Name: Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds raw, large peeled and deveined shrimp ((21 to 30 per pound; no need to thaw if frozen)); 2 medium stalks celery (finely chopped (about 2/3 cup)); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream); 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives; 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice ((from 1 medium lemon)); 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more as needed); 1 medium English cucumber (or 6 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced crosswise (about 3 cups)); Freshly ground black pepper

Introduction to Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Are you looking for a refreshing dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition? The creamy cucumber shrimp salad could just be your new go-to recipe! This delightful salad combines tender shrimp with crisp cucumbers and a luscious creamy dressing, making it a perfect meal for warm days or a quick lunch during a busy workweek.

Why Choose a Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad?

This salad stands out not only for its vibrant flavors but also for its health benefits. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and is low in calories, making it a fantastic option for those mindful of their dietary choices. Coupled with nutrient-rich cucumbers and a tangy dressing that includes Greek yogurt, this dish is both satisfying and good for you.

Have you ever found yourself in a cooking slump, longing for something new but healthy? With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, this creamy cucumber shrimp salad is here to shake things up. Not to mention, it's a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, proving that healthy meals can also be delicious. Looking for inspiration or need tips? Check out this article on cooking seafood for more insights!

So, whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic or enjoying it solo, this salad is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Fresh Ingredients for the Best Flavor

Creating a creamy cucumber shrimp salad that’s bursting with flavor starts with using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shrimp: Use 2 pounds of raw, large peeled and deveined shrimp for that succulent texture. If you're in a hurry, there's no need to thaw them if frozen!
Celery: Two medium stalks finely chopped bring a satisfying crunch and freshness, adding about ⅔ cup to your salad.
Creamy Base: A blend of ¼ cup mayonnaise and ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream creates that luscious creaminess everyone craves.
Herbs: Fresh chives and dill (both 2 tablespoons, finely chopped) elevate the dish, infusing it with vibrant flavors.
Cucumber: Use one medium English cucumber, or if you prefer, six Persian cucumbers, sliced thinly for a refreshing crunch.
Seasonings: A touch of lemon juice (2 tablespoons), Dijon mustard (2 teaspoons), and ½ teaspoon kosher salt ties it all together beautifully.

By incorporating these fresh ingredients, your creamy cucumber shrimp salad will be a showstopper at any gathering. Want to explore the benefits of fresh ingredients further? Check out this article on EatingWell for more insights!

Preparing Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Making a delightful creamy cucumber shrimp salad is a quick and satisfying process that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a refreshing lunch option. Let’s walk through it step by step and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy!

Boil the Shrimp

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a satisfying boil. Once boiling, carefully add 2 pounds of raw, large peeled and deveined shrimp. The general rule of thumb for perfect shrimp is to cook them until they turn pink and opaque—this typically takes about 1.5 minutes for fresh shrimp and 3 minutes for frozen shrimp. Don't wander off; shrimp can overcook easily! Once done, drain them in a colander, and for that ideal texture, give them a cold shower under running water for about a minute. Spread them out on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to dry, then pop them in the refrigerator while you work on your dressing.

Prepare the Dressing

Next up is the dressing, which is where most of the magic happens. In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

2 finely chopped celery stalks (about ⅔ cup)
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (the Greek yogurt adds a nice tang!)
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon kosher salt

Stir all these ingredients together until well blended. The creamy texture and fresh flavors will make your creamy cucumber shrimp salad unbelievably tasty. For tips on ingredient selection and best practices, check out this guide on herbs and spices.

Combine Shrimp and Ingredients

Now for the fun part! Gently stir in the chilled shrimp and 1 medium English cucumber, thinly sliced. The crunchy cucumber is a perfect contrast to the creamy dressing and plump shrimp. Don’t rush this stage; take a moment to admire the colorful beauty of your creation.

Adjust Seasoning

Once everything is combined, it’s time to taste! Adjust the seasoning with a bit more kosher salt or freshly ground black pepper according to your liking. This step is essential, as the right balance will elevate your creamy cucumber shrimp salad to another level.

Serve it as a chilled salad or use it as a filling for wraps. Whatever way you choose, get ready for a dish that’s not only simple but also bursting with flavor and freshness! Enjoy your creation and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!

Variations on Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Additions and substitutions to try

Tailor your creamy cucumber shrimp salad to your liking with some fun additions! Consider tossing in ingredients like avocado for creaminess, feta cheese for a tangy kick, or even chopped apples for a delightful crunch. Want more protein? Try adding chicken ham or a sprinkle of crunchy Turkey bacon for a savory twist.

