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Pesto Grilled Shrimp: A Summery Delight for Your Grill

Summer is synonymous with sunshine, vibrant flavors, and sizzling grills. Among the many delights of grilling season, shrimp stands out as a favorite for its quick cooking time, juicy texture, and the way it effortlessly soaks up marinades. One recipe that brings together the essence of summer is Pesto Grilled Shrimp. This dish combines the fresh, herbaceous taste of basil pesto with the smoky, charred flavor of grilled shrimp, creating an unforgettable experience for your palate. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a romantic dinner, or simply indulging in a weekday treat, this recipe is a surefire way to impress.

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Pesto Grilled Shrimp: A Summery Delight for Your Grill

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🍤🌿 Pesto Grilled Shrimp is the ultimate summery treat! 🔥 Marinated in fresh, herby pesto and grilled to smoky perfection, this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or a light weeknight meal. One bite and you’ll be hooked! 😋

#GrilledShrimp 🍤 #PestoLove 🌿 #FlavorfulEats 🔥 #HealthyAndTasty 🌟 #SeafoodDelights 🐟 #EasyGrillRecipes 🍽️ #SummerVibes 🌞 #QuickAndFlavorful ⏱️ #FreshAndZesty 💚 #DinnerInMinutes 😍

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 40 minutes 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pesto:

  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed: The star ingredient, basil, brings a fragrant and slightly sweet flavor to the pesto.
  • 1 small clove of garlic: Adds a savory depth and a touch of heat.
  • 1 tablespoon pine nuts, toasted: These provide a nutty richness that complements the basil beautifully.
  • 2 tablespoons Parmigiano-Reggiano (parmesan), grated: Adds a savory umami note and a creamy texture to the pesto.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps create a smooth and luscious consistency.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about 1/4 of a lemon): Adds brightness and balances the richness of the pesto.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the flavors and brings the pesto together.

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and flavor. They cook evenly on the grill and hold the pesto well.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Basil Pesto

  1. Toast the Pine Nuts: Begin by toasting the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they turn golden brown and release their nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn them.
  2. Blend the Pesto: In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, garlic, toasted pine nuts, grated parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure an even texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

  1. Coat the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the prepared pesto over the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  2. Marinate: Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. For deeper flavor, you can marinate the shrimp for up to 8 hours.

Step 3: Skewer the Shrimp

  1. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
  2. Thread the Shrimp: Skewer the shrimp, leaving a small gap between each to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

  1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Place the skewered shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the grilled shrimp to a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve immediately while they’re still hot and juicy.

Notes

  • Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh basil leaves and high-quality shrimp. Frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Leave enough space between the skewers to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
  • Experiment with Proteins: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, this pesto marinade works beautifully with chicken, beef, or even firm tofu.
  • Author: Rosa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

In this article, we’ll explore every detail of this incredible dish. From its appeal and ingredients to step-by-step instructions, serving tips, and variations, you’ll have everything you need to bring this recipe to life. Let’s dive into the world of Pesto Grilled Shrimp and discover why it deserves a spot in your summer recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love Pesto Grilled Shrimp

Pesto Grilled Shrimp captures the essence of summer in every bite. The dish is not only visually stunning, with vibrant green pesto coating succulent shrimp, but it also offers a balance of flavors that will leave you craving more. Here’s what makes this recipe so appealing:

  • Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a short cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Bursting with Freshness: The basil pesto marinade infuses the shrimp with a bright, zesty flavor that’s enhanced by a hint of citrus from lemon juice.
  • Healthy and Light: Shrimp is a lean source of protein, and the pesto is made with wholesome ingredients like fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil.
  • Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal, or even add it to salads and pasta for a creative twist.

