This cucumber shrimp salad is light, zesty, and perfect for hot days! Fresh cucumbers, juicy shrimp, and a dash of lemon make each bite feel like a mini vacation.
Honestly, this salad is like a cool breeze on a summer day. I love tossing in some avocado for extra creaminess. Trust me, it’ll be a hit at your next picnic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using cooked shrimp saves time. You can substitute with crab meat, tofu for a vegetarian option, or even canned tuna if shrimp isn’t available.
Cucumbers: I recommend English or Persian cucumbers for their crispness and thinner skin. If neither is available, regular cucumbers can work, but peel them first to avoid bitterness.
Green Onions: They add a nice crunch and mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them, diced red onions will do, but use less since they are stronger in taste.
Dill: Fresh dill is best for this salad, but you can use dried dill. Just remember, dried herbs are stronger, so a teaspoon should suffice!
Mayonnaise: For a lighter take, Greek yogurt is a great substitute! It adds creaminess while cutting down on calories. You can also use light mayo if preferred.
How Do You Ensure the Shrimp is Perfectly Prepared?
If your shrimp are pre-cooked, you’ll want to chop them into bite-sized pieces carefully. If you’re cooking them yourself, follow these steps:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add raw shrimp and cook until they turn pink, usually about 2-3 minutes.
- Drain and immediately transfer to ice water to stop the cooking.
- Once cooled, peel, devein, and chop them for your salad.
Gently handling the shrimp helps maintain their tender texture, ensuring the salad tastes great!
Easy Refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium cucumbers, diced (preferably English or Persian cucumbers)
- 3 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber shrimp salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let those delightful flavors meld together. So, you can have a bright and zesty dish ready within an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by chopping the cooked shrimp into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl, ready for all the other tasty ingredients.
2. Chop the Cucumbers:
Wash the cucumbers and dice them into small cubes. Add the diced cucumbers to the bowl with the shrimp. These will add crispiness and freshness to your salad!
3. Add Green Onions and Dill:
Now, slice the green onions thinly and chop the fresh dill finely. Toss these into the mixing bowl with the shrimp and cucumbers. They add a great flavor boost!
4. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the fresh lemon juice until smooth. This dressing will bring everything together beautifully.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the mayonnaise dressing over the shrimp, cucumber, green onions, and dill in the large bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is coated in the creamy dressing.
6. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper into the salad, and mix gently again. Take a little taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend and makes the salad even more refreshing!
8. Optional Garnish:
When you’re ready to serve, dish out the salad and serve it with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Enjoy the cool, vibrant flavors of this delightful salad!
Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on warm days, this salad is sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Raw Shrimp Instead of Cooked Shrimp?
Yes, you can use raw shrimp, but you’ll need to cook them first! Boil the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink, then cool and chop them before adding to the salad.
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
This cucumber shrimp salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for the best texture and flavor!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise for a Lighter Version?
Absolutely! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light sour cream for a healthier option that still gives you that creamy texture.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Dill? Can I Use Dried Dill Instead?
Yes, you can use dried dill! Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about 1 teaspoon. If possible, try to let it sit for a few minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to meld.
