Cucumber Shrimp Salad

This cucumber shrimp salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and textures, making it perfect for summer gatherings or a light dinner. The combination of tender shrimp, crisp cucumbers, and a zesty lime dressing creates a refreshing meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a healthy lunch option, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh vegetables and herbs elevates the dish’s taste and nutritional value.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this salad is great for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish at any gathering.
• Flavorful Dressing: The creamy lime dressing adds an irresistible zing that complements the shrimp.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this salad is great for health-conscious eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process. Having everything on hand will make preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot for boiling water
• Skimmer or slotted spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Colander
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot for boiling water: Essential for cooking the shrimp quickly and evenly.
• Skimmer or slotted spoon: Useful for transferring cooked shrimp to the ice water bath without losing them.
• Mixing bowl: Needed to combine all ingredients and toss the salad effortlessly.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 pounds shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 English cucumber (small diced)
• 3 green onions (thinly sliced)

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 1 large lime (zested and juiced (about 2 teaspoons zest and 2 tablespoons juice))
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

To make the dressing, stir together:
1. Mayonnaise
2. Sour cream
3. Lime zest
4. Lime juice
5. Dill
6. Dijon mustard
7. Minced garlic
8. Kosher salt

Set it aside or place in the fridge while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the shrimp to the boiling water.
3. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until they turn pink and are cooked through.

Step 3: Make an Ice Water Bath

While the shrimp cook:
1. Prepare an ice water bath in a large bowl.
2. Once cooked, use a skimmer to transfer shrimp into the ice water bath.
3. Cool for about 3 minutes.
4. Drain in a colander and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Stir It All Together

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine chopped shrimp, sliced green onion, diced cucumber, and prepared dressing.
2. Stir until everything is coated evenly with dressing.

Enjoy your Cucumber Shrimp Salad as a flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Cucumber shrimp salad is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Crisp lettuce leaves provide a perfect vessel for the salad. Fill each leaf with a generous scoop of cucumber shrimp salad for a light appetizer.

On Toasted Bread

• Serve the salad on slices of toasted baguette or crostini. This adds a delightful crunch and makes for an elegant hors d’oeuvre.

With Avocado Slices

• Pair the salad with avocado slices for a creamy contrast. The rich flavor of avocado complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

As a Dip

• Use cucumber shrimp salad as a dip for crackers or veggie sticks. This casual presentation is great for parties and gatherings.

How to Perfect Cucumber Shrimp Salad

To make the best cucumber shrimp salad, follow these expert tips that will elevate your dish.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest shrimp and vegetables available. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld together, creating a tastier dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or lime juice can make a big difference.
• Experiment with Herbs: While dill is traditional, feel free to try other herbs like cilantro or parsley for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Cucumber shrimp salad pairs well with various side dishes, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy texture of the salad perfectly, adding a comforting carbohydrate element.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad seasoned with lemon and herbs provides an excellent protein boost and adds more nutrients to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer a warm and savory side that contrasts beautifully with the cold shrimp salad.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings additional texture and tanginess, balancing out the creaminess of the cucumber shrimp salad.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can serve as a sweet contrast to the savory flavors, making your meal feel balanced and vibrant.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and pairs well with seafood dishes, enhancing your overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your cucumber shrimp salad, avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them tough and rubbery. Always cook shrimp just until they turn pink, which usually takes 2-3 minutes.
• Using old ingredients: Freshness is key! Always check your cucumbers and herbs for quality before using them. Old ingredients can impact flavor and texture.
• Skipping the ice water bath: Failing to cool the shrimp quickly can lead to overcooking. An ice water bath stops the cooking process and keeps shrimp tender.
• Not seasoning enough: Make sure to taste your dressing before mixing it with the shrimp and veggies. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Ignoring storage recommendations: Proper storage is crucial for maintaining freshness. Store your cucumber shrimp salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator Storage

• Cucumber shrimp salad lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Keep the salad separate from the dressing if you plan to eat leftovers later for optimal texture.

Freezing Cucumber Shrimp Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of cucumbers after thawing.
• If needed, you can freeze only the cooked shrimp for up to 1 month.
• Be sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Cucumber Shrimp Salad

• Oven: Not recommended as this dish is best served cold.
• Microwave: If you prefer warm shrimp, heat on low power for short intervals, stirring frequently.
• Stovetop: Gently warm cooked shrimp over low heat, being careful not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cucumber Shrimp Salad?

Cucumber shrimp salad is a refreshing dish that combines cooked shrimp with crisp cucumbers, green onions, and a creamy lime dressing. It’s perfect as a light meal or appetizer.

Can I customize my Cucumber Shrimp Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like avocado, tomatoes, or even switch out herbs based on your preference. The dressing can also be adjusted with different spices or citrus flavors.

How do I make Cucumber Shrimp Salad ahead of time?

Prepare the components separately—cook the shrimp and chop vegetables in advance. Mix everything together just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! This cucumber shrimp salad is low in carbs and packed with protein from shrimp. It’s also rich in vitamins from fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

What should I serve with Cucumber Shrimp Salad?

This salad pairs well with crusty bread or crackers for a light lunch or dinner. You could also serve it alongside other salads or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Cucumber shrimp salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Its fresh flavors make it suitable for various occasions—from casual lunches to elegant dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the dressing. Enjoy making this delightful dish!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Cucumber Shrimp Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Transform your summer gatherings with this vibrant Cucumber Shrimp Salad. This dish harmoniously blends fresh shrimp, crisp cucumbers, and aromatic green onions in a creamy lime dressing, making it a light yet satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to serve as a main course or a refreshing side dish. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a healthy lunch option, this salad is bound to impress your guests with its delightful flavors and textures.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 English cucumber (small diced)
• 3 green onions (thinly sliced)
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 1 large lime (zested and juiced)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• Kosher salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest, lime juice, dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and kosher salt. Set aside in the fridge.
2. Bring a pot of water to boil. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink.
3. Prepare an ice water bath while the shrimp cook. Once cooked, transfer shrimp to the ice bath for about 3 minutes.
4. Drain and chop the cooled shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large bowl, mix chopped shrimp with diced cucumber, green onions, and the prepared dressing until well combined.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 275
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 180mg