Welcome to the journey of creating spicy shrimp fajitas. This flavorful recipe combines the savory taste of shrimp with the vibrant flavors of bell peppers, onions, and spices. The addition of tequila and lime juice brings a zesty twist that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or just wanting to spice up your weekday meals, these fajitas are sure to impress.
Most of these ingredients are everyday staples in a well-stocked kitchen. However, you may need to specially seek out smoked paprika, which provides a unique depth of flavor. Additionally, fresh shrimp will give you the best taste and texture for this dish, so make a point to get it from a reliable seafood counter or frozen section at your supermarket.
Ingredients for Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
Shrimp: A source of protein, shrimp will be the star ingredient of the dish. Fresh, raw shrimp is preferred.
Spices: Smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder will give your fajitas its flavorful kick.
Lime: Lime juice and zest add a tangy freshness to contrast the spices.
Tequila: Adding a touch of tequila gives the shrimp a special zest.
Jalapeno: This adds the heat to your spicy shrimp fajitas. Adjust the amount to your taste.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing and coating the shrimp for marination.
Garlic and Onion: Aromatic essentials in many dishes that add depth of flavor.
Bell peppers: They bring color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch to the fajitas.
Mushrooms: Brown mushrooms contribute a deep, earthy flavor.
Cilantro leaves: These add a fresh herby flavor, perfect to top off any Mexican dish.
Flour tortillas: The vehicle for all other ingredients, they hold everything together.
Lime wedges: For added tanginess and garnish.
One reader, Dorree Howe says:
This spicy shrimp fajitas recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and the shrimp is perfectly seasoned. The combination of spices and lime juice gives it a zesty kick. It's a hit with my family every time I make it. A must-try for anyone who loves a little heat in their meals!
Cooking Techniques for Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
How to marinate the shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, chili powder, pepper, lime juice, lime zest, tequila, minced jalapeno, and olive oil. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.
How to cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 1 minute on the other side. Remove the cooked shrimp from the pan and set aside.
How to sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, heat oil and sauté the garlic and onion for 1 minute. Add the mushrooms and sauté for another minute. Then, add more oil to the pan and stir in the bell peppers, cooking for about 2 minutes.
How to assemble the fajitas: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and warm for 1 minute. Season the fajitas with additional salt and pepper as desired. Garnish with cilantro.
How to serve: Serve the spicy shrimp fajitas hot with warmed tortillas and lime wedges.
How To Make Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
These shrimp fajitas are spicy and herby with just the right amount of kick from the combination of paprika, cumin, jalapeno, and chili powder.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1 lbshrimppeeled and deveined
- 1tspsmoked paprika
- ¾tspcumin
- ½tspgarlic powder
- ½tsponion powder
- saltto taste
- pepperto taste
- ¼tspchili powder
- 2tsplime juice and zest
- 2tbsptequilaor rum, optional
- 1tbspjalapenominced
- ¼cupolive oildivided
- 2tspgarlicminced
- 2cupswhite onion¼-inch thick slices
- 4cupsbell peppers¼-inch thick slices
- 6ozbrown mushrooms¼-inch thick slices
- ¼cupcilantro leavesfor garnish
- 8flour tortillasor corn tortillas
- lime wedgesto serve
Instructions
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In a large bowl combine shrimp, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, chili powder, pepper, lime juice, lime zest, tequila, minced jalapeno and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Set aside.
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon oil.
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When the oil is just beginning to smoke, add the shrimp in the pan in one layer.
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Cook shrimp for 2 minutes, flip and cook for 1 minute on the other side.
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Remove from hot pan to a clean plate.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in the pan, once hot add the garlic and onion and saute for 1 minute.
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Add mushroom and saute 1 minute, then add 1 tablespoon oil to the pan.
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When hot, add the bell peppers and stir occasionally for about 2 minutes.
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Add shrimp back to the pan, cook for 1 minute to warm the seafood.
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Season fajitas with more salt and pepper as desired. Garnish with cilantro.
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Serve spicy shrimp fajitas hot with warmed tortillas and lime wedges.
Nutrition
- Calories: 854.40kcal
- Fat: 26.39g
- Saturated Fat: 4.39g
- Trans Fat: 0.10g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 14.51g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.11g
- Carbohydrates: 75.13g
- Fiber: 8.47g
- Sugar: 13.38g
- Protein: 73.73g
- Cholesterol: 571.53mg
- Sodium: 3314.36mg
- Calcium: 466.22mg
- Potassium: 1356.04mg
- Iron: 6.06mg
- Vitamin A: 500.83µg
- Vitamin C: 201.89mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
When cooking the shrimp, it's important not to overcook them as they can become tough and rubbery. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes. You'll know they're done when they turn pink and opaque. Also, marinating the shrimp in the spices, lime juice, and tequila not only infuses them with flavor but also helps to tenderize them. For the best results, let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
Prep ahead: Marinate the shrimp and chop the vegetables the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
One-pan wonder: Use a large skillet to cook the shrimp and vegetables together, minimizing cleanup and saving time.
Efficient slicing: Use a mandoline to quickly and uniformly slice the bell peppers and onions for the fajitas.
Quick fix: Use pre-cooked and peeled shrimp to cut down on prep time.
Team effort: Enlist the help of a friend or family member to assist with the prep work, making the process faster and more enjoyable.
Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Shrimp Fajitas Recipe
shrimp - Substitute with chicken: Chicken can be used as a substitute for shrimp in fajitas. It provides a similar texture and absorbs flavors well when marinated.
smoked paprika - Substitute with regular paprika and a pinch of cayenne: Regular paprika with a pinch of cayenne can replicate the smokiness and heat of smoked paprika.
cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, providing a similar earthy and warm flavor profile.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced fresh garlic: Fresh minced garlic can be used as a substitute for garlic powder, providing a more intense and aromatic flavor.
onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped fresh onion: Finely chopped fresh onion can be used as a substitute for onion powder, providing a more pronounced onion flavor and texture.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika and a pinch of cayenne: A combination of paprika and cayenne can replicate the flavor and heat of chili powder.
lime juice and zest - Substitute with lemon juice and zest: Lemon juice and zest can be used as a substitute for lime, providing a similar citrusy flavor and acidity.
tequila - Substitute with chicken or vegetable broth: Chicken or vegetable broth can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute for tequila, providing depth of flavor.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano pepper can be used as a substitute for jalapeno, providing a similar level of heat and flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a mild and neutral flavor.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onion can be used as a substitute for white onion, providing a slightly sweeter flavor.
bell peppers - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers can be used as a substitute for bell peppers, providing a mild heat and slightly smoky flavor.
brown mushrooms - Substitute with portobello mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms can be used as a substitute for brown mushrooms, providing a meaty texture and earthy flavor.
cilantro leaves - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas can be used as a substitute for flour tortillas, providing a different texture and flavor.
Presentation Ideas for Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
Elevate the shrimp: Arrange the cooked shrimp in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring they are the focal point of the dish.
Artful drizzling of tequila-lime sauce: Use a squeeze bottle to create an elegant and precise drizzle of the tequila-lime sauce around the perimeter of the plate, adding a pop of flavor and visual interest.
Colorful bell pepper medley: Create a vibrant and visually stunning display of the sautéed bell peppers, arranging them in a harmonious and eye-catching manner on the plate.
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves: Delicately place fresh cilantro leaves on top of the fajitas, adding a touch of vibrant green and a burst of fresh flavor to the dish.
Warm tortillas with precision: Carefully warm the flour tortillas and fold them into elegant shapes, ensuring they are presented with finesse and attention to detail.
Strategic placement of lime wedges: Position the lime wedges strategically on the plate, adding a pop of citrus and a visually appealing element to the overall presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Fajitas
- Large bowl: A large bowl is essential for marinating the shrimp and mixing the spices and other ingredients together.
- Skillet: A skillet is used for cooking the shrimp and sautéing the vegetables. It provides a large surface area for even cooking.
- Tongs: Tongs are useful for flipping the shrimp while cooking and for serving the fajitas.
- Cutting board: A cutting board is needed for chopping the vegetables and preparing the ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting the vegetables and deveining the shrimp.
