Grilled Pesto Shrimp (30 Minutes)

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This recipe features succulent shrimp marinated in a homemade pesto sauce, then threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. The pesto adds a fresh and herby flavor to the shrimp, while the grilling process imparts a smoky char that enhances the overall taste.

These skewers are great for a light meal or paired with rice or pasta for a heartier dish. They’re easy to prepare and always a hit with seafood lovers!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Pesto Marinade:

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon

For the Shrimp Skewers:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on)
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

  1. Make Pesto Marinade (10 minutes): In a food processor, blend basil leaves, olive oil, pine nuts or walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Marinate Shrimp (30 minutes to 1 hour): Place the shrimp in a large bowl. Pour the pesto marinade over the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  3. Prepare Skewers (5 minutes): If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers.
  4. Preheat Grill (10 minutes): Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  5. Grill Shrimp (6-8 minutes): Grill the shrimp skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and slightly charred.
  6. Serve (2 minutes): Remove the shrimp from the grill and serve immediately. Optional: garnish with lemon wedges or additional fresh basil.

Notes

Be sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the pesto. The key to a great marinade is balancing the flavors of basil, garlic, and lemon. Don’t over-marinate the shrimp, as the lemon juice can start to cook them.

Ensure your grill is hot enough so that the shrimp get a nice sear without overcooking. These skewers are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides like salads, grilled vegetables, or over pasta. They’re perfect for a family barbecue or an elegant dinner. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/grilled-pesto-shrimp-30-minutes/