Description

Pesto Shrimp and Zucchini Skewers are a vibrant and easy-to-make summer grilling recipe featuring juicy shrimp marinated in flavorful basil pesto paired with tender zucchini. Grilled until lightly charred, these skewers offer a perfect balance of fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic, making them an ideal high-protein dinner or appetizer that’s both gluten-free and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Marinade

½ cup basil pesto
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp black pepper

Main Ingredients

1½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 medium zucchini, sliced into thick half-moons
8 wooden or metal skewers

Optional Toppings and Garnish

2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil leaves
Lemon wedges

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Instructions

Prepare Skewers: If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
Make Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together basil pesto, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper until fully combined for a vibrant marinade.
Marinate Shrimp and Zucchini: Add peeled and deveined shrimp along with thick half-moon slices of zucchini to the marinade. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly, then let them marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Assemble Skewers: Thread the shrimp and zucchini onto the soaked wooden or metal skewers, alternating between the two to create colorful and balanced skewers.
Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Turn them carefully to ensure even cooking until shrimp are opaque and cooked through, and zucchini is tender with light grill marks.
Finish and Serve: Remove skewers from the grill, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if using, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Avoid marinating shrimp for longer than 15 minutes to prevent the lemon juice from affecting shrimp texture.
Slice zucchini thick enough to remain pleasantly firm while grilled and avoid becoming overly soft.
For added color and flavor, you can include cherry tomatoes or slices of red onion on the skewers.
Serve these skewers with sides like rice, quinoa, pasta salad, or crusty bread for a fuller meal.
Using store-bought pesto is a convenient shortcut for a quick weeknight dinner without compromising flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, Mediterranean