PARTNER POST: Dive into the 120 days of summer with Santa Rita wines that pair perfectly with the foods of the season, straight off the grill.
Spruce up your traditional shrimp scampi with fresh herbs and a grilled preparation. Serve with a crisp white wine and we are in summer seafood heaven.
You may think of pasta tossed with garlicky shrimp and butter when someone says shrimp scampi, but there are many variations of this dish. Apparently Italian immigrants to the states developed scampi by utilizing Italian techniques to cook American food. I was relieved that adding grainy mustard and basil wouldn’t necessarily butcher a purest’s interpretation of scampi nor would grilling it.
Besides all the layers of flavors from the marinade, the grilling process imparted another marvelous nuance. Of course, a gas grill is much easier to control, so feel free to use whatever method you have available. But if you are a shrimp lover, you must make this extraordinary grilled shrimp scampi! 
A crisp glass of white wine is perfect on a sultry summer’s evening. I was lucky enough to be given two delightful best-selling Chilean varietals from Santa Rita. One was their lovely Sauvignon Blanc, with the citrus flavors of lemon peel and grapefruit that I find so irresistible. With the perfect acidity, the subtle fruit flavors also include a hint of peach and are rounded out with herbaceous undertones. The Santa Rita 120 Sauvignon Blanc paired deliciously with our grilled shrimp and would also be marvelous as an aperitif with appetizers or served with other seafood. The Santa Rita 120 Hero’s Salute Red Blend is a gorgeous ruby-red color with flavors of blueberry, plum and Cassis along with notes of spice, vanilla, coffee and tobacco imparted by the oak barrel aging. Pairing suggestions include pasta with meat sauces, grilled or stewed red meats, pork, and cheese. Both these stellar Santa Rita 120 wines are an exceptional value and the perfect addition to your summer grilling menu. Make sure you pick up a bottle or two when grabbing some shrimp for the BBQ!
For more grilling inspiration with Santa Rita, check out this grilled Chilean chicken and pebre sauce.
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Zesty Lemon and Basil Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These vibrant shrimp skewers are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, fresh basil, garlic, and a hint of spice before being grilled to perfection. A quick and elegant main for any summer gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- 3 tablespoons (44ml) butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice
- Zest of half a lemon
- 1 1/2 tablespoons (22ml) grainy mustard
- 1/4 cup (59ml) minced basil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.2ml) crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.2ml) complete seasoning mix
- 2 pounds (0.91kg) jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Instructions
- In a shallow glass dish, mix together 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, 3 tablespoons (44 ml) melted butter, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, 1½ tablespoons (22 ml) grainy mustard, ¼ cup (59 ml) minced basil, 2 minced garlic cloves, ¼ teaspoon (1.2 ml) crushed red pepper flakes, and ¼ teaspoon (1.2 ml) complete seasoning mix. Add 2 pounds (0.91 kg) jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined) and stir until coated with the paste.
- Place the shrimp in the refrigerator to marinate for about an hour.
- Prepare the grill for cooking.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers.
- Gently microwave any remaining marinade left in the dish and brush it over the skewered shrimp.
- Grill the shrimp for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until they are just starting to turn pink (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
- Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of grill is best for making grilled lemon and herb shrimp?
A gas grill is recommended as it is easier to control, but you can use any grilling method you have available.
What fresh herbs work best in the marinade for the shrimp?
Basil is a great option, but you can experiment with other fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.
How should I serve the grilled shrimp for the best pairing?
Serve the grilled shrimp with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the citrus and herb flavors.
