Cucumber Shrimp Salad – Easy and Healthy Recipe

Cucumber shrimp salad is a light yet satisfying dish that combines the juicy flavors of shrimp with the crispness of cucumbers, all coated in a creamy, tangy lime dill dressing. This salad is an excellent option for a healthy lunch or dinner, offering a refreshing twist on traditional shrimp salads. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, it is the perfect meal for a quick and easy dish that will leave you feeling full without being heavy. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving it at a gathering, this cucumber shrimp salad is sure to impress!

Why Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a Must-Try

Cucumber shrimp salad is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that checks all the boxes for a quick, nutritious meal. The fresh ingredients, including bite-sized shrimp, crisp cucumbers, and green onions, are enhanced by a creamy lime dressing that adds a burst of flavor. It’s an excellent source of protein, perfect for anyone looking to eat clean and healthy. Moreover, the balance of veggies and protein makes it an ideal option for those watching their calories or following a low-carb diet.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: The star of the salad, providing a protein-packed base. You can use either freshly caught or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined.

• English Cucumber: Known for its hearty, crunchy texture, the English cucumber adds a refreshing element to the salad.

• Green Onions: These add a mild, fresh flavor that complements the rest of the ingredients.

• Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the dressing, bringing richness and smoothness to the salad.

• Sour Cream: Adds a tangy depth to the dressing, balancing the richness of mayonnaise.

• Dijon Mustard: Offers a subtle spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile of the dressing.

• Lime: Fresh lime zest and juice provide a citrusy zing that brightens up the entire salad.

• Fresh Dill: The perfect herb to enhance the overall flavor, dill’s slight bitterness and freshness add an aromatic quality.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make substitutions, here are a few suggestions for dietary preferences or missing ingredients:

• Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier, tangier dressing.
• Replace sour cream with cottage cheese for a lighter alternative.
• Use Persian cucumbers instead of English cucumbers for a more delicate flavor and smaller size.
• For an extra kick, substitute Dijon mustard with spicy brown mustard or even horseradish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest and juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until smooth. Refrigerate the dressing until you’re ready to use it.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook them for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Chill the Shrimp: Prepare an ice water bath while the shrimp cook. After cooking, transfer the shrimp to the ice water to halt the cooking process. Let them cool for about 3 minutes, then drain and chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the chilled shrimp, diced cucumber, and sliced green onions. Pour the chilled dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salad on its own, or as a filling for lettuce wraps, sandwiches, or stuffed avocados for a complete meal.

Tips & Tricks

• Be mindful of shrimp doneness: Shrimp can overcook quickly, so make sure to remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.
• For an extra crunch, try adding celery or bell peppers to the salad.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can mix in a bit of hot sauce or chili flakes to the dressing.
• For longer storage, keep the dressing and shrimp separate until you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain the freshness of the cucumbers and avoids wilting.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This cucumber shrimp salad is incredibly versatile and can be paired with many dishes. Here are some great ideas:

• Lettuce Wraps: Serve the salad on butter leaf lettuce or romaine lettuce for a healthy, low-carb option.
• Stuffed Avocados: Spoon the salad into avocado halves for a creamy, delicious bite.
• Tortilla Wrap: Wrap the salad in a tortilla with spinach or alfalfa sprouts for a satisfying meal on the go.
• Shrimp Salad Sandwich: Spread the salad on whole-grain bread or a sandwich roll, adding layers of spinach or other leafy greens.

Storage Tips

While cucumber shrimp salad is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to keep the salad cool, as it contains mayonnaise, which can spoil quickly if left out at room temperature for too long.

Seasonal & Health Benefits

Cucumber shrimp salad is an excellent summer dish, perfect for hot weather when you want something light yet filling. It’s full of protein from the shrimp and is low in carbs, making it a great option for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. Additionally, the fresh cucumber adds a good dose of hydration, while the lime and dill bring vibrant, refreshing flavors that are perfect for the warmer months.

Cucumber shrimp salad isn’t just tasty—it’s a great way to incorporate more seafood and vegetables into your diet. Whether you’re looking to meal prep for the week or need a quick dish to serve guests, this recipe will not disappoint!

Conclusion

Cucumber shrimp salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that brings together the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that works as a meal on its own or as a side dish. The crunchy cucumbers, fresh dill, and creamy lime dressing add a burst of flavor to the tender shrimp, making it a delightful option for meal prep or a light, satisfying dinner. Whether you’re eating it wrapped in lettuce, tucked into a sandwich, or served on its own, this cucumber shrimp salad will surely become a favorite for its versatility and fresh taste.

FAQ

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