Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs / 900 g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Tahini or yogurt sauce for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower (5 minutes — Low Intensity)

1. Remove the outer leaves from the cauliflower head but keep the core intact — the core holds the steaks together.
2. Trim the very bottom of the stem so the cauliflower sits flat on the cutting board.
3. Stand the cauliflower upright and slice vertically through the center into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick “steaks.” You should get 2 large steaks from the center; the outer florets will fall away — save these for another use or air fry them alongside.
4. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Dry cauliflower = crispy results.

Step 2: Season the Steaks (3 minutes — Low Intensity)

1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak generously with the seasoned oil mixture. Make sure to get into the crevices for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer (3 minutes — Low Intensity)

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a better crust.

Step 4: First Air Fry Session (10–12 minutes — Moderate Intensity)

1. Place the cauliflower steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd — cook in batches if needed.
2. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes , flipping halfway through (at the 5–6 minute mark) using a spatula.
3. Intensity note: This phase is moderate — stay nearby to flip at the right time. The edges should begin turning golden.

Step 5: Second Air Fry Session — Crisping (8–10 minutes — Low Intensity)

1. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) .
2. Air fry for another 8–10 minutes , flipping once more at the halfway point.
3. The steaks are done when they are deep golden-brown on the edges and a knife slides easily through the thickest part of the stem.
4. Intensity note: Low — you can walk away but check at the 4-minute mark to prevent burning.

Step 6: Optional Cheese Finish (1–2 minutes — Low Intensity)

1. Sprinkle Parmesan over the steaks.
2. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 1–2 minutes until melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Rest and Serve (2 minutes — Low Intensity)

1. Let the steaks rest for 2 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: ~130 kcal · Protein: ~3 g · Fat: ~10 g · Carbohydrates: ~8 g · Saturated Fat: ~1.5 g · Fiber: ~3.5 g · Sugar: ~3 g · Sodium: ~220 mg