Blistered Shishito Peppers with the Best Dip

Ingredients

• 8 oz shishito peppers
• 1 Tbsp light olive oil
• 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt (or to taste)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 garlic clove (pressed)
• 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt (or added to taste)
• 1/8 tsp black pepper

Steps

1. 1

   Rinse peppers and dry thoroughly with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, toss the peppers together with the oil.

2. 2

   Heat a large 12” cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Let it heat for about 2 minutes or until the pan is hot and just starting to smoke. Carefully add peppers in a single layer and let them sear until blistered and browned on the first side, about 2-3 minutes.

3. 3

   Turn the peppers over with tongs and let them sear on the second side until blistered, about 2 minutes.

4. 4

   Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle to taste with salt and grate lemon zest over the top. Serve with aioli dipping sauce if desired.*