This Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a refreshing and light dish, perfect for hot days. Juicy shrimp pairs with crispy cucumbers and a zingy dressing to keep things tasty!
It’s one of my favorite quick meals because it comes together so fast. Just toss everything in a bowl, and you’re ready to impress your friends or enjoy it all by yourself! 🦐🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Shrimp: Here, cooked shrimp is key for a quick meal. If you can’t find pre-cooked shrimp, you can boil or sauté fresh shrimp until pink and opaque. Frozen shrimp works too—just make sure to thaw and drain well before using.
Cucumber: A large cucumber adds crunch. If English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are available, you can use them as well; they’re usually less bitter and have fewer seeds. If you’re looking for a twist, try adding diced avocado for creaminess.
Dill: Fresh dill gives this salad brightness. If you don’t have fresh dill, substituting dried dill is fine, though use less as it’s more potent. You might also try other herbs like parsley or cilantro for different flavor notes.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise binds everything together. If you’re watching calories, consider Greek yogurt for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, try vegan mayonnaise or a tangy avocado dressing.
How Do I Properly Prepare the Dressing for this Salad?
Making the dressing is simple but crucial for great flavor. Mixing up the mayo, lime juice, and olive oil creates a creamy and zesty coat for your shrimp and veggies.
- In a small bowl, add 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Whisk these together until fully blended, ensuring there’s no separation.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before adding to the salad mix. This way, the dressing complements all ingredients perfectly!
How to Make Cucumber Shrimp Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cucumber Shrimp Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an extra 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Just a little wait time to let all those fresh flavors come together, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced cucumber, red onion, celery, and fresh dill. This colorful mix will be the base of your salad!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until you have a smooth dressing. This will add creamy and tangy flavors to your salad.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the shrimp and vegetable mixture, then gently toss everything together to ensure that all the ingredients are coated evenly. You want to make sure each bite is flavorful!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If you think it needs more flavor, feel free to add a pinch of salt, a bit more pepper, or another splash of lime juice to brighten it up.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover your salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your salad even tastier!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before you serve your Cucumber Shrimp Salad, garnish it with sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it chilled, and enjoy your delightful, refreshing dish!
Can I Use Fresh Shrimp Instead of Cooked Shrimp?
Absolutely! If using fresh shrimp, make sure to cook and cool them first. Boil or steam the shrimp until they turn pink (about 2-3 minutes), then cool them in ice water before peeling and deveining.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It adds creaminess with a bit of tang. You can also use avocado puree for a dairy-free alternative!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
This cucumber shrimp salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the cucumbers can become a bit soggy over time.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Yes, you can definitely customize the salad! Chopped bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even corn can add extra crunch and flavor. Just be sure to keep the ratios similar for the best texture and taste.
