Keto Pesto Shrimp Skewers for Lunch: A Simple, Flavor-Packed Recipe

If you’re looking for a lunch that’s light, fresh, and full of flavor, these Keto Pesto Shrimp Skewers are exactly what you need. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and packed with protein and healthy fats—perfect for anyone following a keto diet or just wanting a low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

There’s something about grilled shrimp that makes any meal feel special. Add some homemade keto-friendly pesto, and you’ve got a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Plus, these skewers cook in minutes, making them a great option when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.

In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—how to make the best keto pesto, how to cook shrimp perfectly, and what to serve on the side. Let’s get into it.

Why You’ll Love These Keto Pesto Shrimp Skewers

• Quick & Easy – This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a busy lunch.
• Full of Healthy Fats – The pesto is made with olive oil and nuts, giving you a good dose of keto-friendly fats.
• Protein-Packed – Shrimp is one of the best lean protein sources, keeping you full without extra carbs.
• Customizable – You can swap ingredients, adjust flavors, and even make it dairy-free if needed.
• No Fancy Ingredients – Everything in this recipe is simple, fresh, and easy to find.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it basic. You don’t need anything fancy—just fresh, quality ingredients that bring big flavor.

For the Shrimp Skewers:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large work best)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a slight smoky flavor)
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

For the Keto Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
• ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts/almonds if preferred)
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Shrimp

Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better and gives a good sear when cooking.

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well until the shrimp are fully coated. Let them sit for about 5-10 minutes while you prepare the pesto.

2. Make the Keto Pesto

A blender or food processor makes this super easy. Just add basil, olive oil, Parmesan, nuts, garlic, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Pulse until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little more olive oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Assemble the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10-15 minutes to prevent burning.

Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each one so they cook evenly.

4. Cook the Shrimp

You can grill, pan-sear, or bake the skewers:

• Grill: Heat a grill to medium-high and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink.
• Pan-Sear: Heat a pan over medium heat with a little olive oil. Cook skewers for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. Coat with Pesto & Serve

Once cooked, brush or toss the shrimp skewers with the keto pesto. Serve immediately while warm.

What to Serve with Keto Pesto Shrimp Skewers

These skewers are great on their own, but if you want a full meal, try pairing them with:

• Zucchini Noodles – Tossed with extra pesto or olive oil.
• Cauliflower Rice – Light, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Grilled Veggies – Asparagus, bell peppers, or mushrooms add color and texture.
• Avocado Salad – A mix of avocado, cherry tomatoes, and fresh lemon juice.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Every Time

1. Don’t Overcook Them

Shrimp cook fast—like, really fast. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery, so keep an eye on them. Once they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape, they’re done.

2. Use Fresh Basil for the Best Pesto

Dried basil won’t cut it. Fresh basil gives the best flavor and color. If you want to switch things up, try adding a handful of spinach for extra greens.

3. Adjust the Pesto to Your Liking

If you like it creamier, add more Parmesan. If you like a brighter taste, add more lemon juice. If you want a nutty flavor, toast the pine nuts before blending.

4. Make it Dairy-Free

Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast instead. It adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

5. Meal Prep for Quick Lunches

These shrimp skewers store well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Keep them in an airtight container and reheat gently before eating.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a simple, tasty, and keto-friendly lunch, these Pesto Shrimp Skewers are a must-try. They’re loaded with fresh flavors, high in protein, and easy to whip up in no time. Whether you grill them, pan-sear them, or bake them, they’ll come out delicious every time.

Give them a try and let me know how they turn out! Happy cooking!

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