One-Skillet Shrimp Fajitas Recipe
Imagine this: you walk through the door after a tiring day, and all you want is something tasty and easy to whip up. You’re in the mood for a quick, flavorful meal that won’t leave you with a pile of dishes to wash. That’s where the one-skillet shrimp fajitas come in!
These speedy and simple shrimp fajitas are a hit! You can whip them up in just one skillet in around 25 minutes. Packed with juicy shrimp, deliciously charred veggies, and a fantastic homemade fajita seasoning blend, these fajitas are perfect for those following a paleo, gluten-free, keto, or Whole30 diet!
Table of Contents
Shrimp recipes has been my savior on those chaotic evenings when I need to rustle up something satisfying in a hurry. The succulent shrimp, colorful bell peppers, and warm tortillas combine to create a dish that’s not only delightful to eat yet also easy to prepare. And there’s something so comforting about cooking everything in one skillet. It brings back memories of cozy family dinners and adds a pop of color and flavor to my table. Whether you adore seafood or just want a new go-to meal for weeknights, these shrimp fajitas are sure to hit the spot.
Why You Should Try One-Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
When you try shrimp fajitas, it’s really convenient because you only need one skillet to cook, so there’s less cleaning up to do. The cooking process is simple, which makes it great for beginners or for people with busy schedules.
Shrimp fajitas are a healthy choice because shrimp is low in calories but high in protein and nutrients. The bell peppers and onions add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s a tasty way to enjoy a balanced meal without sacrificing flavor.
The mix of spices, fresh veggies, and juicy shrimp creates a burst of flavor in every bite. The seasoning with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic, and onion powder gives the shrimp and veggies a bold, savory taste. Squeezing lime juice at the end adds a fresh, tangy finish.
How to Select the Best Shrimp
When you’re making shrimp recipes, it’s really important to pick out the best shrimp. You want to make sure it’s fresh or properly frozen.
Fresh shrimp should just have a light ocean smell, not a strong fishy one. If you’re using frozen shrimp, be sure to fully thaw it before you start cooking. And before you cook it, make sure to pat the shrimp dry to get rid of any extra moisture. This will help you get a really nice sear on the shrimp.
On the other hand, you can order online by surfing seafood menu of your nearby seafood restaurant. Just search for ‘seafood near me‘ and receive fresh shrimp at your doorstep.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need just a few basic tools to make these shrimp fajitas:
- A large skillet
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- Tongs or a spatula
Recipe Breakdown: One-Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
INGREDIENTS
Here’s what you need to make these delicious one-skillet shrimp fajitas:
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of one lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Tortillas, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Get ready to cook! Follow these easy steps to make delicious one-skillet shrimp fajitas:
- Prepare the Shrimp and Vegetables: First, make sure to peel and devein the shrimp. Then, slice the bell peppers and onion.
- Season the Shrimp: In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning over the shrimp, making sure each piece is well coated.
- Cook the Vegetables: Warm up some olive oil in a pan on medium-high heat. Put in the sliced bell peppers and onion. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and a little bit crispy. Take out the veggies from the pan and keep them to the side.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp is pink and opaque.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the shrimp. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the top. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Serve: Serve your shrimp fajitas hot, with warm tortillas. You can also add fresh cilantro on top for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some suggestions to enhance your shrimp fajitas experience:
- Warm up some tortillas, whether they’re made of flour or corn, to serve alongside the shrimp fajitas.
- Provide an array of toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, salsa, and lime wedges so that everyone can personalize their fajitas.
- Consider pairing the shrimp fajitas with side dishes like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad to make the meal more fulfilling.
- To complement the shrimp fajitas, offer a cold beverage such as a refreshing margarita, a cold beer, or a glass of iced tea.
Why Fresh Ingredients Matter
When you use fresh ingredients, it can really change up your shrimp fajitas. Fresh bell peppers and onions keep their crunch and give a lively flavor. Squeezing fresh lime adds a zesty finish that really brings out the taste. It’s always best to go for fresh herbs like cilantro to add some color and flavor.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful pointers to ensure that your shrimp fajitas come out just right every single time:
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp as they cook very quickly. Overcooked shrimp can end up tough and rubbery, so it’s important to keep a close watch on them.
- When cooking the vegetables, use high heat to give them that delicious charred flavor. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause the vegetables to steam instead of getting that nice sear.
- To save time, you can prepare the vegetables and shrimp in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This can help speed up the cooking process even more.
Nutritional Information
Shrimp fajitas are not just delicious, they are also great for your health. Let’s take a quick look at the advantages:
- Shrimp: Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein. It’s also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for your heart.
- Bell Peppers: These vibrant veggies are loaded with vitamins A and C. They also contribute fiber and antioxidants to your meal.
- Onions: Onions not only add flavor but also provide essential vitamins and minerals. They contain compounds that are beneficial for your overall well-being.
Variations
Looking to switch things up? Here are some suggestions to change your shrimp fajitas:
- You can use chicken, beef, or tofu instead of shrimp. Just adjust the cooking times.
- For a vegetarian option, you can make veggie fajitas with more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and squash. The seasoning will still provide plenty of flavor.
- If you prefer spicy food, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet.
- To give your fajitas an international twist, experiment with different spices. Use curry powder for an Indian flair or soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired version.
frequently asked questions
Can you cook shrimp in a cast iron pan?
Absolutely! Cooking shrimp in a cast iron pan gives them a perfect sear and delicious flavor.
Is it better to steam or sauté shrimp?
Sautéing shrimp is better if you want a quick, flavorful dish. Steaming is great for a lighter, more delicate taste.
What is the best way to season shrimp?
The best way to season shrimp is with a mix of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika, plus a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
What makes shrimp taste better?
Marinating shrimp with garlic, lime juice, and spices enhances their natural flavor and makes them taste incredible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, here’s a simple and delicious shrimp recipe for one-skillet shrimp fajitas that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and clean-up is a breeze. Plus, shrimp fajitas are a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
