Anti Inflammatory Basil-Lemon Shrimp Skewers
Bright, garlicky, and kissed with citrus, these shrimp skewers are the kind of dish that feels like a treat while quietly doing your body a favor. The homemade basil pesto is built around extra-virgin olive oil and fresh herbs — both well-regarded for their role in a diet focused on reducing inflammation — and the addition of turmeric and ginger takes things a step further without overpowering the fresh, summery flavor. Shrimp cook fast over high heat, which means you get beautifully charred, juicy bites in just a few minutes per side. The reserved pesto spooned generously over the finished skewers is the move that makes this dish feel restaurant-worthy rather than weeknight-simple. Lemon zest and fresh lemon juice run through both the pesto and the serving plate, keeping every bite lively and clean. This is the kind of recipe that proves eating with your health in mind doesn't mean sacrificing anything on the flavor front.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the pesto
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ⅛ tsp ground ginger
For the skewers
- 1 ½ lb large shrimp (21–25 count), peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
For serving
- lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- fresh basil leaves, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
If using wooden skewers, submerge them in water for at least 20 minutes so they don't char on the grill.
- 2
Combine the basil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, turmeric, and ginger in a blender or food processor. Pulse several times until the herbs are roughly broken down. With the motor running, stream in the 1/2 cup olive oil and blend until the pesto is smooth and bright green, about 30 seconds. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!