Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a refreshing and light dish, perfect for a healthy lunch or as a side during dinner. The combination of crisp cucumber, tender shrimp, and creamy dressing with a hint of dill makes this salad a delightful treat. Here’s how you can put it together:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for extra tang
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Ensure your shrimp are fully cooked, peeled, and deveined.
- If they’re large, you might consider cutting them into smaller pieces for easier eating.
- Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion.
- You can use a mandoline slicer for consistent and thin slices, which helps in absorbing the dressing better.
Mix the Dressing:
- In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped dill.
- If you’re using the optional Dijon mustard, add it now.
- Whisk together until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Combine Salad Ingredients:
- In a larger mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, red onions, and cooked shrimp.
- Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Chill and Serve:
- For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and check if additional seasoning is needed.
Tips:
Serving Suggestions: This salad can be served on its own as a light meal or alongside grilled meats or crusty bread for a more filling meal.
Variations: Add avocado for creaminess or capers for a briny depth. For a crunch, sprinkle some toasted slivered almonds or sunflower seeds on top before serving.
Storage: Keep the salad refrigerated and consume within 1-2 days. The cucumbers will release water over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion:
Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that combines healthy ingredients with a rich, flavorful dressing. It’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing meal any time of the year. Enjoy this easy-to-make salad that’s sure to impress both in taste and presentation!
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