Get ready to transform your appetizer game with the most addictive, crowd-pleasing dish that'll have everyone begging for more! Shishito peppers are the culinary secret weapon you never knew you needed – a delightful Japanese delicacy that's simultaneously simple to prepare and mind-blowingly delicious. Imagine perfectly charred, blistered peppers with a smoky exterior and a hint of citrusy brightness that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick, impressive side dish, these grilled shishito peppers are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz shishito peppers
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the grill or a cast-iron skillet by heating it to medium-high heat. Ensure the cooking surface is clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Rinse the shishito peppers thoroughly under cool running water and pat them completely dry using paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent proper charring.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the shishito peppers with olive oil, ensuring each pepper is evenly coated. This will help promote even cooking and prevent burning.
- Carefully place the peppers directly on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides get a nice char and blistered appearance.
- While peppers are cooking, zest the entire lemon and combine the zest with sea salt in a small bowl. This will create a fragrant lemon sea salt seasoning.
- Once peppers are charred and slightly softened, remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter.
- Immediately sprinkle the lemon sea salt mixture over the hot peppers, allowing the heat to release the lemon's aromatic oils.
- Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the peppers for an extra bright, citrusy finish.
- Serve immediately while hot, as shishito peppers are best enjoyed right after cooking when they are crisp and smoky.
Tips
- Heat is Key: Ensure your grill or skillet is truly hot before adding peppers. This guarantees that perfect char and prevents soggy peppers.
- Dry Matters: Pat those peppers completely dry before cooking. Moisture is the enemy of a good char!
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary. Peppers need space to blister properly.
- Watch Carefully: Shishito peppers cook quickly. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with different salts – smoked salt or flavored sea salts can add an extra dimension.
- Surprise Factor: About one in ten shishito peppers is spicy, so each bite is a delicious adventure!
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg