There’s something truly delightful about the vibrant green of fresh basil, especially when it’s transformed into a creamy, aromatic pesto. Recently, I felt that familiar itch to escape the usual cooking routine, so I decided to whip up these Pesto Grilled Shrimp. Imagine biting into tender, juicy shrimp, perfectly infused with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic, all thanks to a simple homemade pesto that comes together in just minutes.
This dish not only elevates any weekday dinner but also dazzles at weekend gatherings, making it a true crowd-pleaser. The process is convenient too; a quick marinate, a few moments on the grill, and you’ve got a meal that tastes gourmet without all the fuss. Whether you’re entertaining friends or treating yourself to a well-deserved indulgence, these Pesto Grilled Shrimp are just what you need to rediscover your love for homemade food. Let’s get grilling!
Why love Pesto Grilled Shrimp tonight?
Taste explosion: Bursting with fresh basil and zesty lemon, this dish offers a restaurant-quality experience that’ll impress at any meal.
Easy to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes on the grill, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time.
Versatile meal: Perfect for summer nights or as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering.
Healthy choice: At only 184 calories per serving, it’s both satisfying and nutritious!
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the flavorful twist on traditional grilled shrimp.
Elevate your cooking skills and try this recipe for an unforgettable dining experience!
Pesto Grilled Shrimp Ingredients
• The fresh, vibrant ingredients make all the difference!
For the Pesto
- Basil – Adds a fragrant, aromatic punch that’s essential for authentic pesto.
- Garlic – Provides a warm, zesty flavor; don’t be shy, it’s key!
- Pine nuts – Toasted for a rich, nutty taste that complements the basil beautifully.
- Parmigiano Reggiano (parmesan) – Grated to add a savory depth; consider Pecorino as a substitute for a sharper flavor.
- Olive oil – Blends everything together while adding a silky texture; use extra virgin for the best results.
- Lemon juice (~1/4 lemon) – Brightens up the dish with a refreshing tang that livens the pesto; fresh is always best!
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste, enhancing all those fresh flavors.
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined) – The star of this dish, choose large shrimp for a more satisfying bite.
Give this Pesto Grilled Shrimp a try and treat your taste buds to something truly special!
How to Make Pesto Grilled Shrimp
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Prepare the Pesto: Pulse the basil, garlic, toasted pine nuts, grated parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, taking in the aromatic flavors.
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Marinate the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl and coat them generously with the pesto. Cover and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
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Skewer the Shrimp: Once marinated, thread the shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
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Grill the Shrimp: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewered shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn opaque and slightly charred.
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Serve the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Slide them off the skewers and serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Optional: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra splash of brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pesto Grilled Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftover Pesto Grilled Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep them juicy.
Freezer: If you have extra marinated shrimp, freeze them before cooking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and grill as usual.
Reheating: When reheating cooked shrimp, do so on a stovetop over low heat for best results. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to rubbery shrimp.
Marinating: If marinating the shrimp for future use, marinate only for a maximum of 2 hours before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Pesto Grilled Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pesto and marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for an even more delicious result. Simply pulse the basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then coat the shrimp and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain quality, ensure the shrimp is well-coated to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to grill, just skewer the marinated shrimp and cook them over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side for tender results that are just as delicious as if they were freshly made!
Pesto Grilled Shrimp Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine and explore these exciting twists!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute nutritional yeast for parmesan in your pesto for a vegan-friendly option that still packs a savory punch.
- Spicy Kick: Add a touch of red pepper flakes to your pesto for a delightful heat that pairs beautifully with the shrimp. A little heat goes a long way!
- Herb Mix: Enhance the flavor by incorporating other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into your pesto for a fragrant twist. You’ll be amazed at the vibrant taste!
- Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or lime zest into the marinade for a bright, refreshing edge that energizes every bite. Zesty surprises await you!
- Avocado Creaminess: Blend in half an avocado into your pesto for a creamier texture and a boost of healthy fats. It’s a luscious addition you won’t regret!