- Grater or zester: A grater or zester is used to zest the lime for added flavor in the marinade.
- Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are necessary for accurately measuring the spices and other ingredients.
- Measuring cup: A measuring cup is used for measuring the olive oil and other liquids in the recipe.
- Spatula: A spatula is helpful for stirring the vegetables and shrimp while cooking.
- Lime squeezer: A lime squeezer can be used to extract the juice from the lime for the marinade.
- Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to mince the garlic for the marinade and sautéed vegetables.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
- To store leftover spicy shrimp fajitas, let them cool to room temperature first. Then, transfer the shrimp, vegetables, and any toppings to separate airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the shrimp and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Assemble the fajitas with fresh tortillas and toppings for the best taste and texture.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the spicy shrimp fajitas. Place the cooled shrimp and vegetables in separate freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the containers with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the shrimp and vegetables in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and assembling the fajitas.
- To maintain the best quality, avoid freezing the tortillas and toppings like cilantro and lime wedges. Instead, use fresh tortillas and toppings when serving the reheated fajitas.
How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
Reheat the shrimp and vegetables separately to ensure the best texture and flavor. Place the shrimp in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For the vegetables, sauté them in a hot skillet with a little olive oil until they're heated and slightly crisp.
If you prefer to reheat everything together, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover fajita mixture on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp and vegetables are thoroughly warmed. This method helps maintain the texture of the ingredients better than microwaving.
For a quick and easy reheat, use a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat, then add the leftover shrimp and vegetables. Stir frequently until heated through, about 3-5 minutes. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
If you have extra tortillas, wrap the leftover fajita mixture in them before reheating. Place the wrapped fajitas in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps keep the shrimp and vegetables moist while also warming the tortillas.
For a crispy twist, reheat the shrimp and vegetables in a hot skillet until warmed through, then serve over a bed of nachos or tortilla chips. Top with shredded cheese, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Interesting Trivia About Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
Shrimp fajitas are a popular Tex-Mex dish that originated in the Southwest United States.
Is Making Spicy Shrimp Fajitas at Home Cost-Effective?
This spicy shrimp fajitas recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as shrimp, bell peppers, and onions, are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of tequila and lime may slightly increase the cost, but these are optional. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $25-$30. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10 due to its affordability, vibrant flavors, and versatility.
Are Spicy Shrimp Fajitas Healthy or Unhealthy?
The spicy shrimp fajitas recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, vegetables, and spices. Here are some positive aspects:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and high in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12
- The recipe includes a variety of vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, which provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- The use of spices like smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy fats
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved:
- The use of flour tortillas adds refined carbohydrates and gluten, which may not be suitable for everyone
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil, which, while a healthy fat, can still contribute to a higher calorie count
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the flour tortillas for whole grain or corn tortillas to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates
- Use a smaller amount of olive oil or opt for cooking spray to reduce the overall calorie count
- Add more vegetables to the fajitas, such as zucchini, carrots, or leafy greens, to boost the nutrient density of the dish
- Serve the fajitas with a side of guacamole or sliced avocado for an extra dose of healthy fats and fiber
- Use low-sodium vegetable broth instead of oil to sauté the vegetables, reducing the overall fat content
Editor's Opinion on This Spicy Shrimp Fajitas Recipe
This spicy shrimp fajitas recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the shrimp with a zesty and smoky essence, while the sautéed vegetables add a satisfying crunch. The tequila and lime juice bring a refreshing and tangy twist to the dish, elevating it to a whole new level. The final touch of cilantro adds a burst of freshness, making this dish a true fiesta for the taste buds. Enjoy these fajitas with warm tortillas and a squeeze of lime for a mouthwatering experience.
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Why trust this Spicy Shrimp Fajitas Recipe:
This spicy shrimp fajitas recipe guarantees a burst of flavor with the perfect balance of smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic. The addition of tequila and lime juice elevates the dish, while the use of fresh ingredients such as bell peppers and mushrooms ensures a wholesome meal. With carefully curated seasonings and a detailed cooking process, this recipe promises an authentic and delightful Mexican cuisine experience.
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