If you’ve ever craved a snack that’s vibrant, flavorful, and downright addictive, look no further than this *Blistered Shishito Peppers with Garlic Butter Recipe*. These little peppers burst with a smoky char and are enhanced by a rich, garlicky butter glaze that makes each bite a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a quick, satisfying side, this recipe is simple to execute and impossible to resist. Trust me, once you try making these at home, they may quickly become your new favorite go-to appetizer or snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of shiny green peppers cooked in a black pan. There is a small pile of finely chopped white garlic placed on top of the peppers. The peppers have a slightly wrinkled texture with some dark char marks, and their bright green color contrasts with the black pan. The overall look is fresh and vibrant, with the garlic adding a bit of texture and color variety. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. Every ingredient is easy to find and plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor, from the spicy hint in the peppers to the creamy butter perfectly marrying the garlic’s aroma.

2 tsp avocado oil: Its high smoke point makes it ideal for giving the peppers a perfect, blistered char without burning.
8 ounces shishito peppers: The star of the show, these mild peppers offer just enough subtle heat and a beautiful bright green color.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust, aromatic punch that enhances the overall indulgence of the dish.
1 Tbsp unsalted butter: Brings buttery richness and helps coat the peppers in that irresistible garlic flavor.
Sea salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the natural flavors and provide balance.

How to Make Blistered Shishito Peppers with Garlic Butter Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Peppers

Begin by rinsing the shishito peppers under cold running water and patting them completely dry. Getting rid of excess moisture is crucial to ensure they blister perfectly instead of steaming in the pan.

Step 2: Heat Your Skillet

Place a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add two teaspoons of avocado oil. The pan should be sizzling hot before you add the peppers – a quick flick of water that sizzles confirms you’re ready to go. This step is key to achieving that signature blistered texture and smoky flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Peppers

Add the dry shishito peppers to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 6 minutes, stirring every minute to ensure they char evenly without burning. You’ll notice the skins start to wrinkle and develop those beautiful blackened spots that are so delicious.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Butter

Once the peppers are blistered, stir in the minced garlic and the tablespoon of unsalted butter. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the butter to melt and coat each pepper while the garlic releases its fragrant essence. This meld of flavors takes the dish from good to absolutely irresistible.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finish with a generous sprinkle of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. These simple seasonings perfectly balance the rich garlic butter and smoky peppers. For an extra zing, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon or lime juice over the top or serve with wedges on the side.

How to Serve Blistered Shishito Peppers with Garlic Butter Recipe

The image shows a black cast iron pan filled with shiny, blistered green peppers that have a slightly wrinkled texture, some parts browned from cooking. The peppers are arranged randomly, covering the pan's bottom layer fully. The pan rests on a white marbled surface, with an orange cloth folded near the handle of the pan. A wooden pepper grinder is placed nearby on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh, bright garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully. A scattering of toasted sesame seeds adds crunch and a subtle nuttiness, while a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro can introduce a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich garlic butter.

Side Dishes

These blistered shishitos make an excellent side for grilled meats, seafood, or even accompanying a hearty grain bowl. Their smoky, buttery flavor pairs brilliantly with simple mains like roasted chicken or a juicy steak, offering a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these peppers on a wooden board with some crusty bread to sop up the delicious garlic butter. Alternatively, toss them into a warm tortilla with some crumbled queso fresco and a squeeze of lime for a quick and tasty appetizer that doubles as a snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind the peppers are best enjoyed fresh, but properly stored, they retain much of their flavor and texture.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the texture of the peppers will become mushy when thawed due to their high water content. It’s best to enjoy this Blistered Shishito Peppers with Garlic Butter Recipe fresh to maintain that perfect bite.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the peppers in a skillet over medium heat just until heated through. This will help restore some of the original blistered texture and keep the garlic butter luscious without overcooking the peppers.

FAQs

Are shishito peppers spicy?

Shishito peppers are generally mild, but there’s a fun twist—about one in every ten peppers can pop with a surprising burst of heat, making eating them a delightful little game of spicy roulette.

Can I use olive oil instead of avocado oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil, but avocado oil is preferred for this recipe because it has a higher smoke point, allowing the peppers to blister perfectly without burning the oil.

What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

A heavy-bottomed stainless steel or non-stick skillet can work as well, just make sure it heats evenly and gets hot enough to blister the peppers properly.

How should I adjust the recipe for more servings?

Simply multiply the ingredients proportionally and cook the peppers in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough to keep them in a single layer; overcrowding will steam rather than blister them.

Can I add other seasonings?

Absolutely! A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chili flakes can add depth and a bit more kick to this already flavorful dish.

Final Thoughts

This Blistered Shishito Peppers with Garlic Butter Recipe is one of those simple yet stunning dishes that bring so much joy to the table. Its perfect blend of smoky, garlicky, and buttery flavors wrapped up in a quick cook time makes it a winner every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your friends and family—it truly is a snack that makes any occasion a little brighter.