Wash and peel the sweet potatoes if you prefer. Trim the ends and cut into 1/2- to 3/4-inch cubes so they cook evenly.
Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Sprinkle the cornstarch over them and toss until they are lightly coated — this helps create a crisp exterior.
Drizzle the olive oil over the coated cubes. Add salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne if using. Toss gently but thoroughly so every cube is evenly seasoned.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. If your model requires no preheat, set it to the same temperature and let it warm for a moment while you prepare the basket.
Arrange the sweet potato cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding — you want space for hot air to circulate. If needed, cook in two batches.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Shake the basket or use tongs to flip the cubes halfway through to encourage even browning.
Continue air frying for an additional 6–8 minutes, or until the cubes are tender inside and crisp and caramelized on the outside. Total cook time usually runs 16–18 minutes depending on cube size and air fryer model.
Remove the sweet potatoes to a serving bowl. Immediately toss with fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
Serve warm as a side dish, a hearty salad topper, or a snack with your favorite dip. Leftovers can be gently reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to revive the crispness.