As a cooking enthusiast who loves experimenting with flavors, I’m always looking for fun and easy dishes that are packed with taste. One of my favorites lately is Air Fryer Shishito Peppers. These little peppers are a perfect combination of smokiness and mild heat. With the air fryer, you can make them crispy on the outside, while still tender on the inside, in no time. The result is a delicious snack or side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals.
The best part about Air Fryer Shishito Peppers is how simple they are to prepare. You don’t need any complicated ingredients or techniques – just a few simple steps and you’re on your way to a crispy, flavorful treat. Whether you’re making them as an appetizer for a gathering or just craving something savory to munch on, these peppers won’t disappoint. Let’s dive into how to make them, and trust me, you’ll be adding this recipe to your rotation in no time!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Shishito Peppers: Shishito peppers are small, green, and mild chili peppers. They have a thin skin that crisps up beautifully when cooked, making them ideal for air frying. About one in every ten peppers can be a little spicier, adding an exciting surprise to each bite. These peppers are the star of the dish, so be sure to get fresh, firm peppers for the best results.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps crisp up the peppers, adding flavor and a little richness. A light drizzle is all you need to coat the peppers and enhance their natural taste. You can also use other oils like avocado or vegetable oil, but olive oil is perfect for its flavor profile and health benefits.
Salt: A pinch of salt is essential to bring out the natural sweetness of the peppers and to balance the mild heat. Sea salt or kosher salt works best here, but any salt will do in a pinch.
Lemon (optional): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty kick to the peppers, enhancing their overall flavor. You can add this after they’re cooked to freshen them up, but it’s optional depending on your taste preferences.
Garlic Powder (optional): Garlic powder gives the peppers a subtle depth of flavor. It’s an optional ingredient, but I love how it pairs with the smoky, charred flavor that develops when the peppers are air fried.
Sesame Seeds (optional): For added texture and a slight nuttiness, sprinkle some sesame seeds over the cooked peppers. This is a fun way to elevate the dish, and it’s optional, but I highly recommend it if you want a little extra flair.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb Shishito Peppers
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- ½ teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (optional)
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Sesame Seeds (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Shishito Peppers
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Rinse the shishito peppers under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure that they’re not wet, which could affect how they crisp up in the air fryer. Trim the stems off the peppers if you prefer, but it’s not necessary.
Step 2: Toss the Peppers with Oil and Seasoning
In a large bowl, drizzle the shishito peppers with olive oil and toss them gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle with salt and, if using, garlic powder. You can also add a bit of pepper or other seasonings based on your preference.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps achieve an even cook and crispy texture for the peppers. Air frying the peppers at this temperature will help them blister and crisp up perfectly.
Step 4: Air Fry the Peppers
Arrange the shishito peppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd them, as this will prevent them from crisping properly. Air fry the peppers for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Once the peppers are crispy and slightly charred, remove them from the air fryer. If desired, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top to add brightness, and sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest peppers, ensure they are spread out in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking.
- Adjust the Heat: If you like your peppers extra crispy or charred, feel free to add a few extra minutes of cooking time. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Spice It Up: If you want a little more heat, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes before air frying the peppers.
- Add Toppings: After air frying, you can drizzle some soy sauce or sprinkle some parmesan cheese over the peppers for an extra flavor boost.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While salt and garlic powder are delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with other seasonings like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder to match your taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other peppers for this recipe?
A: While shishito peppers are ideal for this recipe due to their mild heat and texture, you can substitute them with other small chili peppers like padron or even mini bell peppers. Just keep in mind that the flavor and heat level may vary.
Q: How can I store leftover Air Fryer Shishito Peppers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Q: Are Shishito Peppers spicy?
A: Shishito peppers are generally mild, but about one in every ten peppers can have a bit of heat. It’s part of the fun – you never know when you’ll get a spicy one!
Q: Can I make these peppers without oil?
A: Yes! If you’re looking for an oil-free version, you can skip the oil and use a non-stick spray or air fryer liners. The peppers may not be as crispy, but they will still cook through and have a wonderful flavor.
Enjoy these crispy, smoky Air Fryer Shishito Peppers as a tasty snack or appetizer, and feel free to get creative with seasonings and toppings!