Steak Fajitas with Seafood Mix

Name: Steak Fajitas with Seafood Mix
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 oz calamari, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large flour tortillas; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; Sour cream and guacamole (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Culinary Recipe Ideas

I absolutely love creating unique fajitas, and this Steak Fajitas with Seafood Mix is a testament to that passion. The combination of tender steak and succulent seafood, all wrapped in warm tortillas, is simply irresistible. I've spent countless evenings perfecting the marinade and cooking technique, and I'm thrilled to share this recipe. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these fajitas deliver bold flavors and a touch of sophistication that will leave everyone asking for more.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:42:30.855Z

During one memorable dinner party, I decided to blend traditional steak fajitas with a seafood twist, and the results were phenomenal. Using a variety of spices, I seasoned the steak and mixed in shrimp and calamari, creating a dish that delighted all my guests. The secret lies in allowing the seafood to marinate slightly in the same spices, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

I also discovered that grilling the steak and seafood on high heat for just the right amount of time ensures each ingredient remains juicy and tender. The vibrant colors of the peppers and onions add an enticing visual appeal, making this a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A thrilling combination of steak and seafood for a unique twist
Marinated to perfection for depth of flavor
Packed with colorful veggies that brighten up the dish

      

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the flank steak is crucial for infusing it with robust flavors. The combination of olive oil, lime juice, and spices creates a tenderizing effect, enhancing the meat's natural juiciness. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you can spare an hour, the taste will be even more pronounced. Make sure the marinade completely coats the beef; this not only adds flavor but also helps form a nice crust when grilled.

Consider using a resealable plastic bag for marinating. This method ensures every inch of the steak gets the marinade. When ready to cook, let the excess marinade drip off to avoid flare-ups on the grill, which can lead to uneven cooking. A properly marinated steak turns grilling into a masterpiece of flavor and texture.

Enhancing Seafood Flavors

When preparing the seafood mix, both shrimp and calamari require care to stay tender. The key is not to overcook them—2-3 minutes on high heat should suffice. Monitor the shrimp closely as they change color from gray to a vibrant pink; this is your cue to remove them from the heat. For the calamari, it should become opaque and slightly curled without too much chewy texture. If you prefer, you can substitute calamari with scallops for a different taste profile.

Seasoning the seafood with paprika and Cajun spices not only adds flavor but also a beautiful color that enhances the visual appeal of your fajitas. If you're looking for a bit of heat, feel free to add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix. This seafood blend creates a delicious contrast to the marinated steak and should not be overlooked in the assembly.

Layering Flavors

Assembling your fajitas with the perfect balance of ingredients is an art. Start with a warm flour tortilla—this enhances the overall eating experience. Place a generous layer of sliced steak followed by the seafood, and then top with sautéed bell peppers and onion for added sweetness and crunch. I like to prioritize flavor layering, creating a mix of textures that is both satisfying and thrilling with every bite.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings! Sour cream acts as a cooling agent against the spices, while guacamole adds creaminess. You can also experiment with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for added flavor and spice. Serve your fajitas with lime wedges to drizzle on top, brightening the flavors and making each bite even more refreshing.

Ingredients

For the Steak Marinade

1 lb flank steak
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Seafood Mix

8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz calamari, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

4 large flour tortillas
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
Sour cream and guacamole (optional)

Instructions

Marinate the Steak

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the flank steak, covering it well with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to an hour for more flavor.

Prepare the Seafood

In another bowl, mix the shrimp and calamari with olive oil, paprika, cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it sit while the steak marinates.

Cook the Steak

Heat a grill or grill pan over high heat. Cook the marinated steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until medium-rare. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Cook the Seafood

In the same pan, quickly grill the seafood for about 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque, ensuring not to overcook.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a separate skillet, sauté the sliced peppers and onion until softened and slightly charred, about 5 minutes.

Assemble Fajitas

Slice the steak thinly and prepare the tortillas. Fill each tortilla with steak, seafood, and sautéed vegetables.

Serve

Top with sour cream and guacamole if desired, and enjoy your incredible steak and seafood fajitas!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, consider marinating the steak overnight. Also, feel free to add other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for extra variety.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning to serve these fajitas at a gathering, you can prepare the marinade and seafood mix a day in advance. Just ensure to store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This makes cooking day-of a breeze, allowing flavors to meld while avoiding a hectic kitchen environment. Remember to take the steak out of the fridge about 20 minutes before grilling to let it come to room temperature for even cooking.

For the sautéed vegetables, you can also prep them ahead of time. Slice the peppers and onions and store them in a sealed container in the fridge. Sauté them quickly right before serving to ensure they are hot and crispy, adding freshness to your dish.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover steak and seafood fajitas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheating them gently in a skillet over medium heat will help maintain texture and flavor. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the steak tough and the seafood chewy. Just a few minutes on the stove will revive the deliciousness of your meal.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the marinated steak before cooking. Seal it in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Cook your fajitas fresh for the best flavors and avoid freeze time impacting the exquisite combination of steak and seafood.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with the proteins used in this recipe. If you're not a fan of seafood, replace the shrimp and calamari with grilled chicken or skirt steak. You can also introduce different spices or herbs into the marinade for a unique flavor profile. For a healthier twist, switch to corn tortillas which are naturally gluten-free and bring a different texture to the dish.

Incorporating additional toppings or side dishes can elevate your fajitas as well. Try adding fresh corn salsa, pickled onions, or even a zesty slaw. Each of these options provides bursts of flavor and texture that can complement the existing ingredients, allowing you to personalize the dish while staying within its inspired theme.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of seafood?

Absolutely! Feel free to use scallops or any firm white fish in place of shrimp or calamari.

→ How do I store leftover fajitas?

Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ What can I substitute for flour tortillas?

You can use corn tortillas, lettuce wraps, or even whole grain wraps for a healthier option.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted. If you prefer milder fajitas, reduce the amount of chili powder and cajun seasoning.