Stuffed Shishito Peppers Recipe

Shishito Peppers are a delightful treat that has taken the culinary world by storm. If you’re looking for a unique appetizer or snack to impress your guests, the Stuffed Shishito Peppers Recipe is your answer. These flavorful peppers, filled with creamy cheese and savory salami, are perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties. Their combination of taste and texture makes them a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can make these delicious stuffed peppers without breaking a sweat.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and salami offers a rich and savory filling that perfectly complements the mild shishito peppers.
• Versatile Appetizer: Serve them warm at parties or as a snack while watching your favorite show—these stuffed peppers fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their unique taste and presentation, these stuffed shishito peppers are sure to impress your family and friends.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to swap out ingredients or add spices to cater to your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect stuffed shishito peppers, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Paring knife
• Mixing bowl
• Teaspoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for broiling the peppers, ensuring they blister evenly.
• Parchment paper: Keeps cleanup easy and prevents sticking during cooking.
• Paring knife: Ideal for making precise cuts in the shishito peppers without damaging them.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

• 1/2 lb shishito peppers
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 4 oz dry salami (diced)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

How to Make Stuffed Shishito Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature.
2. Move the oven rack to the middle position and turn on the broiler.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Dice the salami into small pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, diced salami, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Stir until all ingredients are blended thoroughly.

Step 3: Prepare the Peppers

1. Lay the shishito peppers out on a lined baking sheet.
2. Using a small paring knife, cut a slit down one side of each pepper from below the stem almost to the tip.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

1. Using a teaspoon, carefully fill each pepper cavity with the cream cheese mixture.
2. Press the sides together gently to hold in the filling.

Step 5: Broil and Serve

1. Spray all stuffed shishitos with cooking spray or drizzle olive oil over them.
2. Place the tray in the oven and broil for about 5 minutes until they blister and the cheese filling turns golden brown.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

This simple yet satisfying recipe makes about 30 stuffed shishito peppers, perfect for sharing—or enjoying all by yourself!

How to Serve Stuffed Shishito Peppers Recipe

Stuffed Shishito Peppers are a delightful appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect for gatherings or as a snack, and can be paired with different dips and sides to elevate the experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream: A cool and creamy complement that balances the heat of the peppers.
• Spicy Aioli: Adds a kick with garlic and chili flavors, enhancing the overall taste.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Offers a sweet contrast to the savory filling, making each bite exciting.

As Part of a Platter

• Charcuterie Board: Include stuffed shishitos alongside meats and cheeses for an impressive spread.
• Vegetable Platter: Pair with fresh veggies and hummus for a colorful, healthy option.
• Tapas Selection: Serve with other small bites like olives and cheese for a complete tapas experience.

On Top of Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: Add these peppers on top of your favorite salad for a unique twist.
• Grain Bowl: Incorporate them into grain bowls for extra flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shishito Peppers Recipe

To make your stuffed shishito peppers truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Peppers: Look for firm, bright green shishitos to ensure the best flavor.
• Soften Cream Cheese: Let it sit at room temperature to make mixing easier and achieve a smoother filling.
• Don’t Overstuff: Fill each pepper just enough to keep them intact while cooking; this prevents the filling from spilling out.
• Broil Carefully: Keep an eye on the oven while broiling to avoid burning; golden brown is key!
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to swap salami with other meats or add herbs for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shishito Peppers Recipe

Stuffed Shishito Peppers can be complemented beautifully by various side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter adds a satisfying crunch.
2. Potato Wedges: Crispy seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty balance.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw brings crunch and acidity that pairs well with the rich filling.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds healthiness and texture, making it a great pairing.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted sprouts offer a crunchy contrast that elevates your meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad provides freshness, balancing the spicy peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Stuffed Shishito Peppers, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not Softening Cream Cheese: Using cold cream cheese can make it hard to mix with other ingredients. Always let it sit at room temperature before mixing.
• Overfilling the Peppers: Stuffing too much filling can cause them to burst during cooking. Fill each pepper just enough to hold the filling without overflowing.
• Skipping the Cooking Spray: Not spraying the peppers can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. A light mist of cooking spray ensures they blister nicely without sticking.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Broiling for too long can burn the peppers. Keep an eye on them, as they only need about 5 minutes under the broiler.
• Using Unripe Peppers: Unripe shishito peppers may lack flavor and texture. Choose bright green, firm peppers for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store stuffed shishito peppers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Shishito Peppers Recipe

• Place stuffed peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Stuffed Shishito Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Stuffed Shishito Peppers Recipe:

Can I make Stuffed Shishito Peppers ahead of time?

You can prepare the peppers and stuff them ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and cook when ready.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?

You might use ricotta or goat cheese as alternatives if you want a different flavor profile.

How spicy are shishito peppers?

Shishito peppers are generally mild, but occasionally one may surprise you with heat.

What should I serve with Stuffed Shishito Peppers?

These make a great appetizer or snack and pair well with dips like ranch or tzatziki sauce.

Final Thoughts

The Stuffed Shishito Peppers Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the filling with various ingredients like cheese or vegetables. Try making these tasty bites for your next gathering!