Lemon Pepper Cauliflower Bites

RECIPE

Craving something crispy, zesty, and packed with flavor? These Lemon Pepper Cauliflower Bites deliver the perfect crunch with a bold citrus kick, making them an irresistible plant-based alternative to chicken. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also climate-friendly, using cauliflower instead of chicken to help reduce your carbon footprint, conserve water, and cut down on greenhouse gas emissions. Whether baked, air-fried, or deep-fried, these wings are a guilt-free, budget-friendly, and eco-conscious way to enjoy a classic favorite!

Lemon Pepper Cauliflower Bites Recipe Video

Now, let's get into the recipe!

Lemon Pepper Cauliflower Bites

Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes (baked/air-fried) or 10 minutes (deep-fried)

Ingredients

Cauliflower Bites:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)

• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Coating:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)

  
  

Lemon Pepper Sauce:

• ¼ cup vegan butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large mixing bowls

• Whisk

• Baking sheet with parchment paper (if baking)

• Air fryer (if air-frying)

• Deep fryer or pot (if deep-frying)

• Tongs

• Small saucepan (for sauce)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine plant-based milk and lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to create a vegan buttermilk.

2. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. Dip each cauliflower floret into the vegan buttermilk, then coat in the dry flour mixture. If using panko breadcrumbs, press the floret into the breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

Option 1: Oven-Baked (Healthier Option)

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet. Lightly spray with oil.

3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Option 2: Air-Fried (Crispy & Quick)

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Arrange cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Lightly spray with oil.

3. Air-fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

Option 3: Deep-Fried (Ultimate Crunch)

1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F (175°C).

2. Carefully drop coated cauliflower florets into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

3. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Pepper Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt vegan butter over low heat.

2. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.

Step 4: Toss & Serve

1. Place cooked cauliflower bites in a large bowl. Pour the lemon pepper sauce over them and toss until well coated.

2. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce like vegan ranch or garlic aioli.