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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

Deliciously crispy cauliflower bites made in the air fryer with garlic, Parmesan, and a homemade ranch dip that are perfect for snacks or appetizers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cauliflower Bites
  • 1 medium head cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Quality Parmesan makes all the difference.
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
For the Ranch Dip
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Remove outer leaves from the cauliflower head and cut off the stem. Cut into bite-sized florets, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches each.
  2. Rinse florets under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels.
  3. Set up three shallow bowls for the breading process: beaten eggs, Parmesan and panko mixture, and a bowl for any additional seasonings.
Breading the Cauliflower
  1. Toss cauliflower florets in olive oil first to help the coating adhere better.
  2. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
Air Frying
  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Arrange breaded florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces.
  3. Cook at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  4. Check for doneness; florets should be fork-tender with a crispy, golden exterior.
Making the Ranch Dip
  1. Whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, and buttermilk until smooth.
  2. Add remaining ranch dip ingredients and whisk until evenly combined.
  3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve immediately while bites are hot and crispy. Store cooled cauliflower bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and the ranch dip for up to 1 week. To reheat, use air fryer or oven for best results.