Air-Fried Peppers And Onions: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryer peppers and onions are a quick, tasty, and healthy side dish that can be made in under 15 minutes. The air fryer gives the vegetables a nice charred texture and they come out tender, but not mushy. This dish is a great topping for fajitas, salads, hot dogs, sandwiches, and pizzas. The recipe is simple and can be customised with different seasonings and types of peppers and onions.

Choosing your peppers and onions

When it comes to choosing your peppers and onions, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, decide on the colour of bell peppers you want to use. You can use any colour, including red, orange, yellow, or green, or a combination of these. Keep in mind that green bell peppers are not as sweet as the other colours and have a slightly bitter taste. If you want a sweeter dish, opt for red, orange, or yellow peppers. You can also use mini sweet bell peppers or poblano peppers if you prefer.

For the onions, red onions are a great choice as they hold their texture and pair well with the sweetness of the peppers. White or yellow onions can also be used, but the dish may not be as sweet. Shallots or leeks can be used as well if you don't have any onions on hand.

When shopping for your peppers and onions, look for fresh, firm vegetables that are in season. Avoid over-ripe vegetables, as they may become mushy and won't hold their shape when cooked in the air fryer.

Make sure to wash your peppers and onions before slicing them. For the peppers, cut them into 1/2-inch strips or slices to ensure even cooking. You can slice the onions in the same way or cut them diagonally to match the shape and size of the pepper strips. Try to cut the peppers and onions to a similar size so they cook evenly in the air fryer.

Preparing the ingredients

Once your veggies are sliced, it's time to season them. Place the peppers and onions in a large bowl or baggie. Drizzle or spray them with your choice of oil, such as avocado oil, extra virgin olive oil, or coconut oil. You can also add spices and seasonings to suit your taste. Some common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, taco seasoning, or curry powder. If you want a kick of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or chilli powder. Give the veggies a good toss or massage to ensure they are evenly coated in oil and seasonings.

Cooking times and temperatures

The cooking time and temperature for air fryer peppers and onions vary depending on the desired texture and level of doneness. Most recipes recommend cooking the vegetables at a temperature between 350°F and 400°F for 10 to 15 minutes. However, the cooking time can be adjusted based on personal preference. For example, cooking the peppers and onions for a shorter period will result in a firmer texture, while extending the cooking time will lead to a softer and more tender result. It is also important to note that the size and thickness of the pepper and onion slices can impact the cooking time. Thicker slices may require a longer cooking time, while thinner slices may cook faster. Additionally, it is recommended to toss or shake the contents of the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

When using an air fryer, it is crucial to consider the size and model of the appliance. Different air fryer brands and models may have varying temperature settings and cooking times. For instance, a larger capacity air fryer may cook the peppers and onions faster, requiring a reduction in cooking time. On the other hand, a smaller air fryer may necessitate halving the recipe to avoid overcrowding the basket, which can lead to uneven cooking. Therefore, it is always advisable to adjust the temperature and timing based on the specific air fryer model and personal preferences for texture and doneness.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer peppers and onions are a versatile dish that can be served as a side or incorporated into a main meal. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy them:

• Fajitas: Peppers and onions are a classic addition to fajitas. You can also add some grilled steak, chicken, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Tacos, burritos, or quesadillas: The peppers and onions can be used as a filling or topping for these dishes.
• Salads: The sweet and flavorful peppers and onions make a great salad topping, adding a burst of colour and taste.
• Omelette or frittata: For a tasty breakfast or brunch option, add the peppers and onions to an omelette or frittata.
• Sandwiches: Try them on hot dogs, brats, grilled cheese sandwiches, or hoagies.
• Pizza topping: Peppers and onions can add a nice flavour and texture contrast to a pizza.
• Bowls: You can add them to meal prep bowls, such as Salsa Verde Chicken Bowls or Carnitas Burrito Bowls.
• With eggs: They go well with eggs and hash browns for a savoury breakfast or brunch.
• Sides for meat: Peppers and onions can be served as a side dish for grilled steak, chicken, or fish.
• Dips: Use the air-fried peppers to make Muhammara, a roasted red pepper and walnut dip.

Reheating and storing

Leftover peppers and onions can be reheated in the air fryer, in the oven, in the microwave, on the stove top, or in a skillet. To reheat in the air fryer, place the vegetables in the basket and air fry for 3-4 minutes, tossing halfway through. In the microwave, place the peppers and onions on a microwave-safe plate or dish, cover with a paper towel or plastic wrap, and heat on full power for 2 minutes, adding 30-second increments until heated through. To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F, place the vegetables in an oven-proof dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes. On the stove top, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat, add the peppers and onions, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, adding water as needed. In a skillet, warm the vegetables for 45-60 seconds, or until heated through.

When storing peppers and onions, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze them in a zip-lock bag for up to 2 months.

Frequently asked questions