Grilled Lemon Shrimp with Pesto Couscous is a quick and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with aromatic pesto couscous. The bright citrus flavor of lemon enhances the tender shrimp, making it an enticing meal for any occasion. You’ll love how the combination of grilled shrimp and creamy pesto elevates your dining experience. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Lemon Shrimp with

There are countless reasons to enjoy this dish! First, it’s a healthy grilled lemon shrimp meal rich in protein. The zesty flavor from lemon not only enhances the shrimp but also adds a refreshing touch. You’ll appreciate that the grilled shrimp with lemon marinade is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. This easy grilled lemon shrimp recipe is also customizable—feel free to add your favorite veggies! Finally, the citrus flavor pairs perfectly with pasta or couscous, so you have great serving options.

Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Shrimp with

Gather these items:

2 pounds raw, deveined shrimp
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Cherry tomatoes (optional for skewering)
Fresh basil (for serving)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
2 cups cooked couscous
4 cups fresh basil
½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
⅓ cup toasted pine nuts
3 cloves garlic
½ to ¾ cup olive oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper

How to Make Grilled Lemon Shrimp with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the grill to the highest setting. Place the shrimp in a bowl. Mix olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour over shrimp, toss to coat, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2: Skewer the shrimp for easy handling on the grill. Add cherry tomatoes for color and flavor.
Step 3: Grill the shrimp skewers over the heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Flip and grill for another 1 to 2 minutes until opaque and pink. Transfer to a baking sheet to cool.
Step 4: Serve grilled shrimp over pesto couscous. Drizzle with extra pesto and spritz with lemon.
Step 5: Cook the couscous according to package instructions, about 15 minutes.
Step 6: Toast pine nuts in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes until golden.
Step 7: Prepare pesto by blending basil, cheese, pine nuts, and garlic until crumbly. Gradually add olive oil to desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper.
Step 8: Mix ¼ cup of the pesto into the couscous. Drizzle additional pesto over the top if desired.
Step 9: Plate couscous in a large dish, topped with shrimp skewers. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Pro Tips for the Best Grilled Lemon Shrimp with

Keep these in mind:

Choose high-quality shrimp for the best flavor.
Do not overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and should be just opaque.
For a spicier kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Always let the shrimp marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Grilled Lemon Shrimp with

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy couscous or alongside a fresh salad. You can also use it in tacos for a fun twist! Another option is to drizzle grilled shrimp with lemon butter sauce for added richness and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Grilled Lemon Shrimp with

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or grill briefly to regain some char. This makes for a quick meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Lemon Shrimp with

What’s the secret to perfect Grilled Lemon Shrimp with?

The key to perfect grilled lemon shrimp lies in marinating it adequately. Using a lemon garlic shrimp recipe with olive oil and fresh herbs enhances the flavor significantly.

Can I make Grilled Lemon Shrimp with ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance. Just grill them right before serving for the best taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Grilled Lemon Shrimp with?

Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough. Keep an eye on them while grilling, and remove them as soon as they’re opaque.

Variations of Grilled Lemon Shrimp with You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You can incorporate different marinades like a best grilled lemon shrimp marinade with herbs or even a spicy variation for those who love heat. Substitute couscous with quinoa for a different texture, or add seasonal vegetables to the skewers for extra flavor and nutrition. This dish is versatile and can easily adapt to your preferences!

Grilled Lemon Shrimp with Pesto Couscous for Flavorful Delight - Grilled Lemon Shrimp with - additional detail

For more tips on grilling shrimp, check out this grilling guide. If you’re looking for a delicious side, consider this couscous recipe that pairs perfectly. You can also explore healthy shrimp recipes for more inspiration.