Name: Cucumber Shrimp Salad: A Refreshing High-Protein Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Cooked Shrimp (Thawed, peeled, and deveined); 2 cups Cucumbers (Thinly sliced); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Halved); 1 small Red Onion (Thinly sliced); 1 medium Avocado (Diced just before adding); 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill (Can substitute with parsley); 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (Can substitute with basil); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 cup Mayonnaise (Can substitute with Greek yogurt or vegan mayo); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Can substitute with Greek yogurt); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Fresh juice preferred); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Can use yellow mustard); 1 clove Garlic (Minced); 1 teaspoon Honey (Can omit for lower-carb)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Stepping into my kitchen, I felt an unexpected excitement as the sun streamed through the window, illuminating the vibrant ingredients waiting to come together. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad, a delightful mix of refreshing crunch and creamy goodness that’s both easy to make and a real showstopper. Perfect for warm days or whenever you’re craving something light yet satisfying, this salad is not only low-carb but also packed with protein to keep you energized. The best part? It’s versatile—whether you’re accommodating dietary needs with clever substitutions or keeping it classic, this dish has you covered. Curious how such lively flavors can come together so effortlessly? Let’s dive in!

Why is Cucumber Shrimp Salad a must-try?

Bursting with flavor, this Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad combines refreshing ingredients that make each bite a delight. Nutritious and fulfilling, it’s low-carb and high-protein, perfect for anyone watching their diet. Customizable at heart, enjoy swapping shrimp for chicken or chickpeas for a healthy twist. Simple to prepare, you’ll impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it chilled for a delightful appetizer or a light main dish, and don’t forget to check out our Egg Pasta Salad for another refreshing option!

Cucumber Shrimp Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Cooked Shrimp – Provides lean protein and mild sweetness; use thawed, peeled, and deveined shrimp for convenience.
• Cucumbers – Adds hydration and crunch; slice thinly for the best texture.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Contributes sweetness and color; halve for even distribution in the salad.
• Red Onion – Offers a pungent bite and color contrast; slice thinly to prevent overpowering flavors.
• Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats; dice just before adding to prevent browning.
• Fresh Dill – Imparts a unique herbal flavor; substitute with fresh parsley or other herbs if desired.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and color; can be swapped with basil for a different flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – Acts as the base for the creamy dressing; replace with Greek yogurt or vegan mayo for a lighter option.
• Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess; substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish and adds acidity; fresh juice is preferable for the best flavor.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds depth and a slight tang; use yellow mustard for a milder flavor.
• Garlic Clove – Provides aromatic flavor; adjust based on preference.
• Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness; omit for a lower-carb version or substitute with agave syrup.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by washing the cucumbers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cool water. Slice the cucumbers thinly and dice the avocado, adding them to a large salad bowl as you work. Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them, along with the thinly sliced red onion, ensuring a beautiful colorful mix for your Cucumber Shrimp Salad.

Step 2: Add the Shrimp
Next, gently incorporate the cooked shrimp into the salad bowl filled with fresh vegetables. Sprinkle freshly chopped dill and parsley over the mixture, enhancing the flavor profile. Season with salt and pepper to taste and carefully toss the salad to combine all ingredients, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey until completely smooth. The creamy dressing should be well-blended and creamy without any lumps. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste to perfectly complement the Cucumber Shrimp Salad.

Step 4: Combine and Serve
Once your dressing is ready, pour it generously over the salad and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Take a moment to taste, and adjust seasonings if necessary. As you mix, admire the vibrant colors blending together in your refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish
To allow the flavors to meld beautifully, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chill time enhances the overall taste. Just before serving, garnish with extra herbs for a lovely touch and a burst of freshness that complements the salad beautifully.

Step 6: For Extra Flavor
For an additional flavor boost, consider adding a splash more lemon juice or a sprinkle of paprika for a hint of warmth. This minor adjustment elevates your Cucumber Shrimp Salad to a delightful experience, making it even more enticing for your guests or family.

Expert Tips for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Select Quality Shrimp: Always use high-quality, cooked shrimp for the best flavor. Fresh or sustainably sourced shrimp yields superior taste and texture.
Perfect Veggie Prep: To maintain ideal crunchiness, slice cucumbers just before assembling the salad. This prevents them from becoming too watery.
Dressing Timing: Add the creamy dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crispy. This ensures a delightful eating experience.
Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with herbs! Try using fresh basil or mint instead of dill for a unique flavor twist in your Cucumber Shrimp Salad.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings during preparation. A little extra salt, pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon can elevate the dish significantly.
Storage Best Practices: If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in the fridge to maintain texture and freshness. Enjoy within two days!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments on busy weeknights! You can chop the cucumbers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crunch. If you’re using avocado, dice it just before serving to prevent browning. The creamy dressing can be made 3 days ahead and stored separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine the prepped vegetables and cooked shrimp, toss them with the chilled dressing, and garnish with fresh herbs for a quick, delicious meal that’s just as satisfying as when it was freshly made.

