Shrimp Fajitas
Craving a quick and tasty meal? Shrimp fajitas are the perfect choice! With succulent shrimp and colorful vegetables sautéed to perfection, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Serve it with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for an unforgettable dining experience. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that brings the taste of Mexico to your kitchen!
Ingredients
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas for serving
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 10-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 3g
This is based on a serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Toss in sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Season the vegetables with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet.
7. Add shrimp to the empty side of the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
8. Stir the shrimp and vegetables together until well combined and heated through.
9. Remove from heat and let sit for a minute.
10. Serve with warm tortillas and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option. Use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to add variety to the dish.
Serving and Pairings
Serve shrimp fajitas with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for added flavor. They pair well with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Shrimp fajitas are not recommended for freezing, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should be pink and opaque.
– Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.
– Use fresh spices for maximum flavor.
– Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
– Ensure vegetables are cut evenly for consistent cooking.
Helpful Tips
– Squeeze lime juice over the fajitas for a zesty kick.
– Experiment with different types of tortillas, such as corn or whole wheat.
– Marinate shrimp for an hour beforehand for extra flavor.
– Keep the heat moderate to prevent burning.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.
What can I serve with shrimp fajitas?
Shrimp fajitas pair well with rice, beans, and various toppings like guacamole, salsa, and cheese for a complete meal.
How do I make shrimp fajitas spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the vegetables while cooking for an extra kick of heat.
Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can slice the vegetables and marinate the shrimp a few hours before cooking for convenience.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, shrimp fajitas can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.
Conclusion
Shrimp fajitas are a delightful and easy dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. With their quick preparation and versatility, they are perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy the fresh ingredients and the joy of homemade Mexican cuisine!
Shrimp Fajitas
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 bell pepper red, yellow, or green, sliced
- 1 onion sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortillas for serving
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss in sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Season the vegetables with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet.
- Add shrimp to the empty side of the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Stir the shrimp and vegetables together until well combined and heated through.
- Remove from heat and let sit for a minute.
- Serve with warm tortillas and garnish with fresh cilantro.
