This Dill Shrimp Salad is a refreshing mix of shrimp, crunchy veggies, and a zingy dill dressing. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for a sunny day!
Honestly, who can resist that combo of shrimp and dill? I love making this for lunch, and it’s great served on a bed of greens or in a sandwich. Yum! 🦐🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using cooked shrimp makes prep super easy. If you have fresh shrimp, just boil or steam them first. For a budget-friendly option, you could substitute with canned tuna or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo gives creaminess to this salad, but Greek yogurt or sour cream can be a healthier alternative. You can also try vegan mayo if you’re avoiding eggs.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch. Just use a little less than the recipe calls for, as it can be more concentrated.
Dill: Fresh dill brings a unique flavor, but if it’s not available, dried dill can work—just use a bit less, as it’s more potent. Alternatively, parsley or chives can give a fresh twist.
How Do I Make My Dressing Blend Perfectly?
Creating a well-mixed dressing is key for flavor. Start by whisking together the mayo, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped dill in a bowl. It’s important to mix these ingredients well so the flavors mingle nicely.
- Use a whisk or fork to ensure there are no lumps.
- Once your dressing is smooth, gently fold in the shrimp and veggies with a spatula rather than stirring too vigorously to keep the shrimp intact.
Taste the dressing before adding salt and pepper. This way, you can adjust to your liking! Enjoy this fresh salad on its own or with some crusty bread.
Delicious Dill Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Green leaf lettuce, for serving
Estimated Time Needed:
This Dill Shrimp Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy dish, perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your next gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
Start by taking a large bowl and combining the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh dill. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing is the flavorful base for your salad!
2. Add the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the cooked shrimp, thinly sliced cucumber, and finely chopped red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir everything together, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated in that delicious dill dressing. Be gentle to keep the shrimp nice and intact!
3. Season to Taste:
Season your salad with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Taste it! If you think it needs a bit more zing, feel free to add a splash more lemon juice or a hint more dill.
4. Serve It Up:
To serve, take some crisp green leaf lettuce and lay it on your serving plates. Spoon the dill shrimp salad on top of the lettuce. If you have some extra fresh dill, sprinkle it over the top for a lovely garnish!
5. Enjoy It Chilled:
This salad is best enjoyed chilled, so you can even pop it in the fridge for a bit before serving. Enjoy this refreshing Dill Shrimp Salad as a light meal or a delightful party dish!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the salad. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag under cold running water for quicker results.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover dill shrimp salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the dressing may cause the vegetables to soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just add the lettuce just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This dill shrimp salad is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with crackers, in a sandwich, or over a bed of mixed greens. You could also serve it alongside a light soup for a complete meal!