Name: Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds shrimp, with shells removed and deveined (Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture.); 1 medium English cucumber, diced into small pieces; 3 medium green onions, sliced thinly; ⅓ cup mayonnaise; ⅓ cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.); 1 large lime, zested and juiced ((approximately 2 teaspoons of zest and 2 tablespoons of juice)); 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (Can substitute with parsley or cilantro.); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Cucumber shrimp salad is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm days. With tender shrimp and crispy cucumbers, it’s a delightful combination of textures. It’s easy to prepare and makes a great addition to picnics, barbecues, or even a light lunch at home. Your family will love the creamy dressing and fresh flavors.

Why You Will Love This Cucumber Shrimp Salad

This cucumber shrimp salad is not just delicious; it’s also super easy to whip up. You can make it in about 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy days. It uses simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen, making it family-friendly and budget-friendly. It’s a satisfying option that everyone will enjoy, whether it’s a casual meal or a special occasion.

How to Make Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Making this cucumber shrimp salad is straightforward. You start by cooking the shrimp and preparing the fresh veggies. Then, you’ll mix everything with a zesty dressing for a burst of flavor. The key is to let it chill in the fridge for a bit, allowing the flavors to mingle and deepen, creating a tasty meal.

What You Need

To make cucumber shrimp salad, you will need the following ingredients:

2 pounds of shrimp, with shells removed and deveined
1 English cucumber, diced into small pieces
3 green onions, sliced thinly
⅓ cup of mayonnaise
⅓ cup of sour cream
1 large lime, both zested and juiced (approximately 2 teaspoons of zest and 2 tablespoons of juice)
2 tablespoons of fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
1 clove of garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon of kosher salt

Step-by-Step

Here’s how to make cucumber shrimp salad:

Clean, devein, and quickly boil the shrimp until they turn pink. Rinse under cold water.
Dice the cucumber into small pieces for a crisp texture.
Whisk together the mayo, sour cream, lime zest and juice, dill, mustard, garlic, and salt until smooth.
In a bowl, combine the shrimp, cucumbers, and dressing; gently toss everything together.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

How to Serve Cucumber Shrimp Salad

This salad is great on its own or served with a side of crusty bread or crackers. You can also enjoy it with a simple green salad to make it a complete meal. If you’re hosting a gathering, it makes a lovely appetizer or side dish. Pair it with lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing summer meal.

How to Store Cucumber Shrimp Salad

To keep your leftovers fresh, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be eaten within 2 days. Unfortunately, this salad is not ideal for freezing due to the textures of the shrimp and cucumbers. When ready to serve, just give it a gentle stir.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture.
Adjust the dressing ingredients according to your preference.
Make sure to chill the salad—this really enhances the flavors.
If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking.
Feel free to add diced avocado for extra creaminess.

Variations & Swaps

Substitute the shrimp with shredded chicken or canned tuna for a different protein.
Swap out the dill for parsley or cilantro for a new flavor twist.
Add diced bell peppers for an extra crunch and color.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours ahead of serving. Just store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. However, if you plan to make it a day in advance, consider adding the cucumbers closer to serving time to keep them crispy.

Can I freeze cucumber shrimp salad?
It’s best not to freeze this salad. The texture of shrimp can change when frozen, and cucumbers become watery when thawed. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste and quality.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover shrimp?
If you have leftover shrimp salad and want to make it warm, gently heat the shrimp on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid overcooking. However, it’s typically enjoyed cold.

Can I substitute ingredients in the salad?
Absolutely! You can swap shrimp with shredded rotisserie chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can adjust the dressing to include Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.

What are some good sides to serve with this salad?
Serve it with a light side like a garden salad, whole grain crackers, or a fruit platter. It also goes well with a chilled soup, like gazpacho, for a refreshing meal duo.