Name: Shrimp Fajitas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lime; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green – thinly sliced); 1 medium red onion (thinly sliced); Warm flour or corn tortillas; Chopped fresh cilantro (optional); Lime wedges (optional)

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If you’re searching for a meal that’s bursting with color, flavor, and a bit of weeknight magic, this Shrimp Fajitas Recipe is about to become your new go-to! Juicy shrimp mingle with sweet sautéed peppers and smoky spices, all tucked into a warm tortilla—honestly, what’s not to love? In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a sizzling, vibrant dish that feels both festive and comforting. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this Shrimp Fajitas Recipe will steal the spotlight every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Shrimp Fajitas Recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient brings something special, whether it’s zest, crunch, or a pop of color. Gather these kitchen staples and watch how easily they come together for something truly mouthwatering.

Shrimp: Fresh, large, peeled, and deveined—these are the stars, offering a sweet, succulent bite and cooking up in minutes.
Bell Peppers: A trio of red, yellow, and green peppers gives a rainbow of color and a subtle sweetness when sautéed.
Red Onion: Sliced thin for a mellow, slightly tangy flavor that balances the peppers and shrimp.
Olive Oil: For marinating and sautéing, this adds richness and helps the spices stick.
Lime Juice: Bright and zesty, lime wakes up all the flavors and brings a fresh finish.
Chili Powder: The backbone of fajita flavor, delivering just the right amount of heat and smokiness.
Ground Cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin rounds out the spice blend with depth.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note that makes everything taste like it came off the grill.
Garlic Powder: For that savory, aromatic punch without the fuss of chopping cloves.
Onion Powder: Boosts the sweet savoriness of the dish and blends seamlessly with the other spices.
Cayenne Pepper (optional): A pinch for those who crave a little extra heat.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and highlighting all the other flavors.
Flour or Corn Tortillas: Warm and soft, these hold all the fillings—choose corn for a gluten-free option.
Fresh Cilantro and Lime Wedges (optional): For that final touch of freshness and flair.

How to Make Shrimp Fajitas Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if you want a little fire), and a good sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Add the shrimp and toss everything until those beauties are glistening and coated. Let them chill out for 10 to 15 minutes so they can soak up all those bold, zesty flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onions

While the shrimp marinates, heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high. Add a drizzle of oil and toss in the sliced bell peppers and red onion. Stir occasionally for about 5 to 6 minutes. You want them to be tender and just starting to char around the edges—the secret to that irresistible fajita sizzle!

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Remove the veggies and set them aside. In the same pan, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Keep a close eye—shrimp cook fast, and overcooked shrimp can get rubbery in a flash.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Once the shrimp are cooked, return the sautéed peppers and onions to the skillet. Toss everything together for a minute to let the flavors mingle and warm through. That’s when the magic happens and your kitchen smells like the best Mexican cantina in town!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the sizzling shrimp and veggies into warm tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, if you like. Dive in while everything’s hot and juicy—you’ve just made the ultimate Shrimp Fajitas Recipe.

How to Serve Shrimp Fajitas Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes are where you can get creative! A sprinkle of chopped cilantro, a few lime wedges, or even some sliced avocado will brighten up each bite and add freshness. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

Side Dishes

Pair your Shrimp Fajitas Recipe with classic sides like fluffy Spanish rice, creamy refried beans, or a zesty corn salad. Chips and guacamole are always a crowd-pleaser, while a crisp green salad makes a perfect, lighter complement.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, set up a fajita bar with all the toppings and sides laid out, letting everyone build their own masterpiece. Or, try serving the shrimp and veggies over a bed of lettuce or cauliflower rice for a low-carb fajita bowl. Mini tortillas also make adorable, party-ready bites!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Shrimp Fajitas Recipe components can be stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the tortillas, shrimp, and veggies apart to maintain their best texture when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Freezing

While shrimp can be frozen, they’re at their best freshly cooked. If you do freeze, let the shrimp and veggies cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. They’ll keep for up to 1 month, but be aware the peppers may soften more once thawed.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the shrimp and veggies gently in a skillet over medium heat until just heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp can become tough. Warm the tortillas separately, either in a dry skillet or wrapped in a damp towel in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Fajitas Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating, so they soak up all those delicious spices and don’t get watery in the pan.

What’s the best way to prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Keep your eye on them—shrimp cook in just 2 to 3 minutes per side. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, take them off the heat to keep them juicy and tender.

Can I substitute chicken or another protein?

Definitely! This recipe is super flexible. Thinly sliced chicken breast, steak strips, or even portobello mushrooms work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for each protein.

Do I have to use all three colors of bell peppers?

Not at all! Use whatever you have on hand. Mixing colors makes the dish extra vibrant and fun, but it’ll taste just as good with only one or two types.

Is this Shrimp Fajitas Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use corn tortillas instead of flour, this dish is naturally gluten-free! Always double-check your spices and tortillas to be sure.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Fajitas Recipe truly brings a fiesta of flavors to your table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. Give it a try—your tastebuds (and anyone lucky enough to dine with you) will thank you. Happy cooking!

Shrimp Fajitas Recipe

4.9 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Shrimp Fajitas Recipe is a vibrant and flavorful Mexican dish combining tender shrimp with sautéed bell peppers and onions, all tossed in a zesty spice blend and served with warm tortillas. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, these fajitas are easy to prepare, packed with protein, and customizable with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Marinade

1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Vegetables

3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green – thinly sliced)
1 medium red onion (thinly sliced)

To Serve

Warm flour or corn tortillas
Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Lime wedges (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade and Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Cook Vegetables: Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of oil to the pan, then add the sliced bell peppers and red onions. Cook the vegetables for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender with slight charring for added flavor. Remove the cooked vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
Cook Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
Combine and Warm: Return the cooked bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together and cook for an additional minute to warm through and blend the flavors.
Serve: Serve the shrimp and vegetable mixture immediately on warm flour or corn tortillas. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Add extra toppings such as sliced avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese for enhanced flavor.

Notes

Add sliced avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese as extra toppings for a richer flavor.
For a low-carb alternative, serve the shrimp and vegetables over lettuce or cauliflower rice instead of tortillas.
Shrimp cook quickly; avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming rubbery and tough.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican