Blistered Shishito Peppers with the Best Dip

This blistered Shishito peppers recipe is the perfect balance of smoky, crispy, and savory. When seared to perfection, Shishito peppers offer a mild heat with an occasional surprise kick! Paired with a tangy and creamy garlic aioli, this dish becomes an irresistible appetizer or snack. Simple to prepare, these peppers are bursting with flavor and a delightful texture.

Ingredients

For the Shishito Peppers:

• 8 oz Shishito peppers
• 1 Tbsp light olive oil
• 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt (or to taste)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

For the Garlic Aioli:

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 garlic clove, pressed
• 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/8 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Rinse the Shishito peppers and dry them thoroughly with paper towels. Toss the peppers in a mixing bowl with olive oil to coat evenly.
2. Blister the Peppers: Heat a large 12” cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to get hot, about 2 minutes, or until it starts to smoke slightly. Add the peppers in a single layer and cook until they are blistered and browned on one side, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Flip and Cook: Using tongs, turn the peppers over and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the second side is blistered.
4. Serve: Transfer the peppers to a serving bowl and sprinkle with flaky sea salt to taste. Grate lemon zest over the top if desired. Serve the peppers with the garlic aioli for dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Quick: This dish comes together in under 10 minutes, making it the perfect last-minute snack or appetizer.
• Packed with Flavor: The blistering process intensifies the natural sweetness of Shishito peppers, while the garlic aioli adds a creamy and tangy contrast.
• Versatile: These peppers can be served as a starter, snack, or side dish with your favorite meal.
• Healthy: Shishito peppers are low in calories and high in antioxidants, making this a nutritious choice.

Tips

• Pan Temperature: Ensure your pan is properly heated before adding the peppers. A hot pan will create those signature blistered spots.
• Serving Size: Depending on your guest count, you can easily double or halve the ingredients for larger or smaller portions.
• Aioli Flavor: Adjust the garlic and lemon juice amounts to your taste. Add extra garlic for a more pronounced flavor or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: For those who love spice, sprinkle some chili flakes or cayenne pepper over the peppers before serving.
• Vegan Aioli: Swap the mayonnaise for a vegan version to make this recipe fully plant-based.
• Roasted Peppers: Instead of pan-searing, you can also roast the peppers in the oven at 400°F for 8-10 minutes for a different flavor profile.
• Herbed Aioli: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the aioli for a fresh twist.

FAQs

• Can I use other types of peppers? Yes! You can substitute Shishito peppers with other mild, small peppers like Padron or Padrón peppers, although Shishito peppers are traditionally used for this recipe.
• How can I make the aioli spicier? If you prefer a spicier aioli, you can add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic aioli mix.
• Can I make this ahead? While the peppers are best served fresh, you can prepare the aioli ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.

Serving

• Perfect Pairings: Serve these blistered peppers with a side of crispy fries, a refreshing salad, or grilled meats like chicken or fish.
• Snack or Appetizer: These peppers are great as a snack with drinks or as part of a tapas spread. Serve with a selection of dips like guacamole or hummus for variety.

Suggestions

• Garnish: For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
• Make it a Meal: For a more substantial meal, serve these peppers as a topping for tacos, wraps, or grilled chicken.