![Air fryer cauliflower bites with a side of marinara for dipping](https://api.vip.foodnetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/air-fryer-cauliflower-bites-feat.jpg?w=3840&quality=75)
Cauliflower is a versatile ingredient in vegetarian cooking and these cauliflower bites are always a favourite. However, instead of the bites being smothered in buffalo wing sauce or barbecue sauce (which is often the case), these are dusted in a light herby panko breading and air fried until crispy. Enjoy them on their own or serve with marinara sauce for dipping. Best served fresh!
Related: These Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Are Always a Hit!
ingredients
directions
![](https://api.vip.foodnetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/air-fryer-cauliflower-bites-ingredients.jpg?w=3840&quality=75)
Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
In a large mixing bowl toss together the cauliflower and olive oil.
![Cauliflower in a glass mixing bowl](https://api.vip.foodnetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/air-fryer-cauliflower-bites-2.jpg?w=3840&quality=75)
In a separate small mixing bowl stir together the bread crumbs, flour, Parmesan, lemon zest, parsley, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper until well combined.
![Dry ingredients for air fryer cauliflower bites in a glass mixing bowl](https://api.vip.foodnetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/air-fryer-cauliflower-bites-1.jpg?w=3840&quality=75)
Add the breadcrumb mixture to the cauliflower and toss until well coated.
![](https://api.vip.foodnetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/air-fryer-cauliflower-bites-3.jpg?w=3840&quality=75)
Carefully transfer the cauliflower to the air fryer. Do not over crowd or layer the cauliflower, you may have to work in batches. Sprinkle any bare spots with excess breadcrumbs.
Cook for 8 minutes, rotate and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Continue to check the cauliflower towards the end to ensure the coating does not overcook.
![Air fryer cauliflower bites on a baking tray](https://api.vip.foodnetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/air-fryer-cauliflower-bites-4.jpg?w=3840&quality=75)
Transfer to a serving plate and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice. Garnish with parsley and parmesan. Serve with marinara for dipping.
![Air fryer cauliflower bites with a side of marinara for dipping](https://api.vip.foodnetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/air-fryer-cauliflower-bites-5.jpg?w=3840&quality=75)