Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched streets of Italy with this mouthwatering recipe for Friggitelli Peppers! These golden, crispy, and incredibly flavorful peppers are not just a side dish – they're a culinary experience that will transform your everyday meals into a Mediterranean feast. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply craving a taste of authentic Italian cuisine, these fried peppers are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g friggitelli peppers
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the friggitelli peppers thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry completely with clean kitchen paper towels to ensure crisp frying.
- Trim the stems of the peppers, removing any blemishes or tough parts. If desired, remove seeds for a milder flavor, though traditional preparation typically keeps seeds intact.
- Heat olive oil in a large, wide skillet over medium-high heat. The pan should be large enough to allow peppers to cook in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic, which can make it bitter.
- Carefully add the prepared friggitelli peppers to the skillet. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking and proper caramelization.
- Cook the peppers for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, turning them gently with tongs to achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and slight charring.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper during the cooking process, adjusting to taste.
- Once peppers are tender and have developed a rich, slightly blistered exterior, remove from heat.
- Transfer the fried peppers to a serving platter, allowing excess oil to drain slightly.
- Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves just before serving to add a fragrant, aromatic finish.
- Serve immediately while hot, either as a side dish or appetizer. These peppers are best enjoyed warm and can be paired with crusty bread or as a complement to grilled meats.
Tips
- Drying is Key: Ensure your peppers are completely dry before frying to achieve that perfect crispy exterior and prevent oil splattering.
- Choose the Right Pan: Use a large, wide skillet that allows peppers to cook in a single layer for even caramelization.
- Watch the Garlic: Sauté garlic briefly to release flavor without burning – burnt garlic can make the entire dish bitter.
- Temperature Control: Maintain a medium-high heat to get that beautiful golden-brown color without burning the peppers.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook peppers in batches if necessary to ensure they have enough space to fry properly.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh basil for garnishing to add a bright, aromatic finish to the dish.
- Serve Immediately: These peppers are at their absolute best when served hot and fresh from the pan.Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a splash of good quality balsamic vinegar just before serving!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg