This Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a bright and tasty dish that’s perfect for warm days! With crunchy cucumbers and juicy shrimp, it’s as refreshing as a cool breeze.
I love how quick it is to throw together—just mix, chill, and enjoy! Sometimes, I even have it as a light lunch while daydreaming of summer beach days. 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Cooked shrimp is a star here! If fresh shrimp isn’t available, pre-cooked frozen shrimp works great too. Just thaw them before using. For a twist, you could even swap shrimp for cooked crab or chicken if you prefer.
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are ideal for their crunch and thin skin, but any cucumber will do. If you’re feeling adventurous, add thinly sliced radishes for extra color and a peppery bite!
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream: Greek yogurt adds creaminess with some tang. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Just remember, it may change the flavor a bit!
Dill: Fresh dill is the key herb here! If you’re in a pinch, dried dill can substitute, but use less since it’s more potent. I personally love adding a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor.
How Do I Properly Chill the Salad for Maximum Flavor?
Chilling the salad is important because it allows the flavors to come together beautifully. Here’s how to do it right:
- After tossing the salad, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it chill for an hour or even overnight enhances the flavors even more.
- Give it a gentle stir before serving, and if it looks a little thick, you can always add a splash of lemon juice or a bit more yogurt for creaminess!
This chilling step is a simple trick that makes all the difference in taste, so don’t skip it!
Refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill. So, in just under an hour, you can have a delicious and healthy salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the sliced cucumbers and the cooked shrimp into a large mixing bowl. This duo brings a fantastic crunch and delightful flavor to the salad.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together your choice of Greek yogurt or sour cream, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, chopped dill, and parsley. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy for a delicious dressing.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, pour the dressing over the cucumber and shrimp mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together so that each piece is nicely coated with the dressing.
4. Season the Salad:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad, adding to your taste. Give it another gentle mix to combine.
5. Chill and Meld the Flavors:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This is an important step as it allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
6. Garnish and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir. Garnish it with extra sprigs of fresh dill for that lovely herbal touch, and enjoy the crisp, creamy goodness!
This Cucumber Shrimp Salad is perfect for those warm days or as a light, healthy lunch. Enjoy each refreshing bite! 🌿🍤🥒
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Salad?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before using them. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for faster thawing.
How Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
If you want to keep it dairy-free, substitute the Greek yogurt or sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Just be mindful that this may alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If the cucumbers start to release water, the salad may become a bit watery, so enjoy it fresh for the best taste!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other crunchy veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions for additional flavor and texture. Just make sure to keep the balance between veggies and shrimp for the best outcome.