Shrimp Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This shrimp salad is quick and easy to prepare, yet it feels special enough to serve at a gathering or as a light, refreshing meal. The shrimp are perfectly cooked and paired with a variety of crunchy vegetables, creating a satisfying texture in every bite. The creamy dressing adds richness and balances the flavors. Plus, it’s customizable—you can adjust the ingredients or dressing to suit your tastes. Whether served on a bed of lettuce, in a wrap, or alongside some crusty bread, this shrimp salad is sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup celery, chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, celery, and chopped parsley.

2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Pour the dressing over the shrimp and vegetable mixture and gently toss to coat.

4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to suit your preferences.

5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 10 minutes (plus optional chilling time)

Variations

• Add avocado for a creamy, buttery texture.

• For some extra crunch, toss in some chopped bell peppers or a handful of mixed greens.

• For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

• Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the dressing.

• Try adding some boiled eggs or bacon for extra flavor and protein.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover shrimp salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp salad is best eaten fresh but can last in the fridge for a short time.

• This salad is typically enjoyed cold, and there’s no need to reheat it. Just give it a stir before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this salad?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking and peeling.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this shrimp salad a few hours ahead of time. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate it. The flavors will develop even more with a little chilling.

3. How do I cook shrimp for this salad?

You can boil, sauté, or grill the shrimp for this salad. Just cook them until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.

4. Can I add fruit to this shrimp salad?

Yes! Mango, pineapple, or even citrus segments can add a nice sweet contrast to the savory shrimp salad.

5. How can I make this salad spicier?

To add some heat, mix in a bit of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce into the dressing.

6. Can I use other types of seafood in this salad?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp with other seafood like crab meat, lobster, or scallops for a different variation.

7. How long will shrimp salad last in the fridge?

Shrimp salad will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. After that, the shrimp may lose their freshness, so it’s best to enjoy it within a couple of days.

8. Can I use a different dressing for the shrimp salad?

Certainly! You can experiment with different dressings, such as a vinaigrette or a creamy ranch dressing, depending on your taste preference.

9. How can I serve shrimp salad?

Shrimp salad is versatile—serve it on a bed of greens, in a wrap, in a sandwich, or as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers.

10. Can I make shrimp salad without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or avocado for a different creamy texture.

Conclusion

Shrimp salad is a quick, flavorful, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy dressing, this recipe offers the ideal balance of textures and flavors. It’s customizable, easy to make, and versatile enough to be served in various ways. Whether you’re preparing it for a light lunch or as a side dish for a dinner, this shrimp salad is sure to be a hit!