Savory Air Fryer Parmesan Garlic Cauliflower Bites

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if desired)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each cauliflower floret first into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture. Place coated florets on a plate.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated cauliflower bites in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding. Work in batches if necessary.
6. Spray the tops of cauliflower bites lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp nicely.
7. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the bites halfway through cooking until they turn golden brown and crispy.
8. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with fresh parsley if using. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or marinara.

Chef tips

• For extra crispiness, double-coat the cauliflower: dip a second time in egg and breadcrumb mixture before air frying.
• If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, finely crushed cornflakes or gluten-free bread crumbs work as substitutes.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• To make the snack vegan, substitute eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water, set 5 minutes) and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.