Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

This creamy cucumber shrimp salad is a refreshing dish that perfectly balances tender shrimp with crisp cucumbers and a tangy dressing. Ideal for a light lunch or as a side dish, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress with its vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, cooked and peeled
• 2 cucumbers, sliced (about 2 cups)
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked shrimp, sliced cucumbers, and red onion to the bowl. Gently mix to coat all ingredients with the dressing.
3. Season and Toss: Sprinkle the chopped dill over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the salad lightly to evenly distribute the dill and seasoning.
4. Chill: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve: Serve cold and enjoy this refreshing and creamy salad!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 35 minutes in total to prepare and chill, including 10 minutes of prep time and 5 minutes of cooking time.

Variations

• Herb Variations: Substitute dill with fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Additions: Incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, avocados, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the dressing for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, frozen shrimp can be used; just ensure they are fully cooked and thawed before preparation.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
   Yes, all the ingredients used in this salad are gluten-free.
3. Can I make this salad in advance?
   Yes, it can be made a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
4. What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
   You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if preferred.
5. How can I add more protein?
   You can include additional shrimp or other protein like crab meat or diced chicken.
6. What type of shrimp should I use?
   Use any cooked shrimp, whether wild-caught or farm-raised, depending on your preference.
7. Can I use a different dressing?
   Absolutely! You can try a vinaigrette or a store-bought seafood dressing for a different taste.
8. Is this salad good for meal prep?
   While it can be prepared ahead of time, the cucumbers may release water over time, so it’s best enjoyed within a day or two.
9. How can I make it lighter?
   You can reduce the mayonnaise or substitute it with additional Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
10. Can I add fruit?
    Yes, adding fruits like diced mango or pineapple can bring a sweet twist to the salad.

Conclusion

The creamy cucumber shrimp salad is a delightful and versatile dish that combines simplicity with taste. Its fresh ingredients and creamy dressing make it a go-to recipe for gatherings or a quick lunch. Enjoy the cool, refreshing flavors that this salad has to offer, and feel free to customize it to suit your preferences!

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