Discover the ultimate snack or appetizer with these Air-Fried Shishito Peppers paired with a zesty garlic-lemon dipping sauce. Smoky, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for gatherings or as a quick afternoon treat. Elevate your snack game with these vibrant peppers and a tangy, creamy dip that will leave everyone reaching for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick and easy to make, with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. Air-frying brings out the peppers’ natural sweetness with a smoky, charred flavor, making it a healthier and versatile option for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dipping Sauce:
Sour cream, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and finely chopped green onion come together to create a creamy, zesty, and aromatic sauce.
For the Peppers:
Mild shishito peppers are coated in a blend of vegetable oil and sesame oil for crispiness and flavor. They’re seasoned with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a touch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch to finish.
Tips for Success
- Even Coating: Toss the peppers well to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the peppers in batches if needed to achieve a perfect blister.
- Watch Closely: Shishito peppers cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. They should blister and char slightly but still retain their bright green color.
- Fresh is Best: Serve the peppers immediately after cooking for optimal taste and texture.
- Adjust Spice: Add more red pepper flakes if you like them spicier or skip them for a milder version.
Looking for more delicious air fryer recipes? Pair these shishito peppers with flavorful main dishes like Air Fryer Steak, BBQ Chicken Drumsticks, or Crispy Chicken Drumsticks for a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the oil for a fiery kick.
- Boost Flavor: Toss with smoked paprika or garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
- Creative Dips: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a lighter, creamier dip.
- International Flavors: Add soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist, or mix in tahini for a Mediterranean touch.
Storing Tips
- Shishito Peppers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispness.
- Dipping Sauce: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Stir before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pepper?
Yes! Padron peppers or other small, mild peppers work well, but cooking times may vary.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can roast the peppers in an oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10–15 minutes, turning halfway through.
How far in advance can I make the dipping sauce?
The sauce can be prepared up to a week ahead and stored in the fridge.
Air-Fried Shishito Peppers with Garlic-Lemon Dipping Sauce
Ingredients
For the Garlic-Lemon Dipping Sauce:
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 1 Green Onion both white and green parts finely chopped
For the Shishito Peppers:
- 8 ounces Shishito Peppers
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil
- 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
- Kosher Salt to taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds toasted
Instructions
Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- o In a small mixing bowl, combine sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, and green onion.
- o Stir until well mixed.
- o Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cook the Peppers:
- In a medium bowl, toss the Shishito peppers with vegetable oil to coat evenly.
- Place the peppers in the basket of the air fryer.
- Set the air fryer to 400ºF (200ºC) and cook for 6 minutes, or until the peppers are lightly charred and blistered, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Finish and Serve:
- Once cooked, transfer the peppers to a serving bowl.
- Drizzle with sesame oil, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Add red pepper flakes and toasted sesame seeds, and toss everything together to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Serve the warm peppers immediately alongside the chilled garlic-lemon dipping sauce.
Notes
- Air frying Shishito peppers brings out a delightful smokiness while keeping them crisp-tender, making them an irresistible treat.
- The creamy dipping sauce balances the slight heat of the peppers with its cool, tangy undertones.
- This recipe is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared a few hours in advance for convenience.
