Shrimp with Pesto

Why Make This Recipe

Shrimp with Pesto is a simple yet delicious dish that is quick to prepare. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout. The combination of fresh shrimp and vibrant pesto creates a flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, this recipe uses just a few ingredients, making it easy for cooks of all levels.

How to Make Shrimp with Pesto

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine shrimp with pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure each shrimp is coated.
3. Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

How to Serve Shrimp with Pesto

Shrimp with Pesto can be served as an appetizer or a main dish. You can place the skewers directly on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or extra lemon wedges. Pair it with a side salad, rice, or pasta to complete the meal.

How to Store Shrimp with Pesto

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

Tips to Make Shrimp with Pesto

• For extra flavor, let the shrimp marinate in the pesto for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers. This helps the shrimp cook evenly.
• If you like a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes to the pesto mixture.

Variation

You can switch out the shrimp for chicken or fish if desired. These proteins pair well with pesto and can be cooked in a similar manner. For a vegetarian option, try grilling vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers with the same pesto sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto is a great time-saver. Just make sure to choose one with good flavor.

2. How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?
Cooked shrimp turns pink and opaque. It usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side on the grill.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and marinate them in the pesto in advance. Just grill them when you’re ready to serve!

Shrimp with Pesto

Shrimp with Pesto is a simple yet delicious dish that combines fresh shrimp and vibrant pesto, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend cookouts.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 16 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce Store-bought pesto can be used for convenience.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• to taste Salt and pepper Use fresh ground for the best flavor.
• as needed Lemon wedges for serving Pairs well with the shrimp.

Method

 

Preparation and Grilling

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine shrimp with pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure each shrimp is coated.
3. Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the shrimp marinate in the pesto for 30 minutes before grilling. Don’t overcrowd the skewers to help the shrimp cook evenly. For a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes to the pesto mixture. You can also switch out the shrimp for chicken or fish for variation.