Description
Crispy roasted cauliflower is a game-changer that transforms a simple vegetable into a crunchy, flavorful snack or side dish. With the perfect seasoning and roasting method, you get golden-brown, crispy cauliflower that’s tender on the inside. Whether you’re making it in the oven or air fryer, this easy recipe is a must-try for healthy eaters and snack lovers alike!
Ingredients
Scale
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 medium-large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 4 tbsp sunflower oil (or olive oil)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Spice Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- Smoky Flavor: Add 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Cheesy Touch: 2 tbsp nutritional yeast or grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:
- For oven: Preheat to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- For air fryer: Preheat to 390°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Wash and dry the cauliflower completely. Moisture can prevent crispiness.
- Cut into uniform florets (~3 inches) to ensure even cooking.
- Season & Coat:
- In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with oil, cornstarch, and spices until evenly coated.
- Roasting Method:
- Oven: Spread florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Air Fryer: Place cauliflower in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or ranch.
Notes
- For Maximum Crispiness: Avoid overcrowding the pan. The cauliflower needs space for air circulation.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of cornstarch for coating.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store seasoned, uncooked cauliflower in the fridge for up to 24 hours before roasting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Snack
- Method: Roasting, Air Frying
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 196 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: crispy cauliflower, roasted cauliflower, air fryer cauliflower, healthy snack, keto cauliflower