Blistered Shishito Peppers Recipe
Introduction
Blistered shishito peppers are a quick and flavorful appetizer or snack that highlight the pepper’s mild heat and smoky char. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces shishito peppers
- Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
- Sea salt
- Lemon wedges (for squeezing, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Add the shishito peppers in a single layer and cook, tossing occasionally, until they are tender and blistered, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Step 2: Remove the skillet from heat. Drizzle the peppers with extra-virgin olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use a cast iron skillet for the best blistering effect and smoky flavor.
- Keep the peppers mostly in a single layer to ensure even cooking and charring.
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of soy sauce for a different flavor twist.
- Serve with a side of aioli or a light dipping sauce to complement the peppers.
Storage
Blistered shishito peppers are best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their blistered skin.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Are shishito peppers spicy?
Shishito peppers are generally mild, with about one in ten peppers packing a mild to moderate heat surprise. Most are very mild and flavorful.
Can I use another type of pan besides cast iron?
Yes, but cast iron works best to achieve the perfect blistering and smokiness. A heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet can work in a pinch, but may not produce the same char.
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Blistered Shishito Peppers Recipe
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Blistered Shishito Peppers are a simple, flavorful appetizer or side dish where mild shishito peppers are quickly cooked in a hot skillet until tender and charred. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt, and an optional squeeze of lemon, this recipe highlights the peppers’ natural smoky, slightly sweet flavor with minimal ingredients and effort.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 ounces shishito peppers
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Sea salt, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for squeezing (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Preheat a large cast iron skillet over high heat until very hot to ensure the peppers will blister properly.
- Cook the peppers: Add the shishito peppers to the dry skillet, spreading them out in a single layer as much as possible. Toss occasionally while cooking for about 6 to 8 minutes until the peppers are tender and have blistered spots on their skin.
- Season and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Drizzle the blistered peppers with extra-virgin olive oil, sprinkle them evenly with sea salt, and if desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
Notes
- Keep the peppers mostly in a single layer for even blistering and better char.
- Use a cast iron or heavy skillet to maintain high and consistent heat.
- Optional lemon juice adds brightness but can be omitted for a more straightforward smoky flavor.
- Shishito peppers are mostly mild, but occasionally one can be spicy—consider this if serving to guests unfamiliar with the pepper.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: blistered shishito peppers, shishito peppers recipe, easy appetizer, cast iron skillet peppers, quick pepper recipe
