Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots

In today’s health-conscious world, snacking has taken on a new meaning. Gone are the days when snack options were limited to chips and sugary treats. With the rise of air fryer recipes, the culinary landscape has transformed, offering delicious and nutritious alternatives that appeal to both kids and adults. Among these, the crispy air fryer cauliflower tots stand out as a flavorful and wholesome snack option that satisfies cravings without the guilt.

Discover a new twist on snacking with crispy air fryer cauliflower tots! This healthy alternative combines the goodness of cauliflower with flavorful cheeses and seasonings for a satisfying treat that everyone will love. Easy to make and perfect for lunchboxes or parties, these tots offer the crunch you crave without the guilt. Enjoy delicious, nutritious snacking and impress your friends and family with this delightful recipe that makes veggies fun!

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Ingredients

1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped into small florets

1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for an extra crunchy texture)

1 large egg, lightly beaten

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil for coating

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower: In a steamer basket over boiling water, steam the cauliflower florets for 6-8 minutes until they are tender. Alternatively, you can boil them in salted water for about 5 minutes. After cooking, make sure to drain them thoroughly and let them cool for a few minutes.

Mash the Cauliflower: Once the cauliflower has cooled enough to handle, place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. Transfer the drained florets into a large mixing bowl, and use a fork or potato masher to mash them until the mixture becomes coarse and well combined.

Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the mashed cauliflower. Stir everything together thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and all ingredients are well blended.

Shape the Tots: With clean hands, take portions of the mixture and shape them into small oval or cylindrical forms, approximately 1-2 inches long. Arrange the shaped tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easier handling.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure it is hot enough for cooking.

Air Fry the Tots: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil. Place the cauliflower tots in the basket in a single layer, taking care not to overcrowd them; you may need to cook in batches. Give the tops a light spray of cooking oil to help achieve that crispy texture.

Cook: Air fry the tots for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. They should turn a lovely golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.

Serve: Carefully remove the cauliflower tots from the air fryer and allow them to cool for about a minute before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or a tangy buffalo sauce!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

- Presentation Tips: Serve the cauliflower tots on a vibrant platter garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, and place dipping sauces in small bowls alongside for easy access.