Here’s a freebie from The Menopause Menu book—Shishito Peppers with Lemon Peel & Greek Yogurt Dip. This original recipe is from chapter 12, Skin & Hair Changes.
Shishito peppers are a great source of vitamins C, A, E, and B12 and are also rich in antioxidants, all of which support skin and hair integrity. They are easy to grow, love a sunny corner of the garden, and are prolific: Just three plants can yield 400 or more peppers each summer.
I don’t care for super-spicy food, so these peppers are perfect for me (although one in every 20 or so is spicy, so you still have to watch out). Here is a simple way to prepare them, with a zesty dip and topping.
Shishito Peppers with Lemon Peel & Greek Yogurt Dip
(Serves 3)
Ingredients:
15–20 shishito peppers
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Pinch or two kosher salt
1/2 cup low- or zero-fat plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons buttermilk
1–2 teaspoons creamy horseradish
Pinch sea salt
1 tablespoon diced chives
1–2 teaspoons sugar
1 tablespoon low- or zero-fat plain Greek yogurt
Pinch sea salt
Pinch ground ginger
Rind from 1/2 lemon, peeled finely into ribbons
Method:
1. Toss the peppers with the extra-virgin olive oil and generous pinch or two of Kosher salt.
2. Grill peppers over high heat in a grill pan or on an outdoor grill, turning frequently so all sides get exposed to the heat and become slightly charred.
3. Let rest on paper towels.
4. To make the dip, whisk together 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, buttermilk, horseradish, pinch sea salt, and chives, and set aside in a small bowl.
5. To make the topping, combine all remaining ingredients in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently for 6 to 8 minutes until slightly crispy (or just before yogurt completely boils off).
6. Remove topping from heat and cool the coated lemon rind ribbons on paper towels.
7. Place the peppers on a serving dish, sprinkle with the lemon peel topping, and serve with the dip on the side. This can be served warm, or kept in the fridge and served cold the next day.
Susan J. Baumgaertel, MD is an internal medicine physician who provides telemedicine medical consultation and advocacy support for patients in WA state. Find out more at myMDadvocate.
Her book, The Menopause Menu is an all-in-one giftbook, medical guide and recipe book for navigating menopause.