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Easy One-Pan Shrimp Fajitas Recipe with Zesty Lime Crema for Perfect Dinner

easy one-pan shrimp fajitas - featured image

A quick and easy one-pan shrimp fajitas recipe featuring tender shrimp, crisp-tender peppers and onions, and a zesty lime crema for a fresh, flavorful dinner in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught if possible)
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 medium yellow or white onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • A small handful cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • For the Zesty Lime Crema:
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: a dash of cayenne pepper
  • Flour or corn tortillas for serving (warm before plating)

Instructions

  1. Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips (about 1/4-inch thick). Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, juice of 1/2 lime, pinch of salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Refrigerate until serving.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Add the sliced onions and peppers to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until softened but still crisp with some charred spots. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  5. Add a little more oil to the skillet if needed, then add the shrimp. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque with a slight golden crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  6. Return the sautéed peppers and onions to the skillet with the shrimp. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and toss together for 1-2 minutes to blend flavors and warm through. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
  7. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Plate the shrimp and veggies, drizzle with lime crema, and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before cooking to ensure a good sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor in the crema. Warm tortillas just before serving for softness and pliability. For gluten-free, use corn tortillas or lettuce wraps. For dairy-free crema, substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt or cashew-based alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp fajitas, one-pan meal, quick dinner, lime crema, easy fajitas, weeknight dinner, seafood recipe, Mexican cuisine