Fried Italian Sweet Peppers: A Classic Summer Side Dish Recipe
Fried Italian Sweet Peppers are a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the taste of summer to your table. These sweet, pan-fried peppers are perfect as a side dish, topping for sandwiches, or accompaniment to Italian sausage, eggs, and pasta. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Italian-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Italian sweet peppers look for long, thin varieties
- Neutral oil like avocado, canola, or vegetable oil
- Coarse sea salt
- Fresh basil leaves optional, but highly recommended
Instructions
- Prep the Peppers: Rinse the peppers and pat them dry. You can leave them whole or slice them if you prefer.
- Heat the Oil: Add about ¼ inch of oil to a large skillet or Dutch oven and heat it over medium-high heat.
- Fry the Peppers: Place the peppers in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan!) and let them brown on one side before flipping. This takes about 15-20 minutes total.
- Season and Serve: Transfer the peppers to a platter, sprinkle with coarse sea salt, and garnish with fresh basil.
- Pro Tip: Don’t rush the process. Let the peppers brown slowly for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use long, thin-skinned Italian frying peppers for the best results.
- Neutral oils like avocado, canola, or vegetable oil work well for frying.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper browning and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.