Air Fryer Blooming Onion with Zesty Dipping Sauce: Crispy, Healthy & Absolutely Irresistible

If you love restaurant-style appetizers but want to enjoy them in a healthier way at home, this Air Fryer Blooming Onion is exactly what you need. Golden, crispy, full of flavor, and paired with a bold, zesty dipping sauce—it’s the perfect snack, side dish, or party favorite. And the best part? No deep frying required!

This detailed, step-by-step recipe will guide you through creating a stunning blooming onion in your air fryer that’s as delicious as it looks, without the excess oil. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting guests, or just treating yourself, this blooming onion is sure to impress.

Why Choose an Air Fryer Version?

Air fryers have changed the way we cook indulgent foods. Here’s why this method is better:

• Less Oil: Up to 80% less oil than deep frying, making it heart-healthier.
• Crispy Texture: Still delivers the crunch you crave.
• Faster Cooking: No preheating or oil heating required.
• Easy Cleanup: Fewer dishes and no greasy mess.

Ingredients

For the Onion:

• 1 large sweet onion (like Vidalia or white onion)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• Cooking spray (olive oil or vegetable oil spray)

For the Zesty Dipping Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon horseradish (optional, for a kick)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• A dash of cayenne or hot sauce (to taste)
• Juice of half a lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make a Blooming Onion in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Cut the Onion into a Bloom

• Peel the onion and slice off a small piece from the bottom to keep it stable.
• Place it root-side down, then cut downward into 4 even sections without slicing all the way through.
• Rotate and continue cutting to get 8 or 16 petals, depending on the size of the onion.
• Carefully separate the layers slightly with your fingers to help the “bloom” open up.
• Soak the onion in ice water for 30 minutes. This helps it bloom further and makes it easier to coat.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

• In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
• In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.

Step 3: Coat the Onion

• Remove the onion from the water and pat it dry.
• Dredge the onion in the dry flour mixture, making sure every petal is coated.
• Then dip it into the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing it to soak in.
• Return it to the flour mixture for a second coating. Press gently to ensure good coverage.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

• Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for a few minutes.
• Spray the entire coated onion with cooking spray until well covered.
• Place it in the air fryer basket, cut side up.
• Cook for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Check occasionally to avoid burning and respray if needed for extra crunch.

Make the Dipping Sauce

While the onion cooks, prepare the dipping sauce:

• Combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
• Mix well and refrigerate for at least 10–15 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Tips for Success

• Use a sharp knife to get clean cuts in the onion.
• Always soak the onion in ice water—it helps the petals bloom.
• Don’t skip the second flour coating—it adds extra crunch.
• Spray oil is essential to get that golden color in the air fryer.
• Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.

Make It Your Own

• Spicy Version: Add more cayenne or hot sauce to the coating or sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch.
• Vegan Option: Substitute plant-based milk with vinegar (to mimic buttermilk) and skip the egg with a flaxseed mixture.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g

Final Thoughts

The Air Fryer Blooming Onion is the best of both worlds—crispy, flavorful, and healthier than its deep-fried cousin. It’s an eye-catching appetizer that’s as fun to eat as it is to serve. The zesty dipping sauce takes it over the top and keeps everyone coming back for more. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies

Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below, share your photos, and don’t forget to pin it or share it with your foodie friends!