Shrimp Fajitas
Juicy shrimp marinated in zesty lime and herbs, then grilled with vibrant spices, served in warm tortillas with fresh salsa and guacamole for a flavorful Mexican feast.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp vegetable oil ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp lime juice ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp chopped fresh oregano or 1/2 tsp diced oregano leaves ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped ⓘ
- 1 lb raw medium shrimp, peeled and deveined ⓘ
- 8 flour tortillas (8-inch diameter), warmed ⓘ
- 1/2 cup salsa ⓘ
- 1/4 cup purchased refrigerated guacamole
Instructions
- Mix vegetable oil, lime juice, oregano, cumin, and garlic in a shallow glass or plastic dish.
- Stir in the shrimp to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to marinate.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh oregano if available, but dried oregano works well too. If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using lime zest in the marinade. You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option. To save time, marinate the shrimp in the morning and cook them later for a quick dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp fajitas with warm tortillas, salsa, and guacamole for a delicious meal. Pair with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete dinner. A fresh salad or corn on the cob can also complement the dish nicely. For a refreshing drink, consider serving with a cold margarita or iced tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shrimp fajitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave them, but be cautious to avoid overcooking the shrimp, which can become tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Fajitas contains roughly 337 calories, with 29g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1343mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. Place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water to speed up the process. Pat them dry before adding to the marinade to ensure the flavors stick.
What can I add to the fajitas for extra flavor?
You can add sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet when cooking the shrimp for added flavor and texture. This not only enhances the dish but also provides a colorful presentation. Additionally, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish.
How do I make these fajitas spicy?
To add some heat, include sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the marinade. You can also use spicy salsa when serving. For a unique twist, try serving with a side of Gazpacho Shrimp, which offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy fajitas.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).