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Fried Pepperoncini’s with Garlic Lemon Basil Aioli Recipe


  • Author: Jack
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Crispy and flavorful Fried Pepperoncini’s served with a zesty Garlic Lemon Basil Aioli Sauce, perfect as a unique appetizer or snack with a delightful crunch and tangy dipping sauce.


Ingredients

Scale

Fried Pepperoncini’s

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 jar pepperoncini’s (Greek style), drained
  • 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Garlic Lemon Basil Aioli Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons Classico basil pesto

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare oil for frying: Pour 2 cups of vegetable oil into a deep pot and heat it to 325°F (163°C), ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying the pepperoncini’s to a crisp texture.
  2. Whisk eggs: Crack 2 eggs into a bowl and whisk them until fully combined to create an egg wash for coating.
  3. Prepare bread crumbs: In a separate bowl, add 1 cup of bread crumbs seasoned with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder, mixing well for even flavor.
  4. Coat pepperoncini’s: Dip each pepperoncini into the whisked eggs, then roll them thoroughly in the seasoned bread crumbs to ensure a good coating.
  5. Fry pepperoncini’s: Carefully place the coated pepperoncini’s into the hot oil. Fry them for just a few seconds until they turn lightly golden brown. Use a spider or a strainer with a handle to remove them from the oil and transfer them onto paper towels or a kitchen cloth to drain excess oil.
  6. Make the aioli sauce: In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons Classico basil pesto. Stir thoroughly until the ingredients are fully incorporated to create a flavorful dipping sauce.
  7. Serve: Plate the fried pepperoncini’s and serve alongside the garlic lemon basil aioli for dipping. Enjoy immediately while crispy and warm.

Notes

  • Maintain the frying oil temperature at 325°F to ensure pepperoncini’s cook quickly without absorbing too much oil.
  • Drain pepperoncini’s well before coating to prevent sogginess.
  • Adjust seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to taste.
  • The aioli sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Serve immediately after frying for the best crispiness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Greek

Keywords: Fried Pepperoncini, Fried Appetizer, Pepperoncini Recipe, Garlic Lemon Basil Aioli, Crispy Pepperoncini