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Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a refreshing, light, and zesty dish perfect for hot summer days. Combining tender shrimp with crisp cucumbers and a luscious creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, fresh dill, and lemon juice, it offers a delightful balance of texture and flavors. Quick to prepare and nutritious, this salad serves as an excellent light lunch, appetizer, or side dish that complements any summer meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups cooked shrimp, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 medium fresh cucumbers, thinly sliced (peeled if preferred)

Dressing

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (or a mix of both to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove minced garlic
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Herbs & Garnishes

  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • Lemon wedge, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: If your shrimp are not pre-cooked, boil or sauté medium-sized shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. Allow them to cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces for easier mixing in the salad.
  2. Slice the Cucumbers: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers. You may peel them for a softer texture or leave the skin on for added color and nutrients. Optionally, halve or dice the slices for a more delicate texture.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt or mayonnaise with fresh lemon juice, garlic powder or minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: Add the chopped shrimp and sliced cucumbers into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Stir in the fresh dill last to maintain its bright, herbal flavor.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and to keep the dish refreshing. Serve cold, garnished with additional dill or a lemon wedge if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
  • To prevent a watery salad, sprinkle sliced cucumbers with salt, let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain off excess water before mixing.
  • Adjust the ratio of Greek yogurt to mayonnaise based on your preference for tanginess or richness.
  • If adding crunchy nuts or seeds, toss them in just before serving to keep their texture crisp.
  • Refrigerate before serving to enhance flavor melding and maintain cool freshness.
  • Best eaten within 2 days to preserve freshness and texture.
  • Freezing is not recommended as cucumbers and dressing separate upon thawing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad, Shrimp Salad, Summer Salad, Light Salad, Gluten Free Salad, Quick Shrimp Recipe, Healthy Salad, Greek Yogurt Dressing