Start by rinsing your cauliflower under cold water. Remove the core and chop the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Don’t forget to include the small leaves and as much of the stalk as you’d like; they add great texture!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cauliflower with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin seeds, salt, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle in 1-2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil. Toss everything together until the cauliflower is evenly coated with the spices and oil.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your cauliflower will start cooking immediately upon entering the fryer, promoting that perfect crispy texture.
Once preheated, place the seasoned cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
After the cooking time, check the cauliflower for doneness. It should be golden brown and crispy on the edges. If you prefer it crispier, add a couple more minutes to the cooking time.
Once done, carefully remove the cauliflower from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can sprinkle extra cayenne pepper on top for additional heat if desired.