Prepare the cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. Cut into uniform florets so they cook evenly in the air fryer.

Season the florets: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each floret is coated evenly in the oil and spices for maximum flavor. If using Parmesan or nutritional yeast, add it here for a cheesy, savory touch.

Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures the cauliflower gets that perfect golden-brown crisp.

Air fry the cauliflower: Place the seasoned florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Watch carefully in the last few minutes for a nice crisp and golden edges without burning.

Serve and enjoy: Transfer the crispy cauliflower to a serving plate. Serve immediately while hot and crunchy. This dish pairs beautifully as a side to roasted meats, a topping for salads, or even as a snack with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or tangy yogurt dip.