Name: Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 21 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 small English cucumber, diced; 3 count green onions, thinly sliced; ⅓ cup mayonnaise (homemade recommended); ⅓ cup sour cream; 1 large lime, zested and juiced ((about 2 teaspoons zest and 2 tablespoons juice)); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 count garlic clove, minced; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Introduction to Cucumber Shrimp Salad

If you’re searching for a refreshing dish that perfectly balances taste and nutrition, look no further than Cucumber Shrimp Salad. This vibrant medley brings together succulent shrimp, crisp cucumbers, and a creamy lime dressing that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Why choose a Cucumber Shrimp Salad?

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with protein and flavor! Shrimp is an excellent source of protein, with about 32 grams per serving, making it a fantastic choice for those following a healthy diet. Coupled with the hydrating benefits of cucumbers, this salad becomes a light yet satisfying meal option that can be enjoyed year-round.

Additionally, the lime dressing offers a zesty kick, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. With preparation taking less than 30 minutes, it’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights or a delightful addition to a summer gathering.

For those interested in elevating their culinary skills, you can learn how to make homemade mayonnaise to add a personal touch to your creamy dressing. It's simple and absolutely worth it!

In the upcoming sections, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the preparation of this Cucumber Shrimp Salad, empowering you to whip up a dish your friends and family will adore.

Ingredients for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Creating the perfect Cucumber Shrimp Salad starts with gathering fresh and flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully. Here's what you'll need:

Shrimp: Grab about 2 pounds of shrimp, peeled and deveined. Opt for fresh shrimp if possible, as it enhances the flavor. If you're short on time, frozen shrimp will do, just remember to thaw them first.
Cucumber: One English cucumber, small diced, adds a refreshing crunch. English cucumbers are great as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them perfect for salads.
Green Onions: Three green onions, thinly sliced, provide a wonderful mild onion flavor that complements the shrimp and dressing.

Creamy Lime Dressing

For the dressing, you'll mix together:

Mayonnaise: ⅓ cup for that creamy base.
Sour Cream: Another ⅓ cup to enrich the dressing’s texture.
Lime Zest and Juice: Use one large lime to get about 2 teaspoons of zest and 2 tablespoons of juice for brightness.
Fresh Dill: Two tablespoons, chopped, lend a herbaceous note.
Dijon Mustard: One tablespoon brings a kick of flavor.
Garlic: One minced clove adds depth.
Kosher Salt: A ¼ teaspoon will help balance the dressings’ flavors.

Each ingredient plays a vital role, ensuring this salad is not just nutritious but also bursting with flavor. Ready to dive in? Let's look at the preparation next!

Preparing Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Are you in the mood for a fresh, flavorful dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner? This Cucumber Shrimp Salad is not only vibrant and delicious, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the steps to create this refreshing meal!

Gather your ingredients

First things first, you’ll want to gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you will need for your Cucumber Shrimp Salad:

2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 English cucumber, small diced
3 green onions, thinly sliced
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
1 large lime (for zesting and juicing)
Fresh dill
Dijon mustard
Garlic
Kosher salt

Having everything in one place makes the process so much easier, and it allows you to enjoy cooking without the stress!

Whip up the creamy lime dressing

Now, let’s create the creamy lime dressing that will elevate your salad to the next level! In a mixing bowl, combine ⅓ cup mayonnaise, ⅓ cup sour cream, the zest and juice of your lime (about two teaspoons of zest and two tablespoons of juice), two tablespoons of chopped fresh dill, one tablespoon of Dijon mustard, one minced garlic clove, and a pinch of kosher salt.

Stir it well until all the ingredients are fully blended. If you have a few minutes to spare, consider placing the dressing in the fridge to let the flavors meld – it just gets better with time!

Cook the shrimp to perfection

It’s time to cook your shrimp! Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and toss in the shrimp. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a lovely pink color. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them. Once they’re ready, you’ll want to handle them quickly as they don’t benefit from stewing!

Prepare the ice water bath

While your shrimp are cooking, prepare an ice water bath. This method stops the cooking process and helps the shrimp maintain that juicy tenderness. Fill a large bowl with ice and cold water. Use a skimmer to transfer the shrimp to the ice bath and let them cool for about 3 minutes. Afterward, drain them in a colander and chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Combine everything for a fresh salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine your chopped shrimp, diced cucumber, sliced green onions, and the creamy lime dressing you made earlier. Stir gently until everything is coated beautifully. The result? A refreshing and satisfying Cucumber Shrimp Salad that’s perfect on its own or served atop a bed of leafy greens.

