Peanut Free Basil-Lemon Shrimp Skewers
Bright, herby, and kissed with citrus, these grilled shrimp skewers are the kind of dish that disappears from the platter before you even sit down. The homemade pesto is built from fresh basil, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of turmeric and ginger — no pine nuts, no walnuts, no peanuts anywhere in sight. That makes it a genuinely safe and delicious option for anyone navigating nut allergies, since store-bought pestos can be a minefield of unexpected add-ins. The shrimp get a quick toss in olive oil and a few spoonfuls of that vibrant green sauce before hitting a hot grill, picking up gorgeous char in just a few minutes per side. Reserved pesto gets spooned generously over the finished skewers, so every bite is layered with bold, fresh flavor. Serve them straight off the grill with lemon wedges and extra basil, and you've got a crowd-pleasing centerpiece that's as clean and simple as it is impressive.
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!