These Shrimp Fajitas are full of flavor and super easy to whip up! Juicy shrimp are cooked with colorful peppers and onions, all wrapped up in warm tortillas. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good fajita night? I like to pile on the toppings—guacamole, salsa, and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a fiesta on my plate! 🎉
Making these shrimp fajitas is a breeze. Just sauté the shrimp and veggies, fill your tortillas, and you’re ready to feast. Perfect for busy evenings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen works too. Just remember to thaw it well in advance. If you’re not a shrimp fan, why not try chicken or tofu instead? Both can soak up the spices nicely!
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor, but you can substitute avocado oil for a higher smoke point or even use a little butter for a richer taste. Just keep in mind butter can burn more easily.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika make this dish flavorful. If you’re looking to adjust the heat, consider swapping chili powder for smoked paprika or adding a pinch of cayenne. Garlic and onion powders can be replaced with fresh or omitted if you prefer.
Vegetables: Bell peppers and onions are classic, but you can switch things up. Try zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn for a twist. Each brings something unique to your fajitas!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overdoing It?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Preheat your skillet before adding the shrimp. A hot surface ensures a nice sear.
- Cook the shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side. They’ll be perfectly pink when done. Overcooking can make them rubbery!
- Remove them as soon as they turn opaque and pink, then set aside. Heat them again briefly with the veggies to warm through before serving.
How to Make Shrimp Fajitas?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Tortillas
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious shrimp fajitas recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes marinating the shrimp and another 15 minutes cooking everything to perfection. A quick and tasty meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir these together well. Then, add the shrimp and toss them in the mixture until they’re all coated nicely. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for 15 minutes to soak up all those flavors.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. When they are done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. This should smell amazing!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and start to caramelize, making them sweet and flavorful.
4. Combine and Heat Through:
Now, return the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Squeeze the lime juice over everything and toss to combine. Let it heat through for about another minute, so all the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Warm up your tortillas and fill them with the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Take a bite and enjoy your delicious shrimp fajitas!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 10-15 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels before marinating to ensure the spices stick well!
What Can I Substitute for Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with chopped parsley for a similar fresh flavor. For a different herb taste, try using fresh basil or a sprinkle of scallions as a garnish instead!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp fajitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of lime juice to revive the flavors!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you like it spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also serve the fajitas with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
