As the sun begins to set and the grill warms up, there’s a certain excitement in the air—a promise of flavor that can only come from well-seasoned shrimp kissed by the smoky essence of the grill. Picture this: a bowl of succulent shrimp, glistening with aromatic pesto and zesty lemon juice, marinating in anticipation of that perfect sizzle.
I stumbled upon this delightful dish on a warm summer evening, when the thought of fast food seemed almost sacrilegious. Instead, I wanted something that celebrated the freshness of the season—something vibrant and satisfying without demanding hours in the kitchen. Enter my Pesto Grilled Shrimp.
This recipe is a breeze to whip up, taking only 21 minutes from start to finish, and it’s sure to impress not just your taste buds but also anyone gathered around your table. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, this dish promises to be the highlight of your weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings alike. Let’s fire up that grill and dive into this deliciousness!
Why You'll Love This Pesto Grilled Shrimp
- This Pesto Grilled Shrimp is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The burst of flavor from the aromatic pesto and zesty lemon juice will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.
- Not only is this dish quick to make, but it also looks stunning on the plate, making it perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering.
- It's versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a main course, delighting everyone from seafood lovers to casual eaters alike.
Pesto Grilled Shrimp Ingredients
• Elevate your grilling game with this simple yet scrumptious recipe!
For the Shrimp
• 1 lb shrimp – peeled and deveined shrimp offer a tender, juicy bite that absorbs the flavors beautifully.
For the Marinade
• ½ cup pesto sauce – homemade or store-bought, pesto adds a burst of herbal deliciousness.
• 2 tablespoon lemon juice – freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the pesto.
• 2 tablespoon olive oil – extra virgin olive oil enhances the taste while keeping the shrimp moist on the grill.
• ½ teaspoon salt – a pinch of salt helps to accentuate all the lovely flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of warmth and spice to the marinade.
How to Make Pesto Grilled Shrimp
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This should take about 10-15 minutes, allowing your grill to reach that ideal temperature for perfectly cooked shrimp.
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Combine shrimp, pesto sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix them well, ensuring every shrimp is coated with the vibrant marinade for maximum flavor.
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Marinate the shrimp for 15 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a delightful taste when grilled.
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Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them. This ensures even cooking and gives you those gorgeous grill marks.
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Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque, which indicates they’re perfectly cooked and ready to be savored.
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Serve immediately! Once off the grill, enjoy your Pesto Grilled Shrimp with extra pesto on the side for a delightful finishing touch.
Optional: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a colorful platter.
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. This will help maintain its flavor and freshness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the shrimp, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through, or you can microwave them in short intervals. Add a splash of olive oil to keep them moist.
Serving Tip: For best results, consider freshening up the flavor with a drizzle of pesto or a squeeze of lemon juice when serving leftovers!
Make Ahead Options
These Pesto Grilled Shrimp are perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to soak in all that delicious pesto and lemon flavor. Simply combine the shrimp, pesto sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to grill. For optimal taste and texture, remember to refrigerate them in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When it’s time to cook, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers and grill for just 2-3 minutes on each side. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Pesto Grilled Shrimp with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a breeze!
Pesto Grilled Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own by trying out these delightful twists!
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Lemon Garlic: Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the marinade for a robust boost of flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully. The aromatic garlic perfectly enhances the zesty lemon, making each bite even more delightful.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the marinade for a spicy version. Those who enjoy a bit of heat will love this variation, as the warmth elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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Herb-Infused: Swap in a homemade herb pesto made with parsley or cilantro for a fresh twist. This variation will not only brighten the dish but also offer a completely different flavor experience, perfect for herb lovers.
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Creamy Addition: Mix in ¼ cup of Greek yogurt or sour cream into the pesto for a creamy marinade. This twist adds a rich texture and extra tanginess that pairs wonderfully with grilled shrimp.
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Coconut-Lime: Replace lemon juice with coconut milk and lime juice for a tropical vibe. This variation brings a unique sweetness and acidity that transports you to an island paradise with every delicious bite.
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Veggie Skewers: Thread bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini alongside the shrimp on the skewers for added color and nutrients. Grilling these veggies together enhances the overall flavor while making the dish heartier and more visually appealing.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the marinade for a subtle smoky flavor. This will take the dish to another level, giving each bite a delightful depth that pairs perfectly with the summery notes of the pesto.
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Quinoa Salad: Serve the grilled shrimp on a bed of quinoa mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette. This creates a refreshing meal that showcases the shrimp while rounding out the dish for a fulfilling experience.
What to Serve with Pesto Grilled Shrimp?
As you savor your grilled shrimp bursting with vibrant flavors, consider these delightful pairings to create a well-rounded meal.
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Zesty Couscous: A light and fluffy side that adds a hint of lemon, perfectly balancing the richness of the shrimp.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender, charred spears bring a smoky element that complements the fresh herbs in the pesto.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy bread brushed with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any extra pesto sauce.
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Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil create a refreshing burst of flavors alongside the shrimp.
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Lemon Rice: Fragrant rice with a zesty kick enhances the lemon notes in the shrimp while providing a comforting base.
For a touch of sweetness, consider pairing with Lemon Sorbet for dessert. Its light, refreshing nature cleanses the palate after the savory meal. Each pairing enhances your Pesto Grilled Shrimp experience, making your dinner truly memorable!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Pesto Grilled Shrimp, always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- A common mistake is to overcrowd the skewers; this prevents even cooking and searing.
- Marinating the shrimp for a full 15 minutes allows them to soak up all the delicious flavors, so don't skip this step.
- Ensure your grill is heated to medium-high, as this temperature cooks the shrimp quickly without drying them out.
Pesto Grilled Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp?
Absolutely! When buying shrimp, look for those that are firm and have a mild ocean smell. The shells should be shiny and clean with minimal dark spots. Fresh shrimp will be translucent and plump, so be cautious of any that appear dry or have a strong odor.
How long can I store leftover Pesto Grilled Shrimp?
Very! Store your leftover Pesto Grilled Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain its delicious flavor and texture, make sure to consume it within this period. If it has a strong fishy smell or looks slimy, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Can I freeze Pesto Grilled Shrimp, and how?
Certainly! To freeze your Pesto Grilled Shrimp, place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
What should I do if my shrimp are slightly overcooked?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your shrimp turn out a bit overcooked and are chewy, consider marinating them in a little olive oil or a splash of lemon juice to help rehydrate them. You can also chop them and mix them into a salad or pasta dish where the textures can harmoniously blend.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! While shrimp is a delicious protein option, it's important to note that some people have shellfish allergies. Always check with your guests or family members before serving Pesto Grilled Shrimp. If you know someone is allergic, consider making a fish or chicken version with the same pesto marinade for inclusive dining.
Pesto Grilled Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
- Combine shrimp, pesto sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix them well.
- Marinate the shrimp for 15 minutes.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, ensuring not to overcrowd them.
- Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turns pink and opaque.
- Serve immediately with extra pesto on the side.
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