Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner option? Look no further than these skillet shrimp fajitas. This recipe combines the smoky flavors of paprika and chipotle with the freshness of bell peppers and onions. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just cooking for yourself, these fajitas are sure to impress.
The chipotle powder in this recipe is key to achieving the smoky flavor that characterizes fajitas. While it's becoming more common in grocery stores, you may need to search in the international or spice aisle. Similarly, while most people have paprika in their pantry, make sure it's not too old, as it can lose its flavor over time. Lastly, don't forget to pick up some large shrimp from the seafood section.
Ingredients for Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
Paprika: A mild spice that adds a smoky flavor and bright red color.
Chipotle powder: Made from smoked and dried jalapenos, it adds heat and depth of flavor.
Cumin powder: Adds an earthy flavor, commonly used in Mexican and Indian dishes.
Dried oregano: A staple herb in Mexican cuisine with a slightly bitter and pungent flavor.
Onion powder: Provides an intense onion flavor without the need for fresh onions.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the veggies and cooking the shrimp.
Onion: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor when cooked.
Bell peppers: Gives a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
Large shrimp: The star of the dish, make sure to get large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Cilantro: Used as a garnish, it adds a fresh and zesty flavor.
Tortillas: The base of the fajitas, choose your favorite kind.
One reader, Currey Causey says:
This skillet shrimp fajitas recipe is a game-changer! The seasoning is spot on, and the shrimp cooks to perfection. The sizzle of the veggies and shrimp together creates an irresistible aroma. It's a quick and easy way to enjoy restaurant-quality fajitas at home. Highly recommended!
Essential Techniques for Making Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
How to make fajita seasoning: Mix together paprika, chipotle powder, cumin powder, oregano, onion powder, and salt in a bowl to create the fajita seasoning.
How to coat shrimp with seasoning: Add half of the fajita seasoning to the shrimp and mix until the shrimp is well coated. Set aside.
How to sauté onions and bell peppers: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large cast-iron skillet and add the onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables have softened slightly.
How to cook shrimp: Heat the remaining oil in the skillet and add the seasoned shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes until they are pink and cooked through.
How to serve: Serve the shrimp and vegetables in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
How To Make Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
This shrimp fajitas recipe is made flavorful by a generous amount of homemade fajita seasoning and the tortilla adds a nice neutral backdrop for the shrimp.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbsppaprika
- 1tspchipotle powder
- 1½tbspcumin powder
- 1tbspdried oregano
- 1tbsponion powder
- ½tspsalt,or to taste
- 2tbspVegetable Oil
- 1onion,sliced
- 3cupsbell peppers,sliced, I used red and yellow bell peppers
- 1lblarge shrimp,deveined and peeled
- cilantro,lime, sour cream and guacamole for topping
- tortillas for serving
Instructions
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Mix together paprika, chipotle powder, cumin powder, oregano, onion powder and salt in a bowl to make fajita seasoning.
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Add half of the seasoning to the shrimp and mix till it’s coated well. Set aside.
-
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large cast-iron skillet and add the onions and bell peppers. Saute for 4 to 5 minutes till the vegetables have softened slightly.
-
Add the remaining seasoning and mix well. Slide the vegetables to one side of the skillet.
-
Heat the remaining oil in the skillet and add the shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes until they are pink and cooked through.
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Serve in tortillas with your favourite toppings.
Nutrition
- Calories: 270.34kcal
- Fat: 10.30g
- Saturated Fat: 1.04g
- Trans Fat: 0.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.83g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.36g
- Carbohydrates: 26.56g
- Fiber: 6.71g
- Sugar: 6.85g
- Protein: 19.53g
- Cholesterol: 142.88mg
- Sodium: 695.71mg
- Calcium: 147.24mg
- Potassium: 627.02mg
- Iron: 3.80mg
- Vitamin A: 342.52µg
- Vitamin C: 146.45mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
When cooking the shrimp, ensure that you don't overcook them as they can become tough and chewy. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in 3 to 4 minutes. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they are done. Overcooking can result in a rubbery texture. Also, adding the fajita seasoning to the shrimp and letting it sit for a few minutes before cooking can help the flavors to penetrate more deeply.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
Prep ahead: Chop and marinate the shrimp and vegetables the night before to cut down on prep time when making the fajitas.
One-pan cooking: Use a large skillet to cook the shrimp and vegetables together, saving time on cleaning multiple dishes.
Quick-cooking protein: Opt for large shrimp as they cook quickly, reducing the overall cooking time for the fajitas.
Efficient seasoning: Mix the fajita seasoning in advance and store it in an airtight container for future use, saving time on measuring out individual spices each time.
Substitute Ingredients For Skillet Shrimp Fajitas Recipe
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika will add a deeper, smokier flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste of the fajitas.
chipotle powder - Substitute with ancho chili powder: Ancho chili powder will provide a similar smoky and slightly sweet flavor, adding depth to the fajitas.
cumin powder - Substitute with coriander powder: Coriander powder offers a slightly citrusy and floral flavor, complementing the other spices and ingredients in the recipe.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can provide a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor, enhancing the overall herbaceous profile of the fajitas.
onion powder - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder will add a savory and aromatic element to the dish, similar to the flavor profile of onion powder.
vegetable oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and a mild, buttery flavor, which works well for high-heat cooking like skillet fajitas.
bell peppers - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers offer a mild heat and a rich, earthy flavor, adding complexity to the fajitas.
large shrimp - Substitute with sliced chicken breast: Sliced chicken breast can be used as a protein alternative, offering a similar texture and absorbing the flavors of the spices and vegetables.
