Grilled Basil Shrimp
Juicy grilled shrimp marinated in a flavorful basil and lemon mixture, perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners with bold, fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whisk marinade ingredients in a large bowl until blended.
- Add shrimp and toss to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes, not more than 2 hours.
- Drain shrimp; reserve marinade for basting.
- Grill 4 to 6 inches above coals 2 to 3 minutes per side, basting once, until shrimp are pink and barely opaque in center.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, let the shrimp marinate for at least 1 hour. If you're out of white wine, you can substitute chicken broth or vegetable stock. Fresh basil is key, but if unavailable, try using a small amount of dried basil instead. Ensure your grill is hot before adding the shrimp to achieve nice char marks without overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
These grilled basil shrimp are perfect for a light summer meal and pair beautifully with Lemon Baked Fish or a refreshing salad. Serve over a bed of rice or alongside grilled vegetables for a well-rounded dish. Consider offering a dipping sauce, like a garlic aioli, to enhance the flavors. Browse more Mediterranean recipes to complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover grilled basil shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Basil Shrimp contains roughly 4476 calories, with 6g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 501g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (91% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely before marinating. Place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure the flavors absorb well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the marinade. You can also serve the grilled shrimp with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick. Adjust to your heat preference, keeping in mind the balance with the fresh basil.
What sides pair well with grilled basil shrimp?
Grilled basil shrimp pairs excellently with a light pasta salad, roasted vegetables, or a tangy coleslaw. You might also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any leftover marinade. For a complete meal, consider complementing it with a glass of chilled white wine.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).