Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Vegetables and Shrimp
Begin by rinsing and slicing your cucumbers, halving the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slicing the red onion. If using frozen cooked shrimp, thaw them under cold water, then pat dry.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and lemon juice. Add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Stir until the dressing is smooth and well mixed. For a lighter version, try half mayo and half plain Greek yogurt.
3. Combine and Toss
In a large mixing bowl, combine shrimp, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and dill. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is important as it allows the flavors to meld and the salad to develop its full taste profile.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve chilled, either on its own, over a bed of greens, or with crusty whole-grain bread on the side. Garnish with extra dill or a lemon wedge if desired.
Nutritional Benefits
This shrimp salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here's why:
Shrimp: A great source of lean protein, low in calories, and rich in selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12.
Cucumbers: Hydrating and low in calories, they add crunch without heaviness.
Dill and lemon juice: Full of antioxidants and flavor, with minimal calories.
Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: Provides healthy fats (especially if you choose an olive-oil-based or low-fat version).
If you're watching your diet, this salad fits well into keto, low-carb, and Mediterranean-style eating plans.
Customization Tips
One of the great things about this salad is how easy it is to adapt:
For more texture: Add chopped celery or bell peppers.
For extra protein: Toss in a boiled egg or some crumbled feta.
For a spicy kick: A pinch of cayenne or a few chili flakes work wonders.
To make it a full meal: Serve it over quinoa, couscous, or chilled pasta.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This salad holds up well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container and give it a gentle stir before serving again. It’s a great choice for lunchboxes, picnic baskets, or a quick grab-and-go meal between meetings.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is one of those rare recipes that checks all the boxes: easy to make, healthy, flavorful, and perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re planning a summer cookout or simply need something light and refreshing for lunch, this salad is a go-to favorite.
Its blend of juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing offers comfort without guilt, while the ease of preparation makes it a staple for warm-weather meals. So next time you're looking for a cool, crowd-pleasing dish, give this one a try—you won’t be disappointed.