Enjoy this salad fresh, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends or enjoy it for lunch throughout the week. Trust me, once you make this Cucumber Shrimp Salad, it’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation!

Variations on Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Add some spice with jalapeños

If you're craving a kick in your Cucumber Shrimp Salad, fresh jalapeños are the way to go! Chop them finely and mix them in for that zesty heat. Not only do they add flavor, but they also bring a nice crunch to the salad. For a milder alternative, try roasting the jalapeños first or use pickled jalapeños for a tangy twist.

Try a Mediterranean twist with olives and feta

For a flavorful Mediterranean flair, toss in some Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese. The briny olives complement the shrimp beautifully, while the feta adds creaminess. This variation makes each bite of your Cucumber Shrimp Salad feel like a vacation in the Mediterranean! Consider pairing it with a light rosé or sparkling water for a refreshing meal.

Feel free to experiment with these suggestions, and don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine!

Cooking Tips for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Creating the perfect Cucumber Shrimp Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If possible, buy them from a local fish market. Fresh cucumbers and herbs will bring out the vibrant taste of the salad.
Chill Your Ingredients: For a refreshing experience, chill your shrimp and vegetables before mixing them together. This helps enhance the overall crunch and coolness of the salad.
Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to tweak the creamy lime dressing to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne for a kick or substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Presentation Matters: Serve your salad in a chilled bowl. Garnishing with extra dill or lime zest adds a nice touch.

These simple tips can make a world of difference in your Cucumber Shrimp Salad!

Serving suggestions for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Ready to elevate your Cucumber Shrimp Salad experience? This refreshing dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes!

Serve it chilled: For a delightful twist, refrigerate the salad before serving. It enhances the flavors and is perfect for hot days.
On a bed of greens: Consider serving the salad on a crisp bed of mixed salad greens or arugula. This adds a nutritious crunch that complements the creamy dressing.
Fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped dill or cilantro on top for added flavor. These herbs enhance the Cucumber Shrimp Salad and make it visually appealing.
Crackers or bread: Pair the salad with whole-grain crackers or slices of toasted baguette. The crunchiness balances the creaminess of the dish.

Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

Time details for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Preparation time
Whipping up this Cucumber Shrimp Salad takes about 10 minutes. It’s quick, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Cooking time
You’ll need 3 minutes to cook the shrimp. Their vibrant pink color will let you know when they’re perfectly done!

Total time
In just 13 minutes, from start to finish, you’ll have a refreshing and flavorful salad that’s sure to impress!

Ready to enjoy a bite? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Nutritional Information for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

When it comes to refreshing choices, Cucumber Shrimp Salad stands out not only for its flavor but also for its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick look at what you get in each serving:

Calories

This delightful salad packs approximately 349 calories, making it a perfect light meal option.

Protein

Packed with 32 grams of protein, the shrimp provide a substantial amount of this essential nutrient, supporting muscle health and satiety.

Sodium

Be mindful of the salt; this recipe contains about 1,598 milligrams of sodium. If you’re watching your intake, consider reducing the added salt or opting for low-sodium mayonnaise.

For more information on the health benefits of shrimp, check out this health article. It’s a great way to fuel your fitness while enjoying the bright, vibrant flavors of this salad!

FAQs about Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! The creamy lime dressing for your Cucumber Shrimp Salad can be made in advance. It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a couple of hours, as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh!

What if I don’t have fresh dill?
No worries! If fresh dill is unavailable, you can easily substitute it with dried dill. Use about one tablespoon of dried dill for every two tablespoons of fresh. Alternatively, other herbs like cilantro or parsley could lend a fresh flavor to your salad, though they’ll change the profile slightly.

How long can I store leftovers?
You can enjoy your Cucumber Shrimp Salad leftovers for up to 2 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Just remember that the cucumbers will start to release water, so give it a quick stir before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Conclusion on Cucumber Shrimp Salad

In conclusion, this Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors and creamy lime dressing, it truly stands out. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply enjoying a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress! Don't miss out on trying it.