If you’re looking for a refreshing yet satisfying dish, the Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. This vibrant salad blends crisp, cool cucumber slices with tender, juicy shrimp, all brought together by a zesty, herbaceous dressing that dances on your taste buds. Perfect for warm afternoons or as a light dinner, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also bursts with flavors that feel both fresh and indulgent, making it one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want something healthy without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe shine. Each component plays an essential role, from the crunchy cucumbers to the aromatic dill, creating a delightful balance of taste, texture, and color.
- 1 pound cooked shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and tails removed for easy eating and a juicy seafood flavor.
- 2 large cucumbers: Thinly sliced to add a crisp, refreshing crunch that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- ½ red onion: Thinly sliced for a mild sharpness that brightens the salad’s profile.
- ¼ cup fresh dill: Chopped finely to infuse the salad with a delicate herbaceous aroma and flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: The base of the dressing, providing richness and smoothness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds zingy brightness that awakens all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Contributes a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the shrimp and cucumbers.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a slight kick and creamy texture.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors beautifully.
How to Make Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Dressing
Start by combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until you have a smooth, well-emulsified dressing that promises to coat every bite with delightful flavor. This dressing is the secret weapon that ties the salad together perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, add the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion. These crisp ingredients provide the perfect crunchy texture, setting the stage for the succulent shrimp to shine. Then, fold in the cooked shrimp gently so they maintain their juicy tenderness without breaking apart.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the freshly whisked dressing over the cucumber, onion, and shrimp mixture. Toss everything delicately but thoroughly, ensuring every slice and bite is evenly coated with that tangy, herby goodness. This step helps meld all the ingredients so the flavors harmonize beautifully.
Step 4: Add Fresh Dill and Chill
Sprinkle the chopped dill over the salad and toss again to distribute that burst of fresh herbaceous flavor. Then, cover and refrigerate the entire salad for at least 30 minutes. The chilling period is crucial as it allows all the vibrant ingredients to mingle and deepen in flavor, making each mouthful even more refreshing and satisfying.
How to Serve Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add layers of taste, consider garnishing with a few sprigs of fresh dill or a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you crave a little heat. A wedge of lemon on the side not only brightens the plate but lets guests add a punch of acidity if they prefer more tang.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread, light summer soups, or even a chilled glass of white wine. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled vegetables or a quinoa pilaf to balance the freshness of the shrimp and cucumber with some warmth and earthiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve your Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe in individual glass bowls or hollowed-out cucumber boats. Layering the salad with alternating shrimp and cucumber slices in clear dishes can showcase the vibrant colors, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, but the cucumbers might lose a bit of their crispness. Give it a gentle stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing and freshen the flavors.
Freezing
Because cucumbers and fresh herbs tend to get watery and limp after freezing, this salad is best enjoyed fresh and not suitable for freezing. Freezing will compromise the texture and flavor you love in this crisp, refreshing dish.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. The fresh crunch of the cucumbers and the delicate shrimp texture are best served chilled right out of the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use raw shrimp for this salad?
It’s best to use cooked shrimp for this recipe to avoid overcooking them in the salad. If you have raw shrimp on hand, simply cook them briefly by boiling or sautéing before adding to the salad.
What alternatives can I use for fresh dill?
If dill is not your favorite, fresh parsley or chives make excellent substitutes, offering a different but equally fresh herbal note to the salad.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or even thinly sliced radishes can add interesting textures and flavors to personalize your Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe.
Is this salad suitable for special diets?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and pescatarian. It’s a wholesome option for anyone wanting a light but nutrient-rich meal.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
At least 30 minutes in the refrigerator is ideal to let all the ingredients marry in flavor, but you can also prep it a few hours ahead if you prefer more intense flavor blending.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe, it’s going to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s light, full of fresh flavors, and comes together in no time—perfect for busy days or entertaining guests. Give it a go and watch how this refreshing salad brightens up your meal rotation instantly!
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Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and healthy Cucumber Shrimp Salad featuring tender cooked shrimp, crisp cucumbers, and a zesty lemon-dill dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or appetizer, this no-cook Mediterranean-inspired salad combines bright flavors with a satisfying crunch and is quick to prepare.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
- 2 large cucumbers (thinly sliced)
- ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup fresh dill (chopped)
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, place the thinly sliced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion, and cooked shrimp, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly without breaking the shrimp or crushing the cucumbers.
- Add Fresh Dill: Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the salad and toss lightly once more to combine the herb thoroughly with the dressed salad.
- Chill Before Serving: Place the salad in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
- Serve: Serve the salad cold as a refreshing light lunch or appetizer, garnished as desired.
Notes
- Substitute fresh parsley or chives for dill if preferred for a different herbal flavor.
- Add a diced avocado for creaminess and additional texture variety.
- For a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes during dressing preparation.
