Introduction
Looking for a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for warm days, quick lunches, or elegant appetizers? This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is the answer! Crisp cucumbers, succulent shrimp, and a tangy, creamy dressing come together in minutes for a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Whether you’re meal-prepping, hosting a summer gathering, or just craving something cool and flavorful, this salad delivers. Plus, it’s gluten-free, low-carb friendly, and packed with protein—making it a hit for health-conscious eaters.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Ready in 15 Minutes – No cooking required (if using pre-cooked shrimp).
Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for days in the fridge.
Light & Refreshing – Ideal for hot weather or as a palate cleanser.
Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy as a salad, appetizer, or in lettuce wraps.
Crowd-Pleasing – A hit at potlucks and parties.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 lb cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)
- 2 medium cucumbers (thinly sliced or diced)
- ¼ red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
- 1 avocado (diced, optional for extra creaminess)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Add-Ins:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or chives
Step 2: Prepare the Salad
Prep the Shrimp
If using raw shrimp, cook in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pink, then chill. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
Slice the Veggies
Thinly slice cucumbers and red onion. If preferred, sprinkle cucumbers with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to reduce excess water, then pat dry.
Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
Toss Everything Together
In a large bowl, gently mix shrimp, cucumbers, red onion, dill, and avocado (if using) with the dressing.
Chill (Optional but Recommended)
Let the salad rest in the fridge for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Garnish & Enjoy!
Top with extra dill, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of paprika for color.
Tips for the Best Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Use Chilled Shrimp – Ensures the salad stays cool and refreshing.
Drain Cucumbers Well – Prevents a watery dressing.
Adjust Creaminess – Add more Greek yogurt for a lighter version or mayo for richness.
Make It Spicy – Toss in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Over-mixing – Can make shrimp mushy.
Skipping the acid (lemon/lime) – Balances the creaminess.
Using watery cucumbers – Salt and drain them first if needed.
FAQs About Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Thaw overnight in the fridge or under cold running water before using.
Q: How long does this salad last?
A: Up to 2 days in the fridge (best eaten fresh due to cucumbers softening).
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Swap Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt or omit mayo for extra lemon and olive oil.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Try it over greens, in a wrap, or with crusty bread for dipping.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is the ultimate quick, refreshing, and protein-packed dish—perfect for busy days, picnics, or elegant starters. With its bright flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a warm-weather favorite.
Ready to try it? Whip up a batch today and enjoy a taste of summer in every bite! Don’t forget to tag your creations #CucumberShrimpSalad.
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Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad: A Refreshing & Protein-Packed Dish
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Description
Dive into the crispness of cucumber and the succulence of shrimp in this creamy cucumber shrimp salad. Light yet satisfying, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures for a refreshing meal on a warm day.
Ingredients
1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: sliced cherry tomatoes, fresh dill sprigs
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp and thinly sliced cucumbers.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the creamy dressing over the shrimp and cucumber mixture, tossing gently to coat.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, garnish with sliced cherry tomatoes and fresh dill sprigs if desired.
Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing taste of this creamy cucumber shrimp salad!
- Cook Time: 20 mins