Now that we’ve whetted your appetite, let’s break down the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients for Pesto Grilled Shrimp

To create this dish, you’ll need a mix of simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pesto:

  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed: The star ingredient, basil, brings a fragrant and slightly sweet flavor to the pesto.
  • 1 small clove of garlic: Adds a savory depth and a touch of heat.
  • 1 tablespoon pine nuts, toasted: These provide a nutty richness that complements the basil beautifully.
  • 2 tablespoons Parmigiano-Reggiano (parmesan), grated: Adds a savory umami note and a creamy texture to the pesto.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps create a smooth and luscious consistency.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about 1/4 of a lemon): Adds brightness and balances the richness of the pesto.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the flavors and brings the pesto together.

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and flavor. They cook evenly on the grill and hold the pesto well.

Optional Garnish:

  • Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving enhances the dish with a citrusy zing.

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to bring the dish to life with a step-by-step guide.

How to Make Pesto Grilled Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Basil Pesto

  1. Toast the Pine Nuts: Begin by toasting the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they turn golden brown and release their nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn them.
  2. Blend the Pesto: In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, garlic, toasted pine nuts, grated parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure an even texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

  1. Coat the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the prepared pesto over the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  2. Marinate: Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. For deeper flavor, you can marinate the shrimp for up to 8 hours.

Step 3: Skewer the Shrimp

  1. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
  2. Thread the Shrimp: Skewer the shrimp, leaving a small gap between each to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

  1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Place the skewered shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the grilled shrimp to a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve immediately while they’re still hot and juicy.

Flavor Profile: What to Expect

The first bite of Pesto Grilled Shrimp delivers a burst of fresh, herby goodness from the basil pesto. The natural sweetness of the shrimp is enhanced by the charred, smoky notes from the grill, while the lemon juice adds a bright, tangy contrast. The texture is perfectly balanced, with tender, juicy shrimp enveloped in a velvety coating of pesto. Each element works harmoniously to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Tips for Perfect Pesto Grilled Shrimp

  • Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh basil leaves and high-quality shrimp. Frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Leave enough space between the skewers to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
  • Experiment with Proteins: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, this pesto marinade works beautifully with chicken, beef, or even firm tofu.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

  • Pesto Chicken or Beef Skewers: Swap the shrimp for bite-sized pieces of chicken breast or beef sirloin. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Pasta Toss: Remove the shrimp from the skewers and toss them with cooked pasta and additional pesto for a hearty meal.
  • Salad Topper: Serve the grilled shrimp over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a light and refreshing salad.
  • Grain Bowl: Pair the shrimp with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of pesto for a nourishing grain bowl.

Conclusion

Pesto Grilled Shrimp is more than just a dish—it’s an experience that encapsulates the joy of summer cooking. The simplicity of this recipe belies its depth of flavor, making it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game. The vibrant green basil pesto brings a fresh, aromatic quality that pairs beautifully with the tender, smoky shrimp, creating a dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. The combination of flavors—herby, nutty, zesty, and savory—will transport you to a Mediterranean-inspired culinary escape with every bite.

What’s even better about Pesto Grilled Shrimp is its versatility. Whether served as an elegant appetizer, the star of a main course, or a fun addition to salads and pasta, this recipe adapts effortlessly to any occasion. It’s perfect for casual family dinners, alfresco dining, or even as a show-stopping centerpiece for summer gatherings with friends. The minimal prep and quick cooking time mean you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunshine and good company.

For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, this dish is a great starting point for creativity. You can explore different proteins, play around with additional ingredients in the pesto, or pair the shrimp with a variety of side dishes to create a meal that’s uniquely yours. It’s also a great recipe for introducing kids or new cooks to the joys of grilling, as the process is simple, fun, and rewarding.

If you’ve been searching for a recipe that combines ease, elegance, and exceptional flavor, look no further than Pesto Grilled Shrimp. Its vibrant, summery appeal will make it a hit at your table time and time again. So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and let this dish become a beloved part of your summer culinary tradition. Enjoy every flavorful, smoky, and herbaceous bite—and don’t forget to share it with those you love. Food, after all, is best when shared. Happy grilling!

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