Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe You’ll Crave Recipe
This Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe delivers a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Tender cauliflower florets are coated with olive oil and optional spices, air fried to perfection for a crispy texture, then tossed in tangy buffalo sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this vegan-friendly appetizer or snack packs a spicy punch and is perfect for game days or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 head Cauliflower (fresh florets, frozen can be used if thawed and dried thoroughly)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (can substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point)
- 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce (adjust quantity according to your heat preference)
Optional Seasonings and Garnish
- Smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Begin by removing the leaves from a fresh cauliflower head and cutting it into uniform, bite-sized florets. Rinse the florets under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness.
- Season the Cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with a drizzle of olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Add your choice of optional seasonings like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder and mix well to distribute the flavors.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness.
- Air Fry the Cauliflower: Place the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for approximately 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
- Toss with Buffalo Sauce: Once air-fried and crispy, transfer the cauliflower back to the bowl and drizzle with buffalo sauce. Toss gently to coat each floret evenly.
- Final Air Fry: Return the coated cauliflower to the air fryer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to cook the sauce onto the florets and add extra crispiness.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or cilantro if desired, for an added burst of freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure cauliflower florets are patted dry thoroughly before air frying to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Adjust buffalo sauce quantity according to your heat tolerance and flavor preference.
- For a milder flavor, reduce or omit spicy seasonings.
- This recipe works well with frozen cauliflower, but make sure it is fully thawed and dried to prevent sogginess.
- Use avocado oil instead of olive oil if you prefer a higher smoke point for crispier results.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for a traditional buffalo wing experience.
Keywords: buffalo cauliflower, air fryer recipes, vegan appetizers, healthy snacks, spicy cauliflower, easy buffalo sauce recipes
