This is a recipe that many would refer to as shrimp fajitas with rice or a shrimp fajita bowl with cilantro lime rice. I refuse because I’m a bit pedantic when it comes to fajitas. This is Mexican-inspired sauteed shrimp with cilantro rice. Rice bowls are popular for many reasons. With this one, you can indulge your love of Mexican flavors and shrimp with an easy-to-prepare weekday meal.
Note on shrimp: You may want to read a bit more about purchasing shrimp.
See also: Why Use Leftover Rice For Fried Rice?
Description
Mexican-inspired sauteed shrimp with flavorful cilantro lime rice.
Ingredients
Cilantro-Lime Rice Ingredients:
1 cups long-grain rice
2 large limes, both juice and zest
1 tsp. ground cumin
¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Other Ingredients:
2 tbs. extra virgin olive oil (+ more, if needed)
1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 medium yellow pepper, thinly sliced
1 medium orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 medium white or red onion, thinly sliced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
½ tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Additional cilantro and lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Cook the rice according to package directions. One cup of rice should yield about three cups cooked. Add the cooked rice, lime juice, lime zest, ground cumin, and cilantro to a large bowl. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and stir to combine. Cover to keep warm and set aside.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add two tablespoons olive oil to skillet. Add the onions and saute for about one minute, then add the bell peppers. Season with salt and black pepper and stir to combine. Cook the peppers and onions, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and develop a bit of color, approximately 10 minutes.
3. Season the shrimp with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Remove the sauteed vegetables from the skillet and add the shrimp to the pan. If needed, add a little more olive oil. Cook just until the shrimp turns opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes. Do not overcook.
4. To serve, divide the seasoned rice between four serving bowls and top each bowl with the cooked vegetables and shrimp. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges, if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
For more flavor, cook the rice in chicken or vegetable stock. Chicken or vegetable bouillon cubes are an easy way to flavor rice and more, in place of stock.
Instead of chili powder, use a mixture of different chile powders for maximum flavor.
