This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is the perfect combination of light, fresh vegetables and succulent shrimp, all coated in a tangy and creamy dressing. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s ideal for a quick lunch, a side salad for dinner, or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties. With its crisp cucumbers, savory shrimp, and a hint of fresh dill and lemon, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing mixture over the shrimp and vegetables. Toss everything together to coat evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Add Avocado: For extra creaminess and richness, you can add diced avocado to the salad.
- Use Greek Yogurt: Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to create a lighter version of the dressing with a tangier flavor.
- Add More Veggies: You can add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or celery to increase the crunch and flavor variety.
- Spicy Option: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the dressing.
- Use Other Seafood: While shrimp is the main protein in this dish, you can substitute it with other seafood like crab, lobster, or even scallops for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best eaten fresh, but it can be kept for a short time due to the mayonnaise dressing.
- Reheating: This salad is best served chilled and should not be reheated, as the fresh and crisp ingredients like cucumber and shrimp are meant to stay cool and refreshing.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly before using them in the salad. - Can I use low-fat mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use a low-fat or light mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter version of the salad. - How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?
If you are using pre-cooked shrimp, they will already be pink and opaque. If you are cooking the shrimp yourself, cook until they turn pink and firm up (about 2-3 minutes per side). - Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. The flavors will intensify as it sits. - Can I substitute the mayonnaise with something else?
Yes, you can use sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even a vinaigrette for a different flavor profile. - What’s the best way to slice cucumbers for this salad?
Thinly slicing the cucumbers allows them to absorb the dressing and add a nice crunch to the salad. - Can I add fruit to this salad?
For a sweet twist, you could add fruit like diced mango, pineapple, or apple for a fresh contrast to the savory shrimp and cucumber. - How do I store leftover shrimp salad?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best consumed sooner rather than later. - Can I use pre-cooked shrimp from the store?
Yes, pre-cooked shrimp work perfectly in this salad. Just be sure to peel and devein them if not already done. - Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad can be a great addition to your meal prep for the week. Just store it in individual containers and enjoy it as a quick and easy lunch.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a light, flavorful dish that can be prepared in no time and is perfect for a refreshing meal or side dish. With its combination of crisp vegetables, tender shrimp, and a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s a sure crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it as a simple lunch or serve it at your next gathering, this salad is a delightful and easy option that everyone will love. Enjoy the fresh and satisfying taste in every bite!