Grilled Pesto Shrimp on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction:

Grilled pesto shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh, garlicky pesto and perfectly seared shrimp creates a deliciously light yet satisfying meal. With the Arteflame grill, you can achieve an even sear on the shrimp without overcooking, locking in all the juicy flavors. This easy, Mediterranean-inspired dish can be served on its own, over pasta, or alongside grilled veggies for a fresh and healthy meal.

Ingredients:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
1/3 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges (for serving)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)

Optional Sides:

Grilled asparagus
Grilled bread slices (brushed with olive oil)

Instructions:

1. Fire Up the Arteflame Grill:

Start by preparing your Arteflame grill. Soak three paper napkins in vegetable oil, place them in the grill, and stack firewood on top. Light the grill and allow it to heat up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is ready for grilling.

2. Prepare the Shrimp:

In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let the shrimp marinate for 10 minutes while the grill heats up.

3. Grill the Shrimp:

Place the shrimp on the outer edge of the Arteflame flat cooktop, where the heat is slightly lower than the center. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, with a light char on the outside. Be careful not to overcook them.

4. Toss in Pesto:

Once the shrimp are cooked, immediately toss them in the fresh basil pesto while they are still warm. Coat them evenly for maximum flavor.

5. Serve:

Serve the pesto shrimp hot, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness. For a complete meal, pair with grilled asparagus or grilled bread slices brushed with olive oil.

Tips:

Grill quickly: Shrimp cook fast, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Use fresh pesto: If possible, make your own pesto with fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, and pine nuts for a richer flavor.
Lemon boost: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds brightness and balances the flavors.

Variations:

Spicy Pesto Shrimp: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy kick.
Citrus Pesto Shrimp: Mix lemon zest into the pesto for an extra citrusy flavor.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Swap pesto for a garlic butter sauce, adding minced garlic and parsley to melted butter.
Pesto Shrimp Skewers: Skewer the shrimp before grilling for easier flipping and a fun presentation.
Pesto Shrimp Tacos: Serve the grilled shrimp in soft tortillas with avocado, fresh tomatoes, and a drizzle of lime crema.

Best Pairings:

Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the shrimp perfectly.
Pasta: Toss the pesto shrimp with pasta for a heartier meal.
Couscous: Serve the shrimp over fluffy couscous with fresh herbs.
White Wine: Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a refreshing combination.