Introduction
Skillet shrimp fajitas and cilantro rice offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are perfect for any meal. This dish combines succulent shrimp sautéed with vibrant peppers and onions, served alongside fragrant cilantro rice. The combination is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends and family.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined
Bell peppers: 1 red and 1 green, sliced
Onion: 1 medium, sliced
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Cilantro: 1/2 cup, chopped
Rice: 1 cup, uncooked
Lime: 1, juiced
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Cumin: 1 teaspoon
Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Cilantro Rice
1. Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 1 ¾ cups of water and a pinch of salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
5. Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavor.
Prepare the Shrimp
1. In a bowl, toss 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt to taste.
2. Set the seasoned shrimp aside to marinate while you prepare the vegetables.
Sauté the Vegetables
1. Slice 1 red bell pepper, 1 green bell pepper, and 1 onion into thin strips.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced vegetables to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and slightly charred.
4. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp
1. In the same skillet, add the marinated shrimp to the hot oil.
2. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
3. Once cooked, add the sautéed vegetables back to the skillet to heat through.
Serve the Fajitas
1. Warm tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave.
2. To serve, place the shrimp and vegetable mixture in the center of each tortilla.
3. Top with additional cilantro, avocado, or your favorite salsa if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving with lime wedges on the side for added freshness.
Storage Information
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Customization Options
Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Cook techniques
Marinating shrimp
Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, and spices to enhance the flavor.
Searing shrimp
Sear the shrimp in a hot skillet for a quick cook to achieve a caramelized texture.
Stir-frying vegetables
Stir-fry bell peppers and onions in the same skillet to retain their crunch and flavor.
Cooking rice
Cook the cilantro rice separately, allowing it to absorb the flavors of cilantro and lime for added freshness.
Plating
Serve the shrimp and vegetables over a bed of cilantro rice, creating a visually appealing dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.
What can I substitute for cilantro?
If you don’t like cilantro, you can use parsley or omit it altogether.
How spicy are these fajitas?
The spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or fewer spices, such as chili powder or jalapeños.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time but it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh before serving.
What sides pair well with shrimp fajitas?
Consider serving with a side of guacamole, salsa, or tortilla chips for added variety.
Conclusion
Enjoying skillet shrimp fajitas paired with cilantro rice is a delightful way to savor a blend of flavors and textures. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The freshness of the ingredients combined with the bold spices creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Fajitas
Swap shrimp for chicken for a hearty version of fajitas, seasoned and cooked in the same flavorful way.
Vegetable Fajitas
For a vegetarian option, toss a variety of colorful bell peppers, onions, and zucchini with fajita seasoning for a delicious veggie-filled dish.
Fish Tacos
Use a white fish like tilapia or cod, seasoned and grilled, to create fresh fish tacos topped with slaw and avocado.
Quinoa Salad
Serve a refreshing quinoa salad with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette as a light side dish.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Fill bell peppers with a mixture of shrimp, rice, and spices for a fun and tasty twist on fajitas.
Chips and Guacamole
Prepare a side of crunchy tortilla chips with creamy guacamole for a classic appetizer to complement your meal.