Name: Pesto Grilled Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 21 min
Ingredients: Large shrimp (peeled and deveined); Basil pesto; Olive oil; Garlic (minced); Lemon juice; Salt and black pepper; Fresh basil leaves (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

I have to tell you, the Pesto Grilled Shrimp recipe is pure magic. A couple of weeks ago, I made it for a small backyard gathering, and it was a hit! The combination of juicy, grilled shrimp coated in the herby, garlicky goodness of basil pesto is such a treat.

Taking that first bite felt like a celebration of summer in my mouth. What I love the most about this recipe is that it’s incredibly simple, yet tastes so elegant, like something straight out of a fancy restaurant but made in my own kitchen.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a how-did-you-do-that appetizer to impress guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. Stick with me—I’ll walk you through every step so you can enjoy this delicious dish, too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe isn’t just about great taste; it’s packed with reasons to love it! Here’s why it’s worth trying:

Effortless to Make
You don’t need to be a cooking pro to nail this dish. With just a few simple steps, it’s quick and easy.
Bursting with Flavor
The basil pesto takes the shrimp to the next level with its fresh, herby flavor, complemented by a hint of garlic and lemon zest.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Be it a casual dinner or a special event, this dish fits the mood perfectly. It’s versatile and works as a main course, appetizer, or snack.
Dietary-Friendly
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can also be adapted for other dietary needs.
Customizable
The recipe is easy to tweak. You can swap out the pesto or mix up the seasoning if you’re feeling adventurous!

Cooking Time

Here’s how much time you’ll need to whip this up:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 21 minutes

Ingredients

You’ll need these key ingredients to bring this dish to life:

Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Basil pesto
Olive oil
Garlic (minced)
Lemon juice
Salt and black pepper
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Variations

Want to switch things up? No problem!

Use sun-dried tomato pesto for a slightly tangy twist.
Swap basil pesto for spinach or arugula pesto if you prefer a milder or unique flavor.
Make it dairy-free by choosing a pesto that doesn’t include Parmesan cheese.
Add a touch of heat with red pepper flakes or chili oil in the marinade.

Equipment You’ll Need:

Grill or grill pan – For those perfect char marks.
Skewers – Wooden or metal, to secure the shrimp.
Mixing bowl – To toss the shrimp with the marinade.
Basting brush – To coat the shrimp with the pesto.

How to Make Pesto Grilled Shrimp Recipe?

This recipe comes together in no time, but the results are unforgettable! Follow these simple steps.

Marinate the Shrimp 🍤

Start by tossing the shrimp in a mix of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure every piece is coated. Marinating for at least 15 minutes lets the flavors soak in and work their magic.

Prepare the Grill 🔥

While the shrimp marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 15 minutes to ensure they don’t burn. A well-prepped grill and skewers make all the difference!

Thread the Shrimp 🧵

Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, making sure they’re secure. This step helps with easy flipping and keeps your shrimp neatly arranged on the grill.

Grill and Baste 🧄

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Shrimp cook fast, so don’t blink! Baste the shrimp with any leftover marinade while grilling to lock in the flavors.

Brush with Pesto 🌿

Just before the shrimp are done, generously brush them with basil pesto. The pesto will warm up on the shrimp, releasing all its flavors. It’s the secret step to making every bite deliciously herby and fragrant.

Serve and Garnish 🌟

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and serve with lemon wedges. A quick squeeze of lemon on top? Heavenly!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t skip the marinade. Allowing the shrimp to soak in the mixture ensures they’re flavorful from the inside out.
Keep an eye on the shrimp. Overcooked shrimp can get rubbery quickly, so they just need to turn pink and opaque.
Use fresh ingredients. Fresh pesto and shrimp make all the difference in taste.

How to Serve Pesto Grilled Shrimp Recipe?

Presentation can turn a great dish into a wow-worthy one!

Serve the shrimp skewers on a platter and sprinkle with extra basil for contrast.
Pair them with sides like garlic bread, wild rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.
If serving as an appetizer, add a small bowl of pesto mixed with Greek yogurt as a dipping sauce.

The burst of flavors and complementing textures will make everyone come back for seconds!

Nutritional Information

This dish is both flavorful and light. Approximate values per serving include:

Calories: 200
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fat: 8g

Enjoy a guilt-free meal packed with nutrients!

Make Ahead and Storage

Got leftovers? Or want to prep ahead of time? Here’s what you need to know.

Storage Tips

Fully cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain that fresh-off-the-grill taste, reheat them on a grill pan instead of using a microwave.

If you have raw marinated shrimp, you can store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze the shrimp in the marinade. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.

The pesto, if homemade, can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight jar for up to a week in the fridge. That way, you’re always ready to whip up a fresh batch of Pesto Grilled Shrimp whenever the craving strikes!

With this guide, get ready to impress anyone with this incredible dish. It’s easy, fast, and utterly tasty! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🎉