Air Fryer Shishito Peppers With Sesame-Ginger Sauce
This recipe features shishito peppers seasoned with avocado oil and sea salt, cooked in an air fryer for a tender texture and slightly charred spots. An optional sesame-ginger sauce combines tamari, rice vinegar, maple syrup, fresh ginger, garlic, and toasted sesame oil to add a sweet and tangy flavor. The peppers can be served warm, either plain or lightly coated with the sauce, providing a flavorful snack or appetizer that highlights the mild heat and crispness of the shishito variety.
Ingredients
- 6 ounces shishito pepper about 20 peppers
- 1 teaspoon avocado oil or other high-heat cooking oil
- salt sea salt, to taste
For the sauce (optional):
- 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce if gluten-free isn't needed
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar or lime juice
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ginger freshly grated
- 1 large clove garlic grated or finely minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil toasted
Instructions
- Wash the peppers and pat dry with a lint-free towel. Optional step: use a skewer to poke a small hole in each pepper (this isn't necessary but may prevent the peppers from splitting open during cooking).
- Place peppers in a large bowl, and use your hands to toss with oil. Sprinkle with a generous pinch of salt.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees. Arrange peppers in a single layer in air fryer, working in batches if needed. Cook for about 7 minutes, shaking/tossing the peppers at the halfway point. In a small bowl, combine the sauce ingredients, if using.
- When done the peppers will be tender and browned in some areas. Serve warm.
Notes
- Leftover cooked shishito peppers keep up to 4 days refrigerated and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
- Reheat in the microwave or air fryer for best results; avoid freezing to preserve texture.
- Optionally poke small holes in peppers before cooking to reduce bursting and maintain appearance.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 3 servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 26
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 26kcal | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.