This incredibly flavorful Sizzling Zesty Shrimp Fajitas comes together in about 30 minutes and is cooked all in one pan for a quick weeknight dinner that your family will love! Switch up the vegetables or spices to suit your taste, or use it as a “clean out the fridge” meal to get rid of those leftover veggies hanging out in your crisper drawer!
Ingredient Breakdown
Shrimp
Shrimp is the star of this dish! I like to choose fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp works well in a pinch, too. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking; you can either leave it in the fridge overnight or put it in a bowl of cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Tail-off shrimp is easier for everyone to eat, but if you prefer the tails on for added flavor, go for it!
Tip: For a twist, try using scallops or even chicken if shrimp isn’t your thing.
Bell Peppers
I use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers because they add a splash of color and sweetness to the fajitas. Each type has its own flavor profile, and together they create a beautiful medley! You can totally switch it up with other vegetables too, like zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn. The best part is that they can be fresh or frozen, so you can use whatever you have on hand!
Tip: If you’re short on time, you can even grab a pre-sliced mix from the produce section, no judgment here!
Onions
Onions add that essential sweetness and depth, getting all caramelized when sautéed. I like to use yellow onions for this recipe, but red onions are a great swap if you want a bit more bite. Try to slice them thin so they cook quickly without getting mushy.
Fun Fact: When slicing onions, keep a small dish of vinegar nearby; it helps neutralize the fumes and keeps the tears at bay!
Spices
A key element to making these fajitas shine is the spice mix. I typically go with cumin, paprika, chili powder, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. This combo loads the shrimp up with tons of flavor! Feel free to experiment or add a little heat with cayenne pepper if you’re feeling spicy.
Tip: Mixing the spices together in a small bowl first helps distribute the flavors evenly instead of adding them straight into the pan.
Olive Oil
For sautéing the veggies and shrimp, olive oil is my go-to! It’s versatile and packed with healthy fats, making it a great choice. If you prefer, you can use other cooking oils, like avocado oil or canola oil, but I find that olive oil enhances the flavors beautifully.
Note: Always heat the oil in your skillet before adding ingredients. A hot pan is key for that perfect sizzle!
Tortillas
What’s a fajita without the perfect tortilla? I recommend soft flour tortillas for their texture and flavor, but corn tortillas can work as well. If you want to make it a bit healthier, use whole wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps for an awesome low-carb option.
Tip: Warm your tortillas in a dry skillet for a couple of minutes on each side before serving, this makes them softer and easier to fold!
Avocado & Toppings
You can’t forget the toppings! I love adding sliced avocado and guacamole (who doesn’t?), along with a drizzle of salsa or fresh cilantro right before serving. You can also throw on some sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Pro Tip: If you have any fresh lime on hand, a squeeze right before serving elevates everything to another level!
How to Make Sizzling Zesty Shrimp Fajitas
Marinate the Shrimp (15 minutes) : In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Mix well and let it sit for about 15-30 minutes to soak up the flavors. Trust me; this marinade makes all the difference!
Sauté the Veggies (5-7 minutes) : While shrimp is marinating, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil if needed, then toss in sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté stirring occasionally until they soften and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a little crunch!
Cook the Shrimp (5-6 minutes) : Push the cooked veggies to the side of the skillet and add the marinated shrimp. Cook for 3-5 minutes until shrimp are opaque and cooked through (they’ll turn pink). Make sure to scrape the yummy bits off the bottom of the pan, those bits are flavor gold!
Warm the Tortillas (2-3 minutes) : While the shrimp is cooking, warm your tortillas in a separate pan (or microwave if you’re in a hurry!). Just give them about 30 seconds on each side in a dry skillet until soft and warm.
Serve Up (5 minutes) : Assemble your fajitas by serving the shrimp and veggies in the warm tortillas. Add sliced avocado, guacamole, salsa, and any other toppings you love! Enjoy these delicious creations with your family and friends!
Why I Love This Recipe
This is my go-to recipe when I need something quick yet satisfying. I’m a real sucker for shrimp, and combining it with those gorgeous, vibrant vegetables just makes my heart sing! Plus, they’re a hit, my picky eight-year-old even asks for seconds, which is saying something! And the best part is, you can use whatever ingredients you have on hand, which makes this dish super easy to whip up anytime.
If you loved this Sizzling Zesty Shrimp Fajitas, be sure to check out my Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, my Shrimp Boil Foil Packets, or my Mango Shrimp Salsa!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes it’s literally perfect for busy weeknights! You can have a delicious dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Customizable
With just a few simple swaps, you can turn this recipe into something uniquely yours. Use whatever vegetables, seasonings, or proteins you have available. Love spicy food? Add more heat! Want it more citrusy? Toss in some lime juice or zest!
Comfort Food
Nothing beats the satisfaction of piling your favorite fillings into a soft tortilla. This meal is loaded with tons of flavor, and it just feels like a warm hug! It’s a recipe that brings everyone together around the table.
One Pan
What’s awesome is that it comes together all in one pan, minimizing cleanup afterward. You can cook it up, eat it, and be done, all without tables and tables of dishes screaming at you afterward. Easy peasy!
Family-Friendly
Talk about a crowd-pleaser! Even if your family is split on their favorites, they’ll find something to love in these fajitas. It’s so simple to customize each one that everyone can get what they want.
How to Serve This Sizzling Zesty Shrimp Fajitas
When it comes to serving, the possibilities are endless! You can enjoy these fajitas as a quick lunch or dinner during the week. Serve them alongside some mexican rice or refried beans for a more hearty meal. Don’t forget a refreshing side of chips and salsa or even corn guacamole to complete your fajita feast!
Storage
These fajitas are best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to make this a meal prep recipe, you can store cooked shrimp and veggies separately from the tortillas.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, warm up the shrimp and veggies in the skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
Freezer Friendly
Yes, this recipe is freezer-friendly! Just make sure to freeze the cooked shrimp and veggies separately. You can store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Let me tell you again, this Sizzling Zesty Shrimp Fajitas is a brilliant, simple recipe that you’ll want to keep on repeat in your house. Whether you’re running short on time or just want something delish, these fajitas hit the spot just right! Happy cooking, friends! Follow us on Pinterest for daily meal inspiration!
Sizzling Zesty Shrimp Fajitas
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Mix well and let it sit for about 15-30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil if needed, then toss in sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté stirring occasionally until they soften and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Push the cooked veggies to the side of the skillet and add the marinated shrimp. Cook for 3-5 minutes until shrimp are opaque and cooked through (they’ll turn pink).
- Warm your tortillas in a separate pan for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and warm.
- Assemble your fajitas by serving the shrimp and veggies in the warm tortillas. Add sliced avocado, guacamole, salsa, and any other toppings you love!