Shrimp Fajitas
Sizzling, juicy shrimp tossed with charred bell peppers and onions in a smoky, zesty marinade. These quick Tex-Mex fajitas come together in one skillet in under 30 minutes, perfect for stuffing into warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~10 min
Marinate the shrimp.
1.In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tbsp olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.2.Add the shrimp and toss well to coat evenly.3.Set aside at room temperature for 10 minutes.TIPDon't marinate shrimp longer than 20 minutes — the lime juice starts cooking the shrimp and can make it mushy. - saute · ~6 min
Sear the vegetables.
1.Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over high heat until shimmering.2.Add the sliced bell peppers and onion in a single layer.3.Cook without stirring for 2 minutes to get a char, then toss and cook 3-4 minutes more until crisp-tender with dark spots.TIPHigh heat and no stirring for the first 2 minutes is the secret to that restaurant-style char. - saute · ~4 min
Cook the shrimp.
1.Push vegetables to one side of the skillet.2.Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer on the empty side.3.Cook 2 minutes per side until pink, opaque, and slightly charred at the edges.TIPShrimp turn opaque and curl into a 'C' shape when perfectly done. Avoid overcrowding the pan. - assemble · ~1 min
Toss everything together.
1.Toss the shrimp and vegetables together in the skillet.2.Remove from heat immediately.3.Squeeze a wedge of lime over the top and scatter chopped cilantro. - serve · ~2 min
Warm the tortillas.
Warm tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame for 30 seconds per side until pliable and lightly charred.
TIPChar tortillas directly on a gas burner for the most authentic, smoky flavor. - serve
Serve immediately with toppings.
1.Spoon the shrimp and vegetable mixture onto warm tortillas.2.Top with a dollop of sour cream and serve with extra lime wedges.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pat shrimp dry before marinating to help the seasonings stick and prevent steaming.
- 2Use a cast iron skillet for the best sear and to hold high heat evenly.
- 3Don't overcrowd the shrimp; cook in a single layer for a caramelized crust.
- 4Slice bell peppers and onions uniformly for even cooking and char.
- 5Warm corn tortillas directly over a gas flame for authentic smoky flavor.
- 6Have all toppings ready before you start cooking — this dish comes together fast.
- 7Leftover shrimp fajitas keep well in the fridge for 2 days; reheat in a dry skillet.
Adapt it for your goals.
Low-oil
Reduce olive oil to 1 tablespoon total and use a nonstick skillet; skip marinating oil. Perfect for those watching their fat intake.
High proteinHigh-protein
Double the shrimp to 1.2 kg and add a can of drained black beans to the vegetable mix for extra fiber and protein.
Dairy freeDairy-free
Replace sour cream with a dollop of cashew cream or dairy-free yogurt; all other ingredients are already dairy-free.
Gluten freeGluten-free
Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas; the marinade and vegetables are naturally gluten-free.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Shrimp provide high-quality, low-fat protein essential for muscle repair and satiety.
Rich in Antioxidants
Bell peppers are packed with vitamin C and beta-carotene, supporting immune health and skin vitality.
Anti-Inflammatory Spices
Cumin and chili powder contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, thaw them completely under cold running water and pat very dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture.



