Elevate your grilling game with this delicious and vibrant Pesto Grilled Shrimp recipe. Juicy shrimp are marinated in fragrant basil pesto and grilled to perfection, resulting in a dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavor. Perfect for outdoor barbecues, light dinners, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is a quick and easy way to impress your family and guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Additional pesto for serving
Equipment:
- Grill or grill pan
- Skewers (if using a grill)
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Basting brush
Instructions:
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, basil pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Let the shrimp marinate for 15-20 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Shrimp:
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers (if using) for easier handling.
- Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the grilled shrimp to a serving platter. Optionally, drizzle with additional pesto for extra flavor.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges, a fresh salad, or over pasta.
Tips:
- For added texture and flavor, grill some cherry tomatoes or zucchini alongside the shrimp.
- Adjust the pesto to your preference by using different herbs like cilantro or parsley.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the shrimp in a skillet over medium-high heat.
This Pesto Grilled Shrimp recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and bold flavors. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or part of a larger meal, these shrimp are sure to delight everyone at the table. Try this recipe for your next summer gathering and watch it become a new favorite!

Pesto Grilled Shrimp – A Flavor-Packed Summer Delight
Fire up the grill for this quick and easy Pesto Grilled Shrimp recipe. Juicy shrimp coated in basil pesto make the perfect summer meal or appetizer!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, basil pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Let the shrimp marinate for 15-20 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Shrimp:
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers (if using) for easier handling.
- Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the grilled shrimp to a serving platter. Optionally, drizzle with additional pesto for extra flavor.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges, a fresh salad, or over pasta.
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