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Golden crispy air fryer cauliflower bites topped with Parmesan and parsley in a white bowl.

Veggie-Packed Side: Air Fryer Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with garlicky Parmesan flavor, these air fryer cauliflower bites are the ultimate veggie side. They take just minutes to prep, taste like a guilty pleasure, but are secretly loaded with nutrients. A kid-friendly way to get everyone excited about cauliflower.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 2 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 173
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets (about 4–5 cups)
  • 2 teaspoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided: ¼ cup for coating, ¼ cup for finishing)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • 1 Air fryer (basket or oven style)
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Measuring spoons set
  • 1 Spatula or tongs (for tossing and serving)

Method
 

  1. Wash and cut cauliflower into small florets. Pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add cauliflower and toss until evenly coated.
  3. Sprinkle in ¼ cup Parmesan cheese and mix again so florets are lightly coated.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes.
  5. Place cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Work in batches if needed.
  6. Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until florets are golden and crisp.
  7. While still hot, sprinkle remaining Parmesan over the cauliflower so it melts slightly.
  8. Transfer to a serving plate, top with fresh parsley, and enjoy warm.

Notes

Nutrition (per serving, about 1 cup)
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
Notes
  • For extra crispiness, make sure cauliflower florets are completely dry before seasoning.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 4–5 minutes to crisp them back up.
  • Works great as a side dish, snack, or even tossed into a salad.