Cucumber Shrimp Salad

This Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a vibrant dish that combines fresh flavors and textures, making it perfect for any gathering or as a light dinner. The succulent shrimp pairs beautifully with crunchy cucumbers and a zesty lime dressing, creating an unforgettable taste experience. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a refreshing meal, this salad is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this salad can be on your table in just 30 minutes.
• Flavorful: The combination of creamy dressing, zesty lime, and fresh herbs gives this salad a bright and delicious flavor.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main dish, a side salad, or as an appetizer at parties; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and low in carbs, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together for even greater taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cucumber Shrimp Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skimmer
• Mixing bowl
• Colander
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the shrimp quickly and efficiently.
• Skimmer: Helps you easily transfer the cooked shrimp to the ice water bath without losing any.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients smoothly.
• Knife & Cutting board: Necessary for chopping cucumbers, shrimp, and other ingredients accurately.

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 prepare the dressing, stir together the following ingredients in a mixing bowl:
1. ⅓ cup mayonnaise
2. ⅓ cup sour cream
3. Lime zest from one large lime
4. Juice from one large lime
5. 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
6. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
7. 1 minced garlic clove
8. ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Boil water in a large pot over high heat.
1. Once boiling, add the shrimp.
2. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.
3. Remove immediately to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Make an Ice Water Bath

While cooking shrimp:
1. Prepare an ice water bath in a separate bowl.
2. After cooking, use a skimmer to transfer shrimp into this ice bath for about 3 minutes to cool quickly.
3. Drain cooled shrimp using a colander and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Stir It All Together

In your mixing bowl:
1. Combine chopped shrimp with thinly sliced green onions and diced cucumber.
2. Pour in the dressing you made earlier.
3. Stir gently until everything is well-coated in the creamy dressing.

Enjoy your refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad!

How to Serve Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Cucumber shrimp salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic or as a light dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Crisp lettuce leaves make an excellent base for this salad. Simply spoon the cucumber shrimp salad onto the leaves and roll them up for easy eating.

With Crackers

• Serve the salad on top of whole-grain or gluten-free crackers. The crunch complements the creaminess of the dressing and adds texture.

As a Sandwich Filling

• Use the cucumber shrimp salad as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Pair it with fresh bread to create a delightful lunch option.

On a Bed of Greens

• Create a beautiful presentation by serving the salad on a bed of mixed greens. The vibrant colors will make for an eye-catching dish.

With Avocado Slices

• Top your cucumber shrimp salad with slices of ripe avocado. The creaminess of the avocado enhances the overall flavor profile.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions in individual cups or shot glasses for an elegant appetizer at parties. Garnish with dill for added flair.

How to Perfect Cucumber Shrimp Salad

To ensure your cucumber shrimp salad turns out amazing every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and crisp cucumbers will enhance flavor and texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and lime juice according to your preference before serving.
• Include Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for more color and crunch.
• Make it Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Garnish Creatively: Finish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add brightness and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Pairing side dishes with cucumber shrimp salad can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this refreshing dish.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds a savory element that balances the lightness of the salad.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides additional crunch and acidity, making it a perfect match.
3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad can boost your meal’s nutritional value while providing diverse flavors.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers sweetness that contrasts nicely with shrimp.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add warmth and heartiness, pairing well with the coolness of the cucumber shrimp salad.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a comforting side that everyone loves.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds a fun, summery touch to any outdoor meal alongside this dish.
8. Chips with Salsa: A bowl of tortilla chips served with fresh salsa brings in crunchy textures and bold flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cucumber shrimp salad, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a better dish. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them rubbery. To avoid this, cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
• Not chilling the shrimp: Skipping the ice water bath may result in warm shrimp, which can affect the salad’s overall freshness. Always cool the shrimp in ice water after cooking.
• Using old cucumbers: Wilted or soft cucumbers can ruin the crispness of your salad. Choose fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture.
• Skipping the dressing flavoring: Not properly seasoning your dressing can lead to bland salad flavor. Ensure you mix in enough lime juice, dill, and mustard for a zesty kick.
• Mixing too soon: Combining all ingredients before the shrimp cools or before serving can lead to a soggy salad. Mix everything together right before serving for maximum freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Storage duration: Cucumber shrimp salad will last 1-2 days in the refrigerator.
• Container type: Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Keep it separate: If possible, store the dressing separately to avoid sogginess until ready to serve.

Freezing Cucumber Shrimp Salad

• Freezing not recommended: It’s best not to freeze cucumber shrimp salad as it may lose its texture and flavor when thawed.

Reheating Cucumber Shrimp Salad

• Oven: Reheating in the oven is not recommended as this dish is typically served cold.
• Microwave: If you must use a microwave, reheat only the shrimp briefly on low power. Avoid reheating dressed salad.
• Stovetop: Similar to microwave heating, avoid direct heat for dressed salad; only warm up plain shrimp if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make cucumber shrimp salad healthier?

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use less dressing to reduce calories while keeping it delicious.

Can I customize my cucumber shrimp salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like avocado or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with cucumber shrimp salad?

This refreshing dish pairs well with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal.

How long does cucumber shrimp salad last?

Properly stored, it will last 1-2 days in the refrigerator but is best enjoyed fresh.

Is cucumber shrimp salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as there are no wheat-based ingredients involved.

Final Thoughts

Cucumber shrimp salad is a delightful dish that marries fresh flavors with satisfying textures. Its versatility allows for various customization options like adding different veggies or proteins. Don’t hesitate to try this refreshing recipe at your next gathering!

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Cucumber Shrimp Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together the succulent taste of shrimp with crunchy cucumbers, all tossed in a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light dinner, this salad is not only delicious but also quick to prepare.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 English cucumber (diced)
• 3 green onions (sliced)
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• Juice and zest of 1 large lime
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing by mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice and zest, dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and salt in a bowl. Refrigerate until needed.
2. Boil water in a large pot and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink. Remove from heat immediately and transfer to an ice water bath.
3. After cooling for about 3 minutes, drain shrimp and chop into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp with diced cucumber and sliced green onions. Pour in the dressing and gently mix until everything is well-coated.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 200mg