Are you ready to take your grilling game to the next level? This pesto grilled shrimp recipe is a vibrant, flavorful dish that will be the star of your summer barbecues. The shrimp are marinated in a zesty pesto blend that infuses them with a burst of herbaceous flavor, making every bite a delight. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – just a few ingredients and a quick grilling time transform succulent shrimp into a delicious meal. Serve it over a bed of pasta or alongside fresh veggies, and you have a dish that is not only tasty but visually appealing too.

Vibrant Presentation

The grilled shrimp coated in vibrant green pesto serve not only as a delicious meal but also as a feast for the eyes. Arranged neatly on a pristine white platter, the shrimp create an enticing visual contrast against the lively basil and bright lemon wedges.

This striking arrangement makes it perfect for summer gatherings, where the aesthetic appeal of the dish enhances the overall dining experience. The rustic wooden table in the background adds a homey touch, making it an inviting setting for friends and family.

Simple Yet Flavorful Ingredients

At the heart of the pesto grilled shrimp recipe lies a handful of simple yet impactful ingredients. The star of the show, the shrimp, are marinated in a zesty basil pesto that infuses them with delightful herbaceous notes.

Complemented by olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and seasoning, the marinade elevates the shrimp’s flavor profile while keeping the preparation straightforward. Fresh basil leaves not only enhance the taste but also serve as a beautiful garnish, tying the dish together visually.

Quick Preparation for Busy Days

One of the highlights of this dish is its quick preparation time. From marinating the shrimp to grilling, the entire process takes around 20 minutes. This makes the pesto grilled shrimp recipe an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings with friends.

The ease of preparation ensures that you can focus on enjoying the company of your guests rather than spending hours in the kitchen. With just 15 minutes for marination and another 5 for grilling, serving a delicious meal has never been more convenient.

Grilling Perfection

Grilling the shrimp adds a layer of smokiness that perfectly complements the fresh flavors of the pesto. Preheating the grill is crucial to achieving those desirable charred marks while ensuring the shrimp cook evenly.

Skewering the shrimp not only makes them easier to handle but also allows for a beautiful presentation. A quick cook time of just 2-3 minutes on each side transforms the shrimp into a succulent delight, making them a crowd-pleaser at any summer gathering.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, the options are plentiful. The grilled shrimp can be enjoyed on their own, or paired with a variety of accompaniments like a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or a light pasta.

The lemon wedges add a refreshing zing, making each bite even more delightful. For a more festive touch, consider serving the dish family-style, allowing guests to help themselves and create their own ideal combinations.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special celebration, this pesto grilled shrimp recipe fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors make it a standout choice, guaranteed to impress.

Not only does this dish satisfy cravings, but it also invites conversation and connection among family and friends. The lively atmosphere it creates is just as important as the delicious flavors, making it a memorable addition to your summer meal repertoire.

Delicious Pesto Grilled Shrimp Recipe

Grilled shrimp marinated in pesto on a white platter with lemon wedges and basil.

This pesto grilled shrimp recipe features juicy shrimp marinated in a fragrant pesto sauce, grilled to perfection, and served with a hint of lemon. The taste is a delightful combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and a slight smokiness from the grill.

It’s an easy, quick meal that packs a punch of flavor and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup basil pesto
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges for serving
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine the basil pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Marinate Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Skewer Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling.
Grill Shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred.
Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh basil, and serve with lemon wedges.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition Information

Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 220 kcal
Fat: 12g
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 2g