Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower

Air Fryer bang bang cauliflower is one of the most popular recipes on Pinterest, and for good reason The flavor is fantastic and it's a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies. This dish is easy enough for a weeknight meal, but fancy enough for company!

You know what's better than fried cauliflower? Air frying it! And you don't need a deep fryer to do so. You can get similar results with a good air fryer. So why is this better than deep frying? For starters, it's easier to clean up afterward because the food almost falls out of the basket and there are no messy pots or pans to deal with.

I don't know about you, but I am always looking for a way to save on dishes and mess in the kitchen. By using the air fryer it makes cleaning up a snap.

The other reason I like cooking in the air fryer  is that the food cooks faster. This means less time in front of a hot stove on those hot summer days when you don't want to turn on your oven. Plus, you can make this recipe with little to no oil!

What kind of air fryer do I need

You can use any type of air fryer that you have. There is no need to go out and purchase a new air fryer for this recipe. If you are in the market for a new one I prefer the basket style air fryer. If you have an oven style air fryer be sure to set your rack to the middle location for this recipe.

How do I store this side dish

Store any leftovers in an air-tight container. The cauliflower will keep for 4-5 days in the fridge. I like to label my containers so that I know what is in them.

What do I serve with this recipe

Serve this as a side dish or appetizer for your family and friends.  I like to serve my cauliflower with Asian style dishes. I find it pairs so well with rice.

Is this dish spicy

It is slightly spicy for most people. For kids, I would reduce the amount of the sweet chili sauce.  You can also add more mayo if you need too.

How do I reheat bang bang cauliflower in the air fryer and the microwave

Reheat in the microwave on 50% power for just 2 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in your air fryer at 370F for 5 minutes or until warmed through.

Can I freeze bang bang cauliflower

You can, however, I personally do not recommend it. I find the texture changes after it is frozen to be off putting. If you still want to freeze, then before freezing, place the cauliflower in an air-tight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use frozen cauliflower

I don't recommend it. If you do decide to use frozen cauliflower make sure that you let the water properly drain out before cooking your cauliflower. To do this simply pour off any excess water and blot the cauliflower with a kitchen towel after the cauliflower has thawed.

How to clean an air fryer

I use a nylon scrubby and hot soapy water.  Soak your air fryer basket in a sink of hot soapy water, then wash it off with the scrub sponge quickly.  Once clean then allow your air fryer basket to dry completely. I do not recommend putting your air fryer in the dishwasher.

Can I use store bought bang bang sauce?

Well technically yes, but  I don't recommend it. This homemade sauce takes seconds to whip up and tastes so much better than store bought.

Can this recipe be doubled

Yes. Be sure to allow more time for cooking in the air fryer, because a larger amount of food will take longer to cook than a small batch.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• ¼ cup mayonnaise

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower

Step 1. In a medium bowl, combine cauliflower florets, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 2. Place cauliflower mixture in your air fryer basket.

Step 3. Air fry for 400ºF for 15 minutes or until cauliflower is tender, stirring a couple times throughout.

Step 4. While cauliflower is cooking, in a small bowl, combine sweet chili sauce and mayonnaise.

Step 5. Transfer cooked cauliflower from the air fryer to a serving bowl. Drizzle bang bang sauce over top, saving some for dipping. Serve immediately.

Step 6. Enjoy!

This Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower makes an excellent weeknight side dish.  It is also a great appetizer dish for your next party! You will love how simple this recipe is to put together with only 6 ingredients. Don't forget to make plenty because everyone will be coming back for seconds!

I hope you enjoy this Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe as much as we do. Let me know if you have any questions or comments below. 

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