1. Prepare the cauliflower by removing the stem and cutting it into small florets. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels.

2. Set up three bowls for breading. In the first bowl, mix the flour with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. In the second bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining salt, remaining pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place the beaten eggs in the third bowl.

3. Toss the cauliflower florets in the flour mixture until lightly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

4. Dip each floret into the beaten eggs, allowing extra egg to drip away, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.

5. Arrange the breaded cauliflower pieces in a single layer on a tray while you finish the remaining florets.

6. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the cauliflower bites in the basket in a single layer, working in batches if needed.

7. Air fry for about 11 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy and the cauliflower is tender inside.

8. While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the ranch dip. Add the sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, chives, dill, parsley, dried onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to a blender or bowl. Blend or whisk until smooth.

9. Chill the dip until ready to serve. Serve the crispy cauliflower bites warm with the herbed ranch dip on the side.