Heart Healthy Blackened Shrimp Fajitas

(5.0)
By Judy Capodanno
Updated 1/19/2026
Dietitian Reviewed: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT
Approved for These Diets:
Heart Healthy | Diabetic
Heart Healthy Blackened Shrimp Fajitas
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

Make your next meal a celebration with these bold, chili-kissed blackened shrimp fajitas bursting with garden-fresh veggies. Our dietitian-approved recipe simplifies the classic "blackening" technique, using a custom blend of ancho chili powder and smoked paprika to achieve that signature deep, smoky flavor. By sautéing succulent, lean shrimp with a vibrant trio of red, green, and yellow bell peppers, you get a 30-minute dinner that fits perfectly into a Mediterranean diet. 

See more healthy shrimp recipes.

Total Time
30 minutes
Servings
4
Calories
351

What Makes These Heart Healthy Blackened Shrimp Fajitas Healthy

This recipe prioritizes lean protein and heart-healthy fats by using large shrimp and monounsaturated olive oil. By utilizing a salt-conscious homemade spice blend and high-fiber vegetables, these fajitas provide a nutrient-dense alternative to traditional restaurant versions.

Key Health Highlights

  • Lean Protein Source: Large shrimp provide a high-protein, low-calorie base that supports muscle health without excess saturated fat.
  • Antioxidant-Rich Peppers: Using three colors of bell peppers ensures a high intake of Vitamin C and carotenoids to support immune function.
  • Healthy Fats: Sliced avocado adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and additional fiber to help manage cholesterol levels.
  • Reduced-Sodium Seasoning: Our custom spice blend focuses on ancho chili and onion powder for bold flavor, significantly reducing the sodium compared to pre-packaged mixes.
  • Diabetic Friendly: The combination of fiber from the veggies and lean protein helps prevent sharp blood sugar spikes after your meal.
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FAQs About Blackened Shrimp Fajitas

Yes! When made at home with lean protein, minimal oil, and a high ratio of vegetables, shrimp fajitas are a heart-healthy and low-calorie meal option.

Focus on aromatic spices like onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Avoid "seasoned salt" and use dried herbs to provide depth of flavor without the extra sodium.

Absolutely. Just ensure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry with a paper towel before adding the spices to ensure the seasoning sticks and the shrimp sear properly.

Sauté the vegetables over high heat for a shorter duration (5–7 minutes). This allows them to soften while maintaining a slight "snap" and bright color.

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Ingredients

Recipe yields 4 servings

Helpful How-To Video

Directions

  1. Step 1

    In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, ancho chili powder, paprika, onion powder, cumin, garlic powder and salt and black pepper. Set aside.

  2. Step 2

    In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add the bell peppers and onion and sauté until tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the vegetables from the skillet.

  3. Step 3

    In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and the shrimp and cook on medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the shrimp are no longer pink.

  4. Step 4

    Divide the shrimp, vegetables and sliced avocado among the tortillas. Garnish with the cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size:
1 fajita

351
Calories
16
g
Fat
174
mg
Cholesterol
460
mg
Sodium
24
g
Carbs
3
g
Sat. Fat
4
g
Fiber
28
g
Protein
1
g
Sugars

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Sheet Pan Method: For a hands-off approach, toss the seasoned shrimp, peppers, and onions with olive oil and spread them on a large baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (205°C) for 10–12 minutes until the shrimp are opaque.
  • Grilling: Use a grill basket for the peppers and onions, and thread the shrimp onto skewers. Grill over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side for a charred, outdoor flavor.

Serving & Storage Tips

  • How to Reheat: To keep the shrimp from becoming rubbery, reheat them quickly in a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through, rather than using a microwave.
  • Keep Tortillas Soft: Wrap your tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15 seconds or warm them briefly in a dry skillet to keep them pliable for folding.
  • Meal Prep: Store the shrimp and sautéed vegetables together in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store the avocado separately and slice just before serving to prevent browning.

Serving Variations:

  • Shrimp Fajita Salad: Skip the tortilla and serve the warm shrimp and veggies over a bed of mixed greens with a dollop of Greek yogurt as a "sour cream" substitute.
  • Zesty Cabbage Slaw: Add a crunchy texture by serving these with a side of shredded cabbage tossed in lime juice and cilantro.
  • Mediterranean Twist: Add halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta cheese to align even closer with Mediterranean diet flavors.

What to Serve With Blackened Shrimp Fajitas:

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the flour tortillas for large butter lettuce leaves or a bed of cauliflower rice to reduce the carbohydrate count.

If you don't have shrimp, you can use thin strips of chicken breast or firm tofu, adjusting the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

If ancho chili powder is too spicy, use a mild chili powder or increase the paprika for a sweeter, smokier profile.

Ensure you use certified gluten-free corn tortillas or grain-free wraps in place of standard flour tortillas.

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