This refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a perfect light dish, combining crunchy cucumbers, juicy shrimp, and a zesty dressing. It’s bright and tasty, making it great for any meal!
I love how quick it is to make, and it’s super fun to enjoy on a hot day. Perfect for picnics or lunch! Just mix, chill, and then savor every bite. Who needs heavy meals, right?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp add great taste and texture. If you’re short on time, frozen shrimp works too—just make sure they’re thawed and patted dry before cooking. For a seafood-free version, consider using diced tofu or chickpeas.
Cucumber: I love using English cucumbers for their crisp texture and mild flavor. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers are fine; just peel them if they’re bitter. Zucchini is another creative substitute that adds a nice crunch.
Greek Yogurt: This ingredient gives creaminess and a slight tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, try coconut yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise for a similar texture. I sometimes add a bit of sour cream for extra richness!
Dill: Fresh dill is a standout in this salad. If you don’t have it, feel free to swap in fresh parsley or thyme for a different taste. Dried dill can work in a pinch but use less as it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can seem tricky, but it’s really straightforward. The key is to not overcook them! Here’s how you do it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the shrimp and cook for just 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Drain them immediately and run under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Let them cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
By following these steps, you’ll get perfectly cooked shrimp every time. Enjoy your salad with confidence!
How to Make Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lime wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes if you choose to chill it. So in total, you’ll be looking at around 45 minutes to get everything ready and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Shrimp:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully add the shrimp and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes. You want them to turn pink and opaque. Once done, drain the shrimp and rinse them under cold water to cool them quickly. After they cool off, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mixing the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, diced celery, chopped dill, and sliced green onions. This colorful mix will bring freshness to your salad!
3. Preparing the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir this mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Combining Everything:
Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl with the vegetables. Then, gently fold in the yogurt dressing until all the ingredients are well-coated. This step is crucial to get all the flavors blended nicely together!
5. Final Touches:
Give it a taste test! If you feel it needs more flavor, you can add extra salt, pepper, or lime juice according to your preference.
6. Serving:
You can serve this salad immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle. If you’d like, garnish with lime wedges before serving. Enjoy this light and tasty dish!
Can I Substitute Cooked Shrimp with Something Else?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use canned tuna or crab meat as a substitute. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before mixing to prevent the salad from becoming too runny. Alternatively, you can also use cooked chicken for a different flavor profile!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, you might want to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. Just give it a gentle stir or fold before enjoying again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad can be made ahead! Prepare the shrimp and mix the veggies and dressing, but keep them separate until an hour or two before serving. This way, the ingredients remain crisp and the dressing won’t make it soggy.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your salad! You can add diced avocado for creaminess, bell peppers for crunch, or even some diced mango for a touch of sweetness. Just adjust the seasoning if you introduce new flavors!
