Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins

If you’ve been searching for a snack that’s bursting with flavor, golden, and irresistibly crunchy, then you’re going to love this recipe for Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins. This easy-to-make snack brings together the mild heat and tangy zest of banana peppers, transformed into bite-sized, crispy coins using your air fryer. Perfectly crunchy on the outside with just the right amount of tender on the inside, these banana pepper coins are a fun and flavorful way to add a twist to your snacking or dish topping routine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Crunchy Texture: Thanks to the air fryer magic, every banana pepper coin achieves a perfect, irresistible crispiness without excessive oil.
• Quick and Simple Preparation: No long, complicated steps here—this recipe is straightforward with minimal ingredients and prep time.
• Versatile Snack: Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins work beautifully as a standalone snack or add a zesty crunch to salads, sandwiches, and pizzas.
• Healthier Alternative: Air frying uses far less oil than traditional frying methods, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins is all about simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a key role to ensure the perfect crunch, taste, and eye-catching golden color that make this dish so special.

• Banana Peppers: Fresh, mild banana peppers sliced into coins are the star ingredient—choose firm, bright peppers for best results.
• Olive Oil: Just enough to lightly coat the pepper slices and help achieve that crisp exterior in the air fryer.
• Seasonings: A simple mix of salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika adds flavor without overpowering the peppers’ natural tang.
• Cornstarch or All-Purpose Flour: Used to coat the pepper coins lightly, this creates the ultimate crispy crust when air fried.

Variations for Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want more heat, a different flavor profile, or a gluten-free version, it’s simple to tweak the ingredients to your liking.

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the seasoning mix for a fiery version of the banana pepper coins.
• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast over the coins right after air frying for a savory boost.
• Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for cornstarch or rice flour to keep this snack safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Herb-Infused: Mix dried oregano, basil, or thyme into the flour to add aromatic herb flavors that complement banana peppers beautifully.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Peppers

Start by washing your banana peppers thoroughly and slicing them into even 1/4-inch thick coins. This thickness ensures they cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior without becoming too fragile.

Step 2: Coat with Oil and Seasonings

In a mixing bowl, toss the banana pepper slices with olive oil until lightly coated. Then sprinkle on salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and any other seasonings you prefer, mixing well for an even distribution of flavor.

Step 3: Dust with Flour or Cornstarch

Add your choice of flour or cornstarch to the bowl and gently toss the pepper coins again. This thin coating is key to achieving maximum crispiness in the air fryer.

Step 4: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Place the banana pepper coins in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate around each piece for even cooking and browning.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coins turn golden and crunchy. Watch closely toward the end to avoid over-browning.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Transfer the crispy banana pepper coins to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil and cool slightly before enjoying their full crunch and flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins

• Use Fresh Peppers: Fresher banana peppers have firmer flesh, which crisps up better in the air fryer.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Give each piece space in the basket for optimal air flow and even cooking.
• Spray Lightly with Oil: If you prefer, use a misting spray to evenly coat the peppers without soaking them in oil.
• Flip Midway: Turning the coins halfway through cooking ensures all sides crisp up beautifully.
• Adjust Time for Thickness: Thicker slices require longer cooking times, so tailor accordingly for your preferred texture.

How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley, chives, or a dusting of grated Parmesan over the coins to add color, herbaceous brightness, and depth of flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair these crispy coins alongside creamy dips like ranch, blue cheese, or tzatziki, or serve with grilled meats and roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Use Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins as crunchy toppings on burgers, salad bowls, or even nachos to add an unexpected layer of flavor and texture that surprises and delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover banana pepper coins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Re-crisp by warming them briefly in the air fryer.

Freezing

Freeze cooked banana pepper coins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the air fryer directly from frozen for best results.

Reheating

For maintaining that irresistible crunch, reheat leftover coins in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes instead of microwaving, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other peppers instead of banana peppers?

Yes! Mild peppers like poblano or sweeter bell peppers work well, but adjust cooking times as thicker peppers may take longer to crisp.

Do I need to soak the banana peppers before cooking?

Soaking is not necessary for this recipe; just make sure to wash and dry the peppers thoroughly before slicing.

Is it necessary to use flour or can I skip it?

The light dusting of flour or cornstarch is key for crispiness, but you can experiment without it for a different texture.

Can this recipe be made in a conventional oven?

Yes, bake the pepper coins on a lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crunch.

Are Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins spicy?

Banana peppers generally have a mild heat, making these coins zesty but not spicy, perfect for those who prefer subtle heat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to enjoy a snack that’s crunchy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to whip up, then Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins are your new go-to. Whether for casual snacking, a fun appetizer, or a creative topping, this recipe brings fresh, vibrant flavors wrapped in crispy perfection. Give it a try and watch how quickly these little golden coins disappear!

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