Crispy Air Fryer Banana Peppers

Alyssa

Make crispy, flavorful Air Fryer Banana Peppers with a light coating, perfect as an appetizer or snack for any occasion.

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1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the main coating that gives the peppers their crunchy texture. You can replace it with a gluten-free flour blend if you are adhering to a gluten-free diet.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Garlic powder brings a robust flavor to the peppers enhancing their taste significantly. For a fresher option, you could use minced fresh garlic but keep in mind it might alter the texture.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: This ingredient adds a hint of heat without overwhelming the mild flavor of the banana peppers.
2 teaspoons sea salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Feel free to reduce the amount if you are watching your sodium intake.
1 pound fresh banana peppers: The star of the dish! Choose peppers that are firm and free from blemishes. For a twist you might experiment with different types of peppers that suit your flavor profile.
Olive oil spray: A light misting of oil helps the flour adhere to the peppers and achieve that perfect golden brown color. Alternative oils like avocado or coconut oil can also work well.

Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and 2 teaspoons of sea salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 350° F. This is an important step that helps ensure even cooking and browning of the peppers.
Coat the Peppers: Take your sliced banana peppers (ensuring you have removed the seeds) and dip them into the flour mixture. For a thicker coating, allow them to sit for 5 minutes after coating.
Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the coated banana peppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow for proper air circulation.
Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the peppers with olive oil. This step is key to obtaining that crispy texture.
Air Fry: Cook the banana peppers in the air fryer for about 8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, transfer the banana peppers to a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Let them drain for a few moments to remove excess oil, allowing them to cool for 5 minutes.
Serve: These crispy treats can be served warm with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Banana Peppers as a snack or topping for other dishes!