Description
Blistered Shishito Peppers are a quick and flavorful appetizer that feature tender peppers charred to perfection in a skillet. Lightly coated with olive oil and sprinkled with flaky sea salt, these peppers are enhanced by a splash of fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy finish. Perfect for sharing, they make a simple yet impressive snack or side dish in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Peppers
- 8 ounces (about 3 heaping cups) shishito peppers
Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil
- Salt, preferably flaky sea salt or kosher salt, to taste
- Lemon wedge, optional, for spritzing
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers: Rinse the shishito peppers thoroughly and pat them dry using a clean tea towel. This ensures the oil will coat evenly and the peppers will blister well during cooking. Transfer the dried peppers into a medium bowl, drizzle with the olive or avocado oil, and toss gently until they are evenly coated. Set the bowl aside while you heat your pan.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a medium skillet over medium heat and allow it to get hot. To test if it’s ready, flick a drop of water onto the pan – it should sizzle and evaporate rapidly. This ensures a high enough heat for blistering the peppers without steaming them.
- Cook the Peppers: Add the oiled shishito peppers to the hot skillet in a single layer if possible. Let them cook, turning every minute or so to allow even blistering without stirring too frequently, which could prevent proper charring. Cook until the peppers become tender and charred in spots, about 8 to 12 minutes.
- Serve: Transfer the blistered peppers to a serving plate. If desired, squeeze the lemon wedge over the peppers to add a bright, citrusy note. Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt or kosher salt to taste. Provide a small bowl on the side for discarded stems, and enjoy immediately while hot.
Notes
- Shishito peppers are generally mild, but occasionally one might be spicy — part of the fun of eating them.
- Use a high smoke point oil like avocado oil if you want a slightly higher cooking temperature or a different flavor profile.
- For extra flavor, you can sprinkle with smoked paprika or a pinch of chili flakes after cooking.
- Serve as an appetizer or side dish paired with grilled meats, seafood, or cocktails.
