This shrimp salad is tasty and refreshing, mixing succulent shrimp with creamy yogurt. It’s light and perfect for warm days or a quick lunchtime treat!
Making this salad always makes me feel like a chef! 🥗 It’s so easy to whip up, and I love adding a squeeze of lemon for that extra zing. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp adds the best flavor and texture, but you can use frozen shrimp if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw them first. I often choose shrimp that are already peeled for convenience.
Cucumber: A crunchy cucumber adds freshness. If you want a little more flavor, try using a Persian cucumber or even radishes for a spicy kick. I’ve swapped cucumbers for avocado before, which is creamy and delicious too!
Greek Yogurt: This is the star ingredient, giving creaminess and tang. If you prefer a lower-fat option, plain low-fat yogurt works. For a non-dairy version, try coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt!
Dill: Fresh dill adds a lovely herbal note. If you can’t find it, parsley or chives can work well as substitutes. I enjoy mixing different herbs sometimes for a unique twist.
Croutons: These add crunch, but you can skip them if you prefer a lighter salad. Toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds make a great substitute for added texture!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp sounds simple, but getting it just right is key. Overcooked shrimp can be tough and chewy, so watch closely!
- Start with a pot of boiling, salted water. The salt enhances the shrimp’s flavor.
- Add shrimp and boil until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes. They cook quickly, so don’t walk away!
- When they’re done, immediately drain and place them in cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep them tender.
Trust me, this method will give you perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
How to Make Shrimp Salad With Yogurt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup romaine lettuce or mixed greens, chopped
- 1/2 cup croutons (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This shrimp salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook the shrimp. After that, you’ll spend about 5 more minutes mixing it all together, making a total of around 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for a healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Shrimp:
Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. When the water is bubbling, carefully add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once they’re cooked, drain them and set aside to cool. You can place them in cold water to stop the cooking process if you’d like!
2. Preparing the Vegetables:
While the shrimp cools, grab a large bowl. Add the diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and chopped lettuce or mixed greens. Toss these together lightly. Adding a little crunch with the cucumber is super refreshing!
3. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper together. Whisk until well combined to create a creamy dressing. This is where a lot of the flavor comes from, so make it taste just right!
4. Combining It All:
Now, add the cooled shrimp to your bowl of veggies. Pour the yogurt dressing over everything. Toss everything gently to combine and make sure all the ingredients are coated with that delicious dressing. It’s coming together nicely!
5. Garnishing and Serving:
If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle croutons on top just before serving. This adds a lovely texture! You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh experience or chill it in the fridge for up to an hour to let the flavors meld together more. Either way, it’s a delightful dish!
This creamy Shrimp Salad with Yogurt is refreshingly light and perfect for lunch or dinner. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way is to place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quicker thaw.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can make the salad a few hours ahead of time. Just keep the salad in the refrigerator, but wait to add the croutons until just before serving to keep them crisp.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you want to switch from Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt or even sour cream for a different flavor. For a dairy-free version, any plant-based yogurt will work, just be sure it’s unsweetened!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. Just give it a little stir before serving!