Blistered Shishito Peppers with Citrus Pesto Dip

My recipe for Blistered Shishito Peppers appeared first on Sunday Supper Movement, where I am a contributor.

Mildly spicy blistered shishito peppers tossed with olive oil, lemon and salt are paired with a fresh citrus pesto dip for the perfect finger food appetizer.

Meet your new favorite finger food! These tender peppers are great paired with drinks, and will be your most requested appetizer. You certainly can’t eat just one! Blistered shishito peppers are easy to make and become addictive with the olive oil coating, smoky char marks, fresh squeezed lemon and plenty of crunchy salt. You can get creative with additional seasonings too!

What are shishito peppers?

Shishito peppers are a variety of chili pepper that are harvested while green and used often in East Asian cooking. They’re small, long, and thin, and blister quickly when tossed with oil. Their color is bright green and the texture is tender and a bit wrinkly. To make a comparison they’re most similar to padron peppers.

What does a shishito pepper taste like?

Shishito peppers are sweet with just a little heat. They have a light crunchy texture and a slight smoky flavor which is intensified by charring. Shishito pepper seeds are soft and do not need to be removed to eat. They are mostly near the stem and you can eat right up to them.

Are shishito peppers hot?

No. Shishito peppers may have the shape of a hotter variety but they are quite mild. It’s said that one in ten will surprise you with more heat.

Shishito Peppers Recipe Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make blistered shishito peppers and pesto sauce:

For Shishito Peppers:

• 2 dozen shishito peppers
• 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• juice of 1 lemon
• sea salt

For Citrus Pesto Dip:

• 4 bunches parsley, large stems removed
• juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tbsp black pepper
• 1 /4 tbsp salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Where to Buy Shishito Peppers

These Japanese peppers are not always easy to find, although based on their current popularity we may see that start to change! Ours are from Trader Joe’s and you can also buy them at an Asian market. If going to a grocery store chain it’s best to call your local store to see if they have any before making a special trip!

How to Cook Shishito Peppers

This shishito peppers recipe with creamy pesto sauce is so easy to prepare. Here’s how to do it:

For Shishito Peppers:

1. Wash and dry peppers.
2. Heat a large heavy skillet (like cast iron) to medium-high.
3. Toss peppers in olive oil and add to skillet.
4. Cook in batches depending on the size of your pan. Cook until blistered in a few places, then flip to blister on the other side.
5. Remove from heat to a bowl. Add lemon juice and sprinkle with salt. Toss and serve.

For Citrus Pesto Dip:

1. Blend all ingredients except oil in a food processor until well-combined.
2. Slowly add oil and continue to process until combined.
3. Place in a bowl for dipping.

You could also toss the peppers on your grill in a grill basket. They are perfect for a summer barbecue and with Citrus Pesto Dip they are out of this world!

What to Serve with Blistered Shishito Peppers

Shishito peppers would be great among other appetizers for a tapas-style party. Here are some good ones to consider:

• Soft Pretzels (great with Beer Cheese!)
• Fried Oysters
• Fried Okra
• Button Mushrooms

Have you had blistered peppers before? How about with a pesto dip? I’d love to hear what you think in the comments below!