Name: Grilled Lemon Shrimp with Pesto Couscous Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 pounds raw, deveined jumbo shrimp; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; Cherry tomatoes, for skewering; Fresh basil, for serving; Lemon wedges, for spritzing; 4 cups fresh basil; 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts; 3 garlic cloves; 1/2 to 3/4 cup olive oil; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper; 2 cups cooked couscous

Imagine biting into perfectly grilled, zesty shrimp paired with fragrant pesto-infused couscous. This Grilled Lemon Shrimp with Pesto Couscous is a delightful summer dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressive enough for weekend entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon-infused shrimp and aromatic pesto couscous creates a taste sensation that will transport you to a sunny coastal town.
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile: It’s perfect for a casual family dinner, yet elegant enough for a dinner party. Plus, it’s great for outdoor grilling or can be easily adapted for indoor cooking.
Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with lean protein from the shrimp and wholesome carbs from the couscous, this meal is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp work best here. They’re the star of the show, so get the freshest you can find.
Olive Oil: Used in both the marinade and pesto. It brings everything together with its rich, smooth flavor.
Lemon: Zest for the marinade and wedges for serving. It adds a bright, citrusy kick that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Garlic: A must-have for both the shrimp and pesto. It infuses the dish with its aromatic essence.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a gentle heat. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Cherry Tomatoes: Optional for skewering. They add a pop of color and freshness.
Basil: The key ingredient in the pesto. Fresh is best for that authentic Italian flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami depth to the pesto.
Pine Nuts: Toasted for the pesto. They bring a subtle nutty flavor and creamy texture.
Couscous: The perfect base for soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Protein Switch: Try this recipe with chicken or even firm white fish like cod or halibut.
Grain Alternatives: Swap couscous for quinoa or orzo for a different texture.
Veggie Boost: Add grilled zucchini or bell peppers to the skewers for extra nutrition and color.
Dairy-Free Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan in the pesto for a vegan-friendly version.

How to Make Grilled Lemon Shrimp with Pesto Couscous

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Combine olive oil, lemon zest, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Toss with shrimp and let marinate while preheating the grill.

Step 2: Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, blend basil, Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and garlic. Stream in olive oil until you reach desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Couscous

Prepare couscous according to package instructions. Once cooked, stir in a portion of the pesto.

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

Skewer the marinated shrimp and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Plate the pesto couscous, top with grilled shrimp, and garnish with fresh basil and lemon wedges.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
Pesto Perfection: Make extra pesto and freeze in ice cube trays for future use.
Even Cooking: Ensure shrimp are similar in size for consistent grilling.
Skewer Safely: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

How to Serve

This dish is a meal in itself, but if you’re looking to round it out:

Side Dishes:

Serve with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables.

Bread:

A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra pesto.

Drink Pairing:

A chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemony shrimp beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store shrimp and couscous separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing:

The pesto can be frozen for up to 3 months. Shrimp and couscous are best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating:

Gently reheat shrimp in a skillet with a splash of water. Microwave couscous, adding a little water if needed to refresh.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Absolutely! You can cook the shrimp in a hot skillet or under the broiler for similar results.

Is there a substitute for pine nuts in the pesto?
Yes, walnuts or almonds make great alternatives and are often more budget-friendly.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
While fresh is best, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Just toss them in the marinade and heat through on the grill for about 1 minute per side.

How can I tell when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and curl into a loose “C” shape. If they’re tightly curled, they may be overcooked.

This Grilled Lemon Shrimp with Pesto Couscous is a celebration of summer flavors that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for entertaining. The bright lemon, aromatic pesto, and perfectly grilled shrimp create a harmony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table tonight!

Evelyn

Hey, I'm Evelyn! I'm a home cook with a passion for fun, real recipes that make my kitchen my happy place. Dive in and share the flavor of my everyday foodie adventures!

Grilled Lemon Shrimp with Pesto Couscous Recipe