Name: Shrimp Fajitas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 Tbsp lime juice (from 1/2 lime); 1 Tbsp Cajun spice; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced; 1/2 medium onion, sliced; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 2-3 tsp lime juice (from 1/2 lime); 8 small flour tortillas; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 lime, cut into wedges; Jalapeno Ranch (for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 32 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant, zesty dinner that dazzles with flavor and colors, this Shrimp Fajitas Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines succulent, cajun-spiced shrimp with tender, caramelized bell peppers and onions, all wrapped in warm flour tortillas. The marinade of garlic, lime, and spices truly makes every bite burst with freshness and a hint of smokiness, perfect for a casual weeknight or impressing guests without fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with peeled, raw shrimp showing a mix of white and light pink colors is placed on a white marbled surface. Around the bowl are fresh vegetables and ingredients arranged neatly: a whole yellow onion with light brown skin at the top center, a bright red bell pepper and a yellow bell pepper side by side to the right, a whole green lime below the onion, and fresh green cilantro leaves to the far right. In front of these, smaller bowls hold seasoning and oil - a small wooden bowl with white salt, a small yellow bowl with orange spice powder, and a small clear glass bowl with light yellow oil. Several cloves of garlic are scattered near the smaller bowls. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Shrimp Fajitas Recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the tangy lime juice adding brightness to the rich cajun spices giving it that smoky kick, these essentials come together for a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color.

1/4 cup olive oil: The base for your marinade that keeps everything moist and helps those spices stick.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic depth and a punch of savory flavor.
1 Tbsp lime juice (from 1/2 lime): Provides a fresh, tangy zip that livens up the shrimp and veggies.
1 Tbsp cajun spice: The star seasoning that brings smoky, spicy warmth.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined): The protein of choice that cooks quickly and stays tender.
2 bell peppers (any color, sliced): Offer vibrant crunch and sweetness.
1/2 medium onion (sliced): Adds savory sharpness that softens beautifully when sautéed.
1/4 cup cilantro (chopped): Fresh herbaceous notes for brightness at the end.
2-3 tsp lime juice (from 1/2 lime): For that extra fresh squeeze just before serving.
8 small flour tortillas: The cozy vessels to wrap up your fajitas.
Jalapeno Ranch: A creamy, spicy sauce to drizzle on top, though you can swap for your favorite condiment.
1 avocado (sliced): Creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the spices.
1 lime (cut into wedges): For garnish and extra zesty lime love at the table.

How to Make Shrimp Fajitas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Vegetables

Start by mixing the marinade ingredients: olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, cajun spice, and salt. This mixture will infuse the shrimp and veggies with a fantastic blend of tangy, smoky, and garlicky goodness. Slice your bell peppers and onions evenly so they cook uniformly, then toss half of the marinade over them, allowing their natural sweetness to mingle with the spices.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry to ensure they sear nicely, then coat them with the remaining half of the marinade. This even distribution lets the shrimp soak up all those vibrant flavors without any leftover wetness that could steam them instead of sautéing.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large pan over medium heat, add a little oil, and sauté the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them quickly—about 1 to 2 minutes per side—until they turn opaque and just firm to the touch. Removing them promptly ensures they don’t become rubbery.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, toss in your marinated bell peppers and onions. Cook them over medium heat until they’re soft but still with a slight bite, and edges begin to caramelize—roughly 10 minutes. This step builds a sweet, roasted flavor that contrasts beautifully with the cajun spice.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan, stir in the chopped cilantro, and squeeze fresh lime juice over the entire mixture. This final toss lets the ingredients marry their flavors just before serving, creating a bright, irresistible filling ready to be wrapped up in warm tortillas.

How to Serve Shrimp Fajitas Recipe

Three soft flour tortillas are open-faced on a white marbled surface. Each tortilla is topped with a mix of cooked shrimp and sliced red and yellow bell peppers, all lightly charred and seasoned with green herbs. A creamy white sauce is drizzled over the shrimp and vegetables in thick, irregular stripes. Fresh green cilantro leaves are scattered on and around the tortillas. To the right, two lime halves with bright green rinds and pale green juicy insides sit on the surface. The colors are bright and fresh, with a mix of warm cooked tones and cool herb greens. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you personalize your Shrimp Fajitas Recipe. Fresh slices of avocado add creaminess, while lime wedges provide a burst of refreshing acidity when squeezed. A drizzle of jalapeno ranch brings a delightful kick and a cooling finish, balancing the warm spices perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair your fajitas with simple yet complementary sides like Mexican street corn, a crisp green salad, or even cilantro-lime rice. These options keep the meal vibrant and flavorful without stealing the spotlight from the main event.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, set up a fajita bar with all the components laid out and let everyone build their own wraps. Alternatively, serve the shrimp and veggies over a bed of mixed greens for a low-carb option that still keeps all the fajita flavors intact.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your feast, pack any leftovers into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. The shrimp and vegetables stay flavorful for up to 2 days, making for convenient next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

While shrimp fajitas are best fresh, you can freeze the cooked shrimp and veggies separately if needed. Store them in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that the texture might soften slightly after freezing, but the flavors remain delightful.

Reheating

Reheat your shrimp and vegetables gently in a pan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you can, as this can cause the shrimp to become rubbery. Warm the tortillas separately on a skillet or wrapped in foil in the oven for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Fajitas Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating to ensure they cook evenly and don’t become watery.

What if I’m not a fan of spicy food?

You can easily tone down the heat by reducing the cajun spice or using a mild fajita seasoning blend. The flavors will still be vibrant without overwhelming your palate.

Can I substitute the flour tortillas?

Yes! Corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps work great as alternatives. They each add their own texture and flavor to the dish, so feel free to experiment.

Is this Shrimp Fajitas Recipe gluten-free?

The shrimp, marinade, and vegetables are naturally gluten-free. Just opt for gluten-free tortillas or serve with lettuce wraps to keep the entire meal safe for gluten-sensitive diners.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Swap shrimp for sliced mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh and use the same marinade and cooking method. The spices and vegetables will keep it tasty and satisfying for plant-based eaters.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Fajitas Recipe is a wonderful dish to brighten up any mealtime with its bold flavors and easy preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or feeding a crowd, it always hits the spot. Dive into these sizzling shrimp fajitas and enjoy the fantastic combo of spice, zest, and fresh ingredients that make every bite truly memorable. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!