Pesto Grilled Shrimp is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines succulent shrimp with vibrant pesto sauce. Perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight meal, this dish can be served as an appetizer, over pasta, or in a salad. The fresh basil and garlic in the pesto enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a delightful flavor combination.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Pesto Grilled Shrimp takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 5-7 minutes for grilling.

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for more flavor).

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

1. Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
2. Grill: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate and Garnish: Remove the shrimp from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges.
2. Enjoy: Enjoy the pesto grilled shrimp on their own, over pasta, or in a salad.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Pesto Grilled Shrimp (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	220
Protein	25g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	3g
Sugar	1g

Tips for Customization

• Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Different Proteins: Substitute shrimp with chicken or fish for a different twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Pesto Grilled Shrimp is a quick and delicious dish that highlights the fresh flavors of basil and garlic. Perfect for grilling season or any time you crave something light and flavorful, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!