Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Try my Sheet-Pan Chili Lime Shrimp Fajitas! This dish is packed with flavor and comes together in just a few simple steps. With fresh shrimp, vibrant bell peppers, and zesty lime, your taste buds will thank you. Plus, clean-up is a breeze with just one pan. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and make your next weeknight dinner exciting!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
The ingredients in this recipe are simple yet full of flavor. The shrimp are the star of the dish, providing a juicy and tender bite. You want to use large shrimp for the best texture. The bell peppers add color and sweetness, while the red onion brings a mild sharpness.
Olive oil coats the ingredients, helping them roast evenly. Chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder give the fajitas a zesty kick. Fresh lime juice brightens the dish and enhances all the flavors.
For garnish, fresh cilantro adds a lovely herbal note. Lime wedges serve as a perfect finishing touch to squeeze over the fajitas. These ingredients come together quickly for a meal that is both tasty and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Baking Sheet
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper
Start by preheating your oven. This step helps cook the shrimp and veggies evenly. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup easy. It also prevents the shrimp from sticking, keeping them nice and tender.
Mixing Ingredients
- Combine shrimp, bell peppers, and red onion
- Prepare the seasoning mix in a separate bowl
In a large bowl, mix the shrimp, sliced red and yellow bell peppers, and red onion. Make sure everything is well combined. In a separate bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk this mixture until smooth. This seasoning gives the dish its zesty flavor.
Cooking Procedure
- Toss mixture and spread on the baking sheet
- Bake and monitor cooking time
Now, pour the seasoning over the shrimp and veggies. Toss everything well to coat. Then, spread the mixture in a single layer on your baking sheet. Bake it in the oven for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it. The shrimp will turn pink, and the veggies should be tender. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Enjoy your delicious fajitas!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Results
To cook shrimp just right, watch the color. Shrimp will turn pink and opaque when done. Overcooking makes them tough, so stay alert! Use a timer for 10 to 12 minutes of baking.
When picking fresh shrimp, look for a mild scent. They should have a shiny skin and firm texture. Avoid shrimp with a strong fishy smell or dark spots.
Preparation Tips
Slicing veggies is easy. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Slice bell peppers and onions thin for quick cooking. This helps them stay crisp while baking.
For marinating, let the shrimp soak up flavors. Mix the shrimp with the marinade for at least 15 minutes. This makes each bite tasty.
Serving Suggestions
Warm tortillas are key. Flour tortillas are soft and easy to fold. Corn tortillas add a nice crunch. Choose what you like best!
For sides, consider black beans or rice. They add heartiness to the meal. You can also serve with fresh salsa or guacamole. Enjoy every bite!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the veggies in this dish. Try using zucchini, mushrooms, or corn. These add great color and flavor. If you want to change proteins, chicken or tofu work well too. Each option brings its own taste and texture, making the dish unique.
Flavor Adjustments
Want more heat? Add more chili powder or some cayenne pepper. For less spice, cut back on the chili powder. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can really brighten the dish. Just sprinkle them on top before serving for a fresh twist.
Serving Style Variations
You can serve this dish as a salad. Just toss the shrimp and veggies with greens. This makes it lighter and fresh. Another fun option is to turn it into a rice bowl. Just add cooked rice to the bottom and top with the shrimp and veggies. This way, you get a hearty meal in a bowl!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your cooked fajitas, let them cool first. Then, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to eat your leftovers, reheat them carefully. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat it over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and toss the fajitas. This method keeps the shrimp juicy and the veggies crisp. You can also use the microwave, but it may make the texture softer. Cover them with a damp paper towel for better results.
Freezing Options
If you plan to freeze the fajitas, do so right after they cool. Use a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months. To thaw, place the container in the fridge overnight. For quick cooking, you can cook them from frozen on the stove. Just add a little extra time to ensure they heat through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the shrimp cook evenly. Fresh shrimp taste great, but frozen shrimp work well too. They are often more convenient and still tasty.
How spicy are these fajitas?
These fajitas have a mild spice level. The chili powder adds flavor without too much heat. If you like more spice, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also serve hot sauce on the side. Adjust the seasonings based on your taste.
What toppings go well with fajitas?
Toppings can make your fajitas even better. Here are some tasty options:
- Fresh cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Avocado or guacamole
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Sliced jalapeños
- Lime wedges
Feel free to mix and match your favorites!
This blog post offered a simple guide for making shrimp fajitas. You learned about the key ingredients, from fresh shrimp to colorful veggies. We covered step-by-step cooking instructions and shared tips for perfect results. You now have ideas for variations and how to store leftovers.
In conclusion, you can easily customize this dish to suit your taste. With a few changes, your shrimp fajitas can become a new favorite meal. Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your own!
