Shrimp Fajitas

Shrimp Fajitas are a vibrant, sizzling dish that brings bold Tex-Mex flavors straight to your table in under 30 minutes. Juicy shrimp are tossed with smoky spices, then quickly cooked alongside colorful bell peppers and onions until perfectly tender and slightly charred. Served hot in warm tortillas, shrimp fajitas are fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

What makes shrimp fajitas so special is their speed and versatility. Shrimp cooks quickly, making this dish ideal for busy weeknights, yet the flavors are bold enough for entertaining. With a balance of spice, citrus, and fresh vegetables, shrimp fajitas are a lighter alternative to beef or chicken while still delivering that classic fajita experience everyone loves.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, fresh, and packed with flavor. The shrimp stay juicy, the vegetables remain crisp-tender, and the seasoning delivers smoky, zesty goodness in every bite. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but is actually quite healthy—and it’s endlessly customizable for different tastes.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Bold Tex-Mex flavors with minimal effort
• High in protein and low in fat
• Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings
• Easily customizable with toppings and tortillas

Shrimp fajitas are the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex / Mexican-Inspired
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 320–350 calories per serving (without tortillas)

Ingredients

For the Shrimp & Vegetables

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• Juice of 1 lime

Fajita Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving

• Warm flour or corn tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Guacamole or sliced avocado
• Salsa or pico de gallo

Cooking Directions

1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, and fajita seasoning.
2. Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add sliced peppers and onions; sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Remove vegetables from the pan and set aside.
5. Add shrimp to the same pan in a single layer.
6. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
7. Return vegetables to the pan and toss with shrimp.
8. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prep Ingredients: Slice peppers and onion; peel and devein shrimp.
2. Season Shrimp: Toss shrimp with oil, lime juice, and spices.
3. Cook Vegetables: Sauté peppers and onions until lightly charred.
4. Cook Shrimp: Sear shrimp quickly until just cooked.
5. Combine: Toss shrimp and vegetables together for even flavor.
6. Serve Hot: Transfer to a serving platter or serve straight from the pan.

How to Serve Shrimp Fajitas

• Spoon shrimp and vegetables into warm tortillas
• Top with sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro
• Serve with Mexican rice or refried beans
• Offer extra lime wedges on the side

Recipe Tips

• Do not overcook shrimp—they cook very quickly
• Use a hot pan for that classic fajita char
• Cut vegetables evenly for consistent cooking
• Warm tortillas before serving for best texture
• Adjust spice level to taste

Variations (Detailed)

Spicy Shrimp Fajitas

Add extra cayenne or chipotle powder for more heat.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Fajitas

Finish shrimp with a tablespoon of butter and fresh garlic.

Low-Carb Shrimp Fajitas

Serve over lettuce wraps or cauliflower rice instead of tortillas.

Sheet-Pan Shrimp Fajitas

Roast shrimp and vegetables at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes.

Pineapple Shrimp Fajitas

Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory twist.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Store leftovers in an airtight container
• Keeps well for 2–3 days

Freezer

• Freeze cooked shrimp and vegetables separately
• Store for up to 1 month

Reheating

• Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat
• Avoid microwaving too long to prevent rubbery shrimp

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or cast-iron pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or spatula

Conclusion

Shrimp Fajitas are a fast, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings sizzling Tex-Mex flair to your kitchen. With juicy shrimp, colorful vegetables, and bold spices, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or fun family dinners. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, shrimp fajitas are a must-have recipe you’ll want to make again and again.