Blistered Shishito Peppers for Holiday Appetizer Boards
Blistered Shishito Peppers are a quick and flavorful holiday appetizer perfect for boards or casual snacking. Lightly charred in a cast iron skillet and seasoned with lime zest, lime juice, flaky sea salt, and umami-rich bonito flakes, these peppers are easy to prepare and packed with vibrant, zesty flavor and a hint of smokiness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Shishito Peppers
- 2 1/2 cups shishito peppers
- 1 1/2 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 2 tsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
- 1 Tbsp bonito flakes
Instructions
- Toss the peppers: In a medium bowl, combine the shishito peppers with olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, and flaky sea salt. Toss until all peppers are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Heat the skillet: Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to get hot. This high heat is essential for blistering the peppers properly.
- Cook the peppers: Add the seasoned peppers to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for approximately 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the skins are blistered and charred in spots.
- Serve with bonito flakes: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the blistered peppers to a serving bowl. Immediately sprinkle the bonito flakes over the peppers to add savory depth, then serve right away for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Shishito peppers are mild but occasionally have a spicy one, so eat with caution if you’re sensitive to heat.
- Use a cast iron skillet for best blistering results due to its ability to retain high heat evenly.
- Bonito flakes add umami; omit for a vegetarian version or substitute with toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately, as the peppers lose their crisp texture when cooled.
- Adjust the lime juice and sea salt to your taste preference.