Name: Pesto Grilled Shrimp: A Summery Delight for Your Grill
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 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.; 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.

Ingredients

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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.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Basil Pesto

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.
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

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.
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

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

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
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