Air Fryer Mini Peppers Recipe

These Air Fryer Mini Peppers are simple but taste great. All they need is a little olive oil, some garlic and onion powder, and a hint of smoked paprika to become a nutritious snack or side dish that’s hard to walk away from.

Not only are these slippery little buggers low in calories (it would take a ton to reach a similar number of calories as a bag of potato chips), but they’re also super high in vitamins A and C. And let me tell you: when you sprinkle them with grated Parmesan (goodbye, flavorless nutritional yeast!), they become practically irresistible.

Of course, you could eat them plain. Or you could eat them with a side of guac.

Ingredients

Sweet Mini Peppers: Full of flavor, these are low-cal and packed with vitamin C, bringing sweetness and texture to any dish.

Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that amplifies taste and promotes nutrient absorption.

Powdered Garlic: Furnishes powerful taste; has antioxidants and antibacterial qualities.

Paprika de la Vera: Adiciona una profundidad levemente picante y ahumada; repleta de antioxidantes.

Parmesan cheese: Not required, but a good ingredient for savory richness and a bit of protein.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound mini sweet peppers
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. To obtain the best results when air frying, it is important to preheat the appliance. Set the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to run for 5 minutes before adding the food to the basket.

2. The mini sweet peppers should be washed and dried. Next, they are cut in half and any seeds are removed.

3. In a spacious bowl, mix the halves of the pepper with enough olive oil to coat them evenly.

4. Strew the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper about the peppers.

5. Ensure the seasoning mixture thoroughly coats the peppers by tossing them again.

6. If you are using it, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the peppers and gently mix.

7. Place the peppers in a single layer in the basket of the air fryer, cooking in batches if needed to prevent crowding.

8. Cook the peppers in an air fryer for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are tender and a bit charred.

9. Remove the peppers from the air fryer and place them in a dish on the table for serving.

10. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve right away. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Air fryer
2. Knife
3. Cutting board
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cup (optional, if using Parmesan cheese)
7. Tongs or spoon (for mixing)
8. Serving dish

FAQ

• Can I use other spices instead of smoked paprika?Certainly! You are allowed to swap out any spices you fancy for different flavor profiles, whether that be chili powder, cumin, or something else spicy.
• Do I need to cut the mini peppers before cooking?No, mini sweet peppers can be cooked whole in the air fryer. Just wash them and dry them thoroughly.
• How long should I cook the peppers in the air fryer?At 400°F (200°C), roast the mini peppers for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• Is it necessary to add Parmesan cheese?No, Parmesan cheese is not required but it does add a nice savory touch. You can leave it out or use a substitute, like nutritional yeast, if you’re going vegan.
• Can I prepare this recipe in advance?The prepped, seasoned peppers can sit for a bit, but don’t fry them until right before serving, or they might lose their crispiness.
• What is the best way to store leftovers?Keep any leftover food in an airtight container in the fridge for as much as 3 days. To restore their crispness, reheat them for a couple of minutes in the air fryer.

Substitutions and Variations

Mini sweet peppers: In the absence of mini sweet peppers, you may use strips of bell pepper as a substitute.
Olive oil: Use avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
Smoked paprika: You can substitute regular paprika or chipotle powder.
Parmesan cheese: Substitute with finely grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Parsley, fresh: Substitute fresh cilantro or basil for a different garnish option.