Quick Overview of Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas
Sheet pan shrimp fajitas are a delicious and simple option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Combining the savory flavors of shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and spices, this dish encapsulates the essence of Mexican cuisine while ensuring minimal cleanup. Utilizing a single sheet pan makes cooking and serving easy, making it a go-to recipe for many.
Ingredients Needed
For the Shrimp Mixture:
- Shrimp: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Look for wild-caught shrimp for better flavor.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. This adds richness and helps with the cooking process.
- Lime Juice: Juice of 1 lime. Fresh juice enhances the overall flavor.
For Vegetables:
- Bell Peppers: 2 medium-sized bell peppers (red, yellow, or green). Slice them into thin strips for even cooking and presentation.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, sliced. A sweet onion is recommended to balance the spices.
Seasoning Mix:
- Chili Powder: 2 teaspoons for a mild kick.
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon for an earthy flavor.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon to add depth.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for a savory essence.
- Oregano: 1 teaspoon for a herby touch.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon or to taste.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon for pungency.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional): ½ teaspoon if you like some extra heat.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the shrimp cook quickly and that the vegetables caramelize, adding extra flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, and half of the seasoning mix (reserving the other half for the vegetables). Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with the mixture. Allow marination for about 15-20 minutes to let the flavors penetrate.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
On a large sheet pan, spread out the sliced bell peppers and onions. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with the rest of the seasoning mix, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
After the shrimp has marinated, add it directly to the sheet pan with the vegetables. Spread everything out in an even layer, making sure the shrimp is not overcrowded. This allows for even cooking and prevents steaming.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the vegetables are tender. Toss halfway through for even cooking.
Suggested Serving Methods
Tortillas
Serve the sheet pan shrimp fajitas with warm flour or corn tortillas for a traditional touch. Heat the tortillas on the stovetop or wrap them in aluminum foil and warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Toppings
Offer a variety of toppings to enhance the dish. Suggestions include:
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado goodness that pairs well with shrimp.
- Sour Cream: Adds a silky texture and coolness to balance spices.
- Pico de Gallo: Freshly made salsa gives a burst of freshness.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Mexican blend brings richness.
- Lime Wedges: A fresh squeeze of lime elevates the dish.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh shrimp and vegetables to ensure maximum flavor.
- Even Slicing: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If your pan is overflowing, consider using two trays. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Cooking Time: Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. They are cooked when they turn pink and opaque.
- Batch Cooking: If meal prepping, cook extra shrimp and vegetables to use in tacos or salads throughout the week.
Variations on the Recipe
- Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp for a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, and squash. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Chicken Fajitas: Substitute shrimp for sliced chicken breast, adjusting cooking time to about 20-25 minutes for thorough cooking.
- Spicy Fajitas: Increase levels of cayenne or jalapeños for a heat kick. Adding sliced jalapeños to the veggies is a great option.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on four servings):
- Calories: Approximately 300
- **Protein