Presenting Skillet Shrimp Fajitas for Maximum Appeal
Elevate the plating: Arrange the vibrant and colorful bell peppers and succulent shrimp in an artful and visually appealing manner on the plate, creating a feast for the eyes before the palate.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped cilantro to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor, enhancing the overall presentation and aroma.
Artfully fold the tortillas: Carefully fold the warm tortillas into elegant shapes, adding a touch of finesse to the presentation and ensuring they are visually appealing when served.
Incorporate a touch of flair: Consider adding a drizzle of a vibrant sauce or a sprinkle of finely diced tomatoes on top of the fajitas to introduce an element of surprise and elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant, high-quality serving plates and utensils to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the fajitas, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Balance the composition: Ensure a harmonious balance of colors, textures, and shapes on the plate, creating a visually stunning presentation that reflects the skill and artistry behind the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
- Cast-iron skillet: A heavy-duty skillet that provides even heat distribution and is perfect for searing and sautéing.
- Tongs: Used for flipping and turning the shrimp and vegetables while cooking.
- Mixing bowl: Used for mixing the fajita seasoning and coating the shrimp.
- Knife: For slicing the onions and bell peppers.
- Cutting board: To provide a stable surface for chopping and slicing the vegetables.
- Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring the fajita seasoning ingredients.
- Grill or stovetop: For cooking the shrimp and vegetables.
Storing and Freezing Skillet Shrimp Fajitas for Later
- To store leftover skillet shrimp fajitas, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to reheat, warm the fajita mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the shrimp to become rubbery.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the fajita mixture (without the tortillas) for up to 2-3 months:
- Place the cooled mixture in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
- To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator overnight or for 24 hours.
- Reheat the thawed mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- It's not recommended to freeze the tortillas along with the fajita mixture, as they may become soggy and lose their texture. Instead, store the tortillas separately at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and warm them up when ready to serve.
- If you have leftover bell peppers and onions, you can chop them up and freeze them in a separate container for future use in other recipes like stir-fries, omelets, or soups.
How To Reheat Leftover Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover skillet shrimp fajitas in aluminum foil, making sure to seal the edges tightly. Place the wrapped fajitas on a baking sheet and heat in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
For a quicker option, reheat the fajitas in a microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the fajitas are heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as the shrimp may become rubbery.
If you prefer a crispy texture, reheat the fajitas in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the leftover fajitas and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
For a more flavorful option, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet when reheating the fajitas on the stovetop. This will help to rehydrate the vegetables and prevent the fajitas from drying out.
If you have leftover tortillas, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in the oven alongside the fajitas for the last 5 minutes of reheating. This will help to warm and soften the tortillas, making them perfect for serving with the reheated fajitas.
Interesting Trivia About Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
Shrimp fajitas are a popular Tex-Mex dish that originated in the 1930s. They were traditionally made with skirt steak, but over time, shrimp became a popular alternative due to its versatility and delicious flavor.
Is Making Skillet Shrimp Fajitas at Home Cost-Effective?
This skillet shrimp fajitas recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as shrimp, bell peppers, and onions, are generally affordable and widely available. The use of simple spices and vegetable oil keeps the cost low. The recipe offers a delightful and flavorful meal, making it a great value for money. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its affordability and taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly option for a delicious meal.
Are Skillet Shrimp Fajitas Healthy or Unhealthy?
The skillet shrimp fajitas recipe is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to its lean protein source (shrimp) and the abundance of vegetables (onions and bell peppers). The seasoning mix used in the recipe is also free from any unhealthy additives, relying on a blend of spices for flavor. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the dish even healthier:
- Using whole wheat tortillas instead of regular ones would increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients
- Reducing the amount of oil used in cooking can help lower the overall calorie count
- Adding more vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes, can further increase the nutritional value of the dish
To make the skillet shrimp fajitas even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Serve the fajitas with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole, which are packed with vitamins and healthy fats
- Use a non-stick skillet to reduce the amount of oil needed for cooking
- Opt for low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt as a topping instead of regular sour cream
- Add a squeeze of lime juice to the finished dish for an extra boost of vitamin C and bright flavor
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as fresh cilantro or smoked paprika, to enhance the taste without relying on salt or oil
Editor's Opinion on the Skillet Shrimp Fajitas Recipe
This skillet shrimp fajitas recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The fajita seasoning adds a smoky and aromatic touch to the shrimp, while the sautéed onions and bell peppers provide a sweet and savory base. The dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. The vibrant colors and bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, and the option to customize with various toppings adds a fun element. Overall, this recipe is a winner for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Why trust this Skillet Shrimp Fajitas Recipe:
This skillet shrimp fajitas recipe offers a burst of vibrant Mexican flavors, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. The carefully crafted fajita seasoning infuses the shrimp with a smoky, spicy kick, while the sautéed onions and colorful bell peppers add a delightful crunch. The use of a cast-iron skillet ensures even cooking and enhances the flavor profile. With the addition of fresh cilantro and warm tortillas, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience that will surely impress your taste buds.
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