Padron peppers

Padron peppers

Padron peppers are quickly blistered in hot olive oil until tender with a touch of char, then simply seasoned with sea salt. This easy tapas dish offers a delightful mix of smoky flavors and vibrant heat levels.

Vegan

Prep Time

5 min

Cook Time

7 min

Servings

2

Padron peppers, originating from the Galicia region of Spain, are a beloved tapa often enjoyed during social gatherings. Known for their mild flavor with an occasional spicy surprise, these small green peppers are ideally suited for quick frying that brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky char. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Spanish street food, highlighting the charm of simplicity with fresh ingredients. The peppers are cooked until just blistered and soft, then sprinkled with crunchy sea salt to enhance their natural taste. Perfect as a standalone snack or as part of a larger tapas spread, Padron peppers pair beautifully with chilled wines and creamy dips. Their playful heat makes them a crowd-pleaser at casual dinners and festive occasions alike.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 500 g Padron peppers

Instructions

First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over high heat until shimmering and hot. Alternatively, preheat your air-fryer to 205°C (400°F) for about 3 minutes to prepare for cooking. Add the 500 grams of Padron peppers to the pan and sauté, stirring frequently. You want to cook them for approximately 5 minutes until they develop a lovely blistered appearance, becoming both soft and slightly charred. The key is to maintain high heat to achieve that perfect smoky flavor while keeping the peppers tender. Once cooked, transfer the peppers to a serving plate. Generously sprinkle sea salt over the top to enhance their natural flavors and add a pleasant crunch. Serve these warm as a delicious snack, alongside dips, or as part of a colorful tapas spread to share with friends. For an extra touch, offer a wedge of lemon on the side to squeeze over the peppers just before eating.

Quick Info

Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
7 min
Total Time
12 min
Servings
2