Crispy Cauliflower Tahini Salad (Print View)

Air-fried cauliflower atop mixed greens with a smooth tahini dressing creates a fresh, flavorful dish.

# Components:

→ Crispy Cauliflower

01 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
04 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
05 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/2 tsp salt
07 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Salad

08 - 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
09 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
10 - 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
11 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
12 - 2 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds (optional)

→ Tahini Sauce

13 - 1/3 cup tahini
14 - 3 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
15 - 2 tbsp water, plus more as needed
16 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
17 - 1/4 tsp salt
18 - 1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Set air fryer to 400°F and allow it to preheat.
02 - In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
03 - Arrange the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crisp.
04 - Meanwhile, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and pumpkin seeds in a large salad bowl or platter.
05 - Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, garlic, salt, and maple syrup (if using) until smooth and creamy. Add additional water by teaspoons to reach desired consistency.
06 - Top the salad with crispy cauliflower florets, drizzle with tahini sauce, and serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley or seeds if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The cauliflower gets impossibly crispy without deep frying, and it stays that way even after dressing.
  • Tahini sauce is easier to make than you'd think, and one batch works for salads, roasted vegetables, or even grain bowls all week.
  • It's flexible enough to eat as a light lunch or hearty enough to serve alongside grilled fish or chicken.
02 -
  • Don't crowd the air fryer basket or the cauliflower will steam instead of crisp; work in batches if you need to.
  • If your tahini sauce seizes up and looks grainy, add water more slowly and whisk with patience; it always comes back together.
03 -
  • Don't skip preheating the air fryer; cold air fryers make soft, disappointing vegetables.
  • Keep extra lemon juice nearby when making the tahini sauce, because you might want to add a bit more brightness depending on your tahini batch.
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