What to Serve with Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Dive into an array of delightful pairings that elevate your shrimp salad experience to a full meal.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for scooping, offering a satisfying contrast to the salad’s texture. This pairing will give you that comforting feeling, inviting you to savor each bite.
Quinoa: Fluffy, nutty quinoa not only adds protein but also complements the flavors and textures of the shrimp salad beautifully. It serves as a wholesome base, making your meal even more nutritious.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc will enhance the refreshing flavors of your salad, while its acidity balances the creaminess of the dressing. This classic combination is sure to impress at your next gathering.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb, zucchini noodles offer a fresh, crunchy base that pairs seamlessly with the creamy shrimp. They soak up the dressing beautifully, reminiscent of a pasta dish without the guilt.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple side of mixed greens, lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette, adds brightness and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the shrimp salad. The crisp greens enhance each mouthful.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad brings a natural sweetness to the table, invigorating your palate between bites of the savory salad. The contrast of textures is truly refreshing.
Lemon-Dill Rice: Aromatic lemon-dill rice enriches the dining experience by adding a fragrant, zesty component that mirrors the flavors in the shrimp salad. This pairing creates a harmonious balance on your plate.
Garlic Butter Asparagus: Tender asparagus sautéed in garlic butter brings a delightful crunch and a savory depth that perfectly contrasts with the creamy elements of the salad.
Classic Iced Tea: A refreshing, unsweetened iced tea provides a cooling element that cleanses your palate between bites, allowing the flavors of the shrimp salad to shine.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a velvety chocolate mousse for dessert, offering a rich finish to your dining experience after the refreshing and light shrimp salad.

Cucumber Shrimp Salad Variations

Feel inspired to make this Cucumber Shrimp Salad your own with these delightful substitutions and adjustments!

Vegan Option: Swap shrimp for chickpeas or roasted tofu for a delicious plant-based version. This adds protein and a satisfying texture while keeping the salad light.
Herb Swap: Use fresh basil or cilantro instead of dill for a vibrant twist. Each herb brings its own unique flavor profile, enhancing your salad experience.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to your dressing for a spicy flair. This little kick can transform the whole dish into a zesty delight!
Crunchy Surprise: Throw in some toasted nuts or seeds, such as sunflower seeds or slivered almonds, for added crunch and healthy fats. They provide a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess.
Lower-Fat Dressing: Mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice and a splash of hot sauce as a lighter alternative to mayonnaise and sour cream. It’s creamy and full of flavor while cutting the calories.
Fruit Fusion: Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet tropical twist. The juicy sweetness complements the savory shrimp and creamy dressing beautifully.
Cold Pasta Addition: Stir in cooked quinoa or whole grain pasta for a more substantial meal. This can turn your appetizer into a filling main course—perfect for picnics!
Flavorful Seeds: Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top as a garnish for a nutty flavor and elegant touch. This simple addition can elevate the dish’s presentation and taste.

Try these variations to keep your Cucumber Shrimp Salad exciting and fresh, suited perfectly to your taste buds! And if you’d like more ideas that shake things up, consider taking a look at our Egg Pasta Salad or explore different flavor profiles as you cook. Happy experimenting!

How to Store and Freeze Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Fridge: Keep the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days to retain freshness. Avoid adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve for optimal texture.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze cucumber shrimp salad, as the vegetables may become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best served chilled to maintain the refreshing flavors and textures.

Leftovers: If you have leftover dressed salad, consume within 24 hours for the best taste, as the creamy dressing can make it soggy over time.

Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for the salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality, cooked shrimp that is either fresh, frozen, or sustainably sourced. I recommend using peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience. Thaw frozen shrimp under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes before using it in your salad.

How should I store leftover Cucumber Shrimp Salad?
Very! Place any leftover salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2 days, but I suggest adding the dressing just before serving to maintain the salad’s crisp texture.

Can I freeze Cucumber Shrimp Salad?
Not recommended! Freezing cucumber shrimp salad is not ideal as the vegetables can become mushy, losing their delightful crunch once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftover dressing, it can be frozen for up to 3 months, which you can use for another salad later.

What if my cucumbers are too watery?
If cucumbers start to release too much water, this usually happens when they are overripe. Slice cucumbers just before adding to the salad and consider removing the seeds or using a paper towel to pat them dry. This will help maintain a perfect crunch when mixed with the other fresh ingredients.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This salad contains seafood, dairy from the mayo and sour cream, and possibly honey for sweetness. If you’re cooking for guests, ask about allergies in advance. For a vegan version, substitute the shrimp with chickpeas or cooked chicken and replace the dairy with vegan mayonnaise or yogurt.

Can I make Cucumber Shrimp Salad dairy-free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, simply replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives like cashew cream or coconut yogurt. They provide a similar creaminess, ensuring that your Cucumber Shrimp Salad remains delicious and satisfying while accommodating dietary preferences!