Lighten it up: Swapping ingredients

If you're looking to lighten the dish, swap out some mayonnaise for extra Greek yogurt or even a mild vinaigrette. You could also replace regular shrimp with grilled shrimp for a smoky flavor that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Curious about how to balance flavors or nutritional content? Check out Healthline for insights on healthy ingredient swaps!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

When preparing your creamy cucumber shrimp salad, freshness is key! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish:

Tip for Shrimp: If you're using frozen shrimp, there's no need to thaw them beforehand! Just increase the boiling time to about three minutes for perfect, tender shrimp.
Choosing Cucumbers: Opt for either a medium English cucumber or multiple Persian cucumbers for maximum crunch. This not only enhances texture but also adds vibrant color.
Seasoning: Always taste as you go! Once you add the shrimp and cucumber, adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can awaken all the flavors beautifully.

For more ideas on how to serve this delightful dish, check out this guide on salad pairings. Enjoy!

Serving suggestions for Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Perfect Pairings

When serving your creamy cucumber shrimp salad, consider making it a complete meal by pairing it with light, fresh sides. This dish pairs beautifully with:

Crusty Bread: A slice of sourdough or a warm baguette complements the salad while adding a satisfying crunch.
Mixed Greens: Brighten up your plate with a simple side salad of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens drizzled with olive oil and lemon for a zesty touch.

Ideal Serving Styles

Serve your creamy cucumber shrimp salad chilled in a large bowl for family-style sharing or in individual ramekins for a more elegant touch. Garnishing with additional fresh dill and a sprinkle of chives not only enhances the flavor but also adds visual appeal.

Suitable Occasions

This salad is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or even a casual dinner party. Its refreshing flavors make it a hit for warm-weather gatherings! For more ideas on sunny dishes, check out this article from EatingWell.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or a main dish, your guests will be delighted by this simple yet sumptuous recipe!

Time Breakdown for Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Preparation Time

Getting ready for this creamy cucumber shrimp salad is a breeze. You’ll need about 15 minutes to chop, mix, and prep the ingredients. It's a short burst of activity that’ll leave you feeling accomplished!

Cooking Time

With just 3 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights or quick lunches. You'll have succulent shrimp ready in no time.

Total Time

In approximately 18 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying salad that combines the lightness of cucumbers with the richness of shrimp. It’s so quick, you might just make this a staple in your culinary rotation!

For more tips on quick meal prep, check out this guide. Plus, don’t forget to stock up on fresh herbs for that extra flavor boost!

Nutritional Facts for Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Calories

Each serving of this creamy cucumber shrimp salad contains approximately 210 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Protein

With shrimp as the star ingredient, this salad is a fantastic source of protein, offering about 22 grams per serving. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a tasty meal.

Sodium

Keep in mind that this delicious salad has around 500 mg of sodium per serving. If you're watching your salt intake, you can adjust the kosher salt in the recipe to suit your taste.

For more detailed nutritional insights, you can refer to the USDA's FoodData Central which offers extensive information on various ingredients.

FAQs about Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Using frozen shrimp is not only convenient, but it’s also a great way to save some prep time. You can toss them straight into boiling water without thawing. Just remember to boil them a minute or so longer compared to fresh shrimp—about three minutes should do the trick. This way, you’ll still achieve that perfectly juicy texture in your creamy cucumber shrimp salad.

How long can I store this salad?

You can store your creamy cucumber shrimp salad in the refrigerator for about 2 to 3 days. Just keep it in an airtight container. Note that the cucumbers may lose some crispness over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you want to make it ahead, consider adding the cucumbers just before serving to maintain that refreshing crunch.

What can I serve with creamy cucumber shrimp salad?

This delightful salad pairs beautifully with various sides. Some popular options include:

Crusty bread or toast for a classic touch
A light green salad for added freshness
Cold pasta or quinoa salads for a heartier meal

Feel free to explore additional options by checking out resources like EatingWell for inspiration!

Conclusion on Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Indulging in a delightful creamy cucumber shrimp salad makes for a fresh, simple dish perfect for any occasion. It's not just delicious but also healthy, packed with protein and veggies. Whether you serve it at a summer gathering or enjoy it for lunch, this salad will surely impress! Explore variations and enjoy.