This refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a treat for your taste buds! With juicy shrimp and crisp cucumbers, it’s light yet satisfying. The zesty dressing adds a fun kick!
I love making this salad when I want something healthy that doesn’t take much time. Just mix everything together, and you have a lovely dish ready to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well! If using frozen, make sure to thaw them first. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, cooked chicken or canned chickpeas are good alternatives for protein.
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are perfect since they’re crunchy and have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, try Persian cucumbers. For a twist, you could use zucchini.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang. If you’re dairy-free, use coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt for a similar texture. For a lighter option, you can reduce the amount or swap it out for low-fat sour cream.
Fresh Dill: Dill gives a fresh, herby flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley or cilantro can be used instead. Dried dill can work too, just remember that it’s more concentrated, so use about one-third of what you would fresh.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp is quick and easy, but timing is key! Here’s how I do it to ensure they’re tender and juicy:
- Start with a large pot of boiling salted water; this helps flavor the shrimp.
- Once the shrimp are added, watch closely. Cook for just 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Drain immediately and cool under cold running water or in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Perfectly cooked shrimp will be tender, not rubbery, so stay attentive during cooking!
How to Make Cucumber Shrimp Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Seafood:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Vegetables:
- 2 medium cucumbers, diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (or more to taste)
- Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber shrimp salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional chilling time of 20 minutes in the refrigerator. So, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. This means they are cooked! Afterward, drain the shrimp and let them cool for a moment.
2. Prepare the Vegetable Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, chopped green onions, and fresh dill. This will add a nice crunch and flavor to your salad.
3. Make the Dressing:
In another bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy dressing will bring all the ingredients together beautifully.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Add the cooled shrimp to the bowl with the cucumber mixture. Then pour the yogurt dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together until well combined. It’s important to do this carefully so the shrimp don’t get mushy!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place the salad in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make the salad extra tasty.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. You can garnish it with some extra dill or lime wedges for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Once thawed, cook them just like fresh shrimp!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt or a sour cream alternative. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a dairy-free yogurt made from coconut or almond milk. Just note that the flavor may vary slightly!
How Can I Store Leftover Cucumber Shrimp Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving. It’s best consumed fresh but can still be delicious the next day!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like diced avocados, bell peppers, or even some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor. Just adjust the quantities to maintain a good balance in the salad!
