Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad: A Light & Flavorful Favorite
Looking for a refreshing, protein-packed salad that’s ready in minutes? This creamy cucumber shrimp salad delivers satisfying flavors with crisp vegetables, tender shrimp, and a luscious dressing that’s perfect for summer meals or elegant entertaining!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad
This creamy cucumber shrimp salad is the perfect combination of crisp vegetables, tender shrimp, and a luscious creamy dressing! Each bite delivers satisfying protein, fresh crunch, and bright flavors that make it ideal for summer lunches, light dinners, or elegant appetizers.
This low-carb, keto-friendly salad comes together in just 15 minutes and gets even better as it chills, making it perfect for meal prep and entertaining.
Ingredients for Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad
For the Salad:
- 2 lbs cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium to large size)
- 3 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
For Serving:
- Butter lettuce leaves or crackers
- Avocado slices
- Extra fresh herbs for garnish
- Lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Serves: 4-6
- Prepare the shrimp: If using raw shrimp, boil in salted water for 2-3 minutes until pink. Drain and cool completely. Pat dry and cut larger shrimp in half if desired.
- Prep the cucumbers: Slice cucumbers into thin rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife. Place in colander, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, and let drain for 15 minutes.
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
- Assemble the salad: Pat cucumber slices dry and add to bowl with dressing. Add shrimp, red onion, dill, and chives. Toss gently to coat.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Add cherry tomatoes just before serving. Serve on lettuce leaves or with crackers.
Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp Salad
- Drain cucumbers properly: Salting removes excess water and prevents watery salad
- Use quality shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp work best
- Don’t overdress: Start with less dressing, add more as needed
- Fresh herbs matter: Use fresh dill and chives for the best flavor
- Chill time is crucial: Flavors meld and improve during refrigeration
Delicious Variations
Mediterranean Shrimp Salad
Add:
- Kalamata olives
- Feta cheese crumbles
- Fresh oregano
Asian-Inspired Version
Include:
- Sesame oil in dressing
- Rice vinegar instead of wine vinegar
- Edamame and sesame seeds
Avocado Shrimp Salad
Add:
- Diced avocado (fold in just before serving)
- Lime juice instead of lemon
Storage & Meal Prep
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 2 days for best quality. Make-ahead: Prepare components separately up to 4 hours in advance. Meal prep: Divide into containers, keep dressing separate if storing longer than 6 hours.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this healthy shrimp salad with:
- Crusty bread or pita chips
- Mixed green salad
- Grilled vegetables
- White wine or sparkling water with lemon
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use cooked frozen shrimp? A: Yes! Thaw completely and pat very dry before using.
Q: How do I prevent watery salad? A: Salt the cucumbers and let them drain, then pat everything dry before mixing.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free? A: Use vegan mayo and skip the sour cream, or substitute with cashew cream.
Q: How long does this salad keep? A: Best eaten within 2 days, as cucumbers will release more water over time.
The Perfect Light Summer Meal
This creamy cucumber shrimp salad proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With its satisfying protein, fresh vegetables, and creamy dressing, it’s a complete meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping, entertaining guests, or just wanting a light lunch, this easy shrimp salad delivers every time!
