cauliflower in Air Fryer with Lemon and Cumin
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Ingredients
- 1/2 head cauliflower cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
CONVENTIONAL METHOD
- Fill a pot with water and bring to the boil. Add the cauliflower florets and blanch for 2 minutes (see notes). Pour into a colander and place the cauliflower onto a clean towel and pat dry.
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
- Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to a mixing bowl. Add garlic, cumin, salt and pepper.
- Toss the cauliflower into the seasoned oil. Spread out into a lined air fryer basket. Roast for about 15 minutes, turning after 10 minutes. Roast until golden with crispy edges. Place back into a bowl, toss in lemon juice and season to taste.
Notes
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
15 responses to “Cauliflower in Air Fryer with Lemon and Cumin”
The garlic really packed a lot of flavor into the cauliflower. My kids even asked for more, they’re that good!
A really delicious and easy way to cook cauliflower. I serve it with roast chicken. Great meal!
I love cauliflower as a snack and this has now become my favorite healthy snack to make.
This was so easy to make and the recipe came out so flavorful. Love such minimal effort recipes especially on a busy or hot Weather day.
I loved how easy this cauliflower recipe was to make in the air fryer. The spices and lemon gave it great flavor!
Love this easy weeknight alternative to a side of steamed broccoli, and so much more interesting!
We loved this dish. Nice and easy and very tasty thanks
Such a great alternative to a side of steamed broccoli for weeknight dinners. And LOVE that it’s made in the air fryer!
Love this easy recipe for cauliflower. And, that it’s made in the air fryer! It’s a great alternative to a side of steamed broccoli on busy weeknights.
Love this easy recipe for cauliflower. And, that it’s made in the air fryer! It’s a great alternative to a side of steamed broccoli on busy weeknights
Oh I love the idea of lemon and cumin! That’s a wonderful combination…I cannot wait to try this with other vegetables.
Thank goodness someone invented the air fryer because this is the ONLY way I will eat cauliflower (and broccoli too). I usually have a spicy umami blend that I use but I tried your cumin and lemon blend and found a new fave!
This cauliflower made such a delicious side! We added it to our chicken wraps and it was so good! It’s definitely going into our rotation.
Wow, what CAN’T the air fryer do? This is perfect, thank you so much for sharing this recipe 🙂
We loved this! I had it with your Cancun Chicken from Keto Mojo and the whole family wolfed it down. Thanks for another deelish meal to add to our meal plans.
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