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Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower Tacos recipe


  • Author: Sophia

Ingredients

Scale

For the Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower:

    • 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 1.52 lbs / 680-900g), cut into bite-sized florets (about 11.5 inches)

    • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil

    • Spice Blend:
        • 1 tablespoon chili powder

        • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

        • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

        • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

        • ½ teaspoon onion powder

        • ¼½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder (adjust to your spice preference, or use cayenne pepper)

        • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

        • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Tacos & Toppings (Choose Your Favorites!):

    • 810 small corn tortillas (ensure certified gluten-free if necessary) or your favorite gluten-free taco shells/alternative wraps

    • Quick Slaw (Highly Recommended):
        • 2 cups shredded cabbage (green, red, or a mix) or pre-made coleslaw mix

        • ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro

        • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)

        • 1 tablespoon olive oil

        • Pinch of salt

    • Creamy Element:
        • Sliced or diced avocado

        • Guacamole

        • Lime Crema (see simple recipe below) or vegan cashew cream

        • Cotija cheese, crumbled (optional, for non-vegan)

    • Other Topping Ideas:
        • Pickled red onions

        • Fresh salsa (pico de gallo, salsa verde)

        • Chopped fresh cilantro

        • Sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)

        • Lime wedges, for serving


Instructions

    1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
        • Wash and thoroughly dry the head of cauliflower.

        • Remove the leaves and core, then cut or break the cauliflower into bite-sized florets (about 1-1.5 inches). Try to keep them fairly uniform.

        • In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or avocado oil) until they are lightly and evenly coated.

    1. Season the Cauliflower:
        • In a small bowl, whisk together all the spice blend ingredients: chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chipotle chili powder, salt, and black pepper.

        • Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the oiled cauliflower florets. Toss well until every floret is generously coated with the spices.

    1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
        • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps the cauliflower start roasting and crisping immediately.

    1. Air Fry the Cauliflower:
        • Place the seasoned cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket. If necessary, cook the cauliflower in two batches to ensure it roasts properly and doesn’t steam. Overcrowding will prevent those desirable crispy edges.

        • Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-18 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing the cauliflower halfway through the cooking time.
            • Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your florets and your specific air fryer model.

            • The cauliflower is done when it is tender-crisp, nicely browned, and has some charred, crispy edges.

    1. Prepare the Quick Slaw (While Cauliflower Roasts):
        • In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix) and chopped cilantro.

        • In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.

        • Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to combine. Set aside. This slaw benefits from sitting for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

    1. Prepare Other Toppings & Warm Tortillas:
        • While the cauliflower is finishing up, prepare any other desired toppings: slice avocado, make guacamole or lime crema, chop extra cilantro, etc.

        • Warm your corn tortillas. You can do this by:
            • Wrapping a stack in a slightly damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.

            • Warming them one by one in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-30 seconds per side.

            • Briefly warming them directly over a gas flame using tongs (for a slight char).

            • Wrapping them in foil and warming them in a low oven or even the air fryer (after cauliflower is done, at a lower temp for a minute).

    1. Assemble the Tacos:
        • Once the cauliflower is perfectly roasted, it’s time to build your tacos.

        • Spoon a generous amount of the air fryer roasted cauliflower into each warm tortilla.

        • Top with a heap of the quick slaw.

        • Add your creamy element (sliced avocado, guacamole, or a drizzle of lime crema).

        • Garnish with any other desired toppings like cotija cheese, pickled red onions, or fresh cilantro.

    1. Serve Immediately:
        • Serve the Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower Tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 280-350