- Vegetable Pairing: Skewer veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes alongside the shrimp for a colorful and nutritious option. These veggies add flavor and texture!
- Grill Fusion: Consider grill-roasting the shrimp with a touch of coconut or maple syrup brushed on for a sweet caramelized finish. It’s an unexpected sweetness!
- Wood-Infused Flavor: Experiment with different wood chips on your grill, such as apple or cherry, to infuse your shrimp with unique smoky undertones. Each bite becomes an adventure!
What to Serve with Pesto Grilled Shrimp?
Imagine enjoying a sun-soaked summer dinner, where each dish harmonizes perfectly with the fresh flavors of the grill.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: This buttery delight is perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto, making every bite rich and satisfying.
- Caesar Salad: A classic choice, the creamy dressing and crunchy croutons contrast beautifully with the succulent shrimp.
- Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein and fiber, this nutty side can be customized with veggies, adding freshness and color to your plate.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers provide a smoky flavor and vibrant colors that complement the shrimp wonderfully.
- Lemon Orzo: Light and zesty, orzo tossed with lemon zest and herbs echoes the lemony notes of the pesto, creating a harmonious meal.
- Chilled White Wine: A refreshing Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the meal, cutting through the richness of the shrimp and lifting the flavors.
- Coconut Rice: Sweet and fragrant, it offers a delightful contrast to the savory, garlicky notes of the grilled shrimp.
- Tiramisu: For dessert, this creamy classic brings a touch of elegance, balancing the dining experience with its soft textures and coffee flavor.
- Herbed Yogurt Dip: A cool, tangy dip works wonders with the smoky shrimp, providing an exciting, flavorful contrast that will have everyone reaching for more!
Tips for the Best Pesto Grilled Shrimp
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Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh basil and garlic for the pesto—these are the stars of your dish. It dramatically enhances flavor and aroma.
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Don’t Over-marinate: While marinating shrimp enhances flavor, avoid marinating for more than a few hours; shrimp can become mushy.
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Skewering Tips: Make sure to leave a bit of space between shrimp on the skewers. This ensures even cooking and prevents them from sticking together.
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Watch the Grill: Grill shrimp until they are just opaque and lightly charred; overcooking makes them tough. Aim for those juicy bites of Pesto Grilled Shrimp!
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Serving Suggestions: Pair with a light salad or serve over pasta for a well-rounded meal. Don’t forget the lemon wedges for that final vibrant touch!
Pesto Grilled Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What kind of basil should I use for the pesto?
Absolutely! Fresh, sweet basil is ideal for making pesto. Look for vibrant leaves without any dark spots or wilting. The more fragrant, the better! You can also use alternatives like spinach or arugula if fresh basil isn’t available, but it might alter the flavor profile slightly.
How long can I store leftover Pesto Grilled Shrimp?
You can store any leftover Pesto Grilled Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure they remain juicy.
Can I freeze the marinated shrimp?
Very! If you have extra marinated shrimp, freeze them before cooking for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the shrimp and pesto in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight before grilling.
What if my shrimp is overcooked?
Oh no! If you find your shrimp has become rubbery, it’s usually due to overcooking. Keep an eye on them while grilling—2-3 minutes per side is sufficient. For better results next time, consider using a meat thermometer; shrimp are perfectly cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C).
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Indeed! If you or your guests have allergies, it’s essential to note that this recipe contains nuts from pine nuts and seafood from shrimp. If needed, try substituting the pine nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free pesto option. As for shrimp, feel free to use chicken or tofu for a different protein choice that’s equally delicious.
Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the pesto in advance, even a day or two ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To keep the vibrant green color, drizzle a bit of olive oil on top before sealing. When you’re ready to grill your shrimp, just stir the pesto before marinating. Enjoy!
Scrumptious Pesto Grilled Shrimp for Quick Summer Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pulse the basil, garlic, toasted pine nuts, grated parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender until smooth and creamy.
- Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl and coat them generously with the pesto. Cover and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving space between each for even cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred.
- Remove the shrimp from the grill, let them rest for a minute, then slide them off the skewers and serve immediately.