Name: Delicious Shrimp Salad Recipe for a Refreshing Summer Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 pound medium shrimp (cooked, peeled, and chilled); 2 ribs celery (diced); 1 stalk green onion (finely diced); 2 hard boiled eggs (finely diced); 1/2 English cucumber (finely diced); 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning; 1 1/2 teaspoons whole grain Dijon mustard; salt (to taste); pepper (to taste)

As the sun heats up and summer days stretch long, nothing satisfies quite like a bowl of refreshing goodness. That’s where my Shrimp Salad Recipe comes in—a delightful mix of tender shrimp and crisp veggies, married together with a creamy dressing that brings a burst of flavor to every bite. Not only is it high in protein and low in carbs, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious eaters, but it also whips up in just 15 minutes! Whether you’re looking to liven up your lunch or impress a crowd at a backyard barbecue, this versatile salad can be served on its own, as a sandwich filling, or even as a dip with crunchy chips. Doesn’t that sound like the ideal summer dish? Let’s dive into the details of how to create this easy, delicious shrimp salad that will keep you coming back for more!

Why is this shrimp salad a must-try?

Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can create a dish that feels like it belongs in a gourmet restaurant!

Refreshing Flavor: This salad bursts with freshness from the dill and lemon, making every bite a delightful experience.

Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on a bed of greens, as a sandwich filling, or with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun twist.

Health Conscious: With high protein and low carbs, it’s an ideal choice for those watching their diet.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for summer picnics or family gatherings, this shrimp salad will impress even the pickiest eaters. It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional heavy dishes!

If you’re looking for more summer inspirations, try pairing this dish with a delicious Fruit Salad Refreshing or spicy Shrimp Tacos for a complete meal!

Shrimp Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Medium shrimp (1 pound) – Make sure shrimp is cooked, peeled, and chilled for the best texture.
• Celery (2 ribs, diced) – This adds a nice crunch; feel free to substitute with bell peppers for a different flavor.
• Green onion (1 stalk, finely diced) – Provides a mild sharpness; chives work as a great alternative if you need a substitute.
• Hard boiled eggs (2, finely diced) – These add richness and protein; omit for a lighter version if preferred.
• English cucumber (½, finely diced) – Offers a refreshing crunch; regular cucumber could also be used.
• Fresh dill (1 tablespoon, chopped) – Infuses the salad with lovely herbal notes; if using dried dill, use less than fresh.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon) – Gives a fresh brightness and balances the flavors impeccably.

For the Creamy Dressing
• Mayonnaise (½ cup) – This creates a creamy base; Greek yogurt acts as a lighter option for those seeking a healthier twist.
• Old Bay Seasoning (½ teaspoon) – Adds a classic seafood flavor; celery salt and paprika together can be a suitable substitute.
• Whole grain Dijon mustard (1½ teaspoons) – Brings tanginess and depth to the dressing; regular Dijon can be used too.
• Salt and pepper – Taste and adjust to your preference for seasoning.

Whip up this shrimp salad recipe and revel in its freshness combined with protein-packed goodness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Shrimp Salad with Old Bay and Dill

Step 1: Chop the Shrimp
Start by taking your cooked, peeled, and chilled medium shrimp and chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity for a pleasing texture in your shrimp salad. This process should take about 3 minutes. Set the chopped shrimp aside in a clean mixing bowl while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Next, finely dice the celery, green onion, and cucumber. Aim for small, even pieces, which should take about 5 minutes. Place the chopped vegetables into the mixing bowl with the shrimp. They will add crunch and freshness to your creamy shrimp salad, enhancing every bite with a delightful texture.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Whisk the mixture thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes until it’s smooth and well-blended. This creamy dressing will bind your salad together and infuse it with flavors, creating a delicious contrast with the crunchy vegetables.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold the prepared dressing into the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Use a spatula to ensure everything is evenly coated, taking care not to over-mix, which could break apart the shrimp. This process should take about 2 minutes. You want to see the vibrant colors of the veggies and shrimp shine through!

Step 5: Season and Adjust
Taste your shrimp salad and adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper as needed. Mix gently for another minute to incorporate the seasonings. This crucial step will enhance the overall flavor, ensuring every forkful of your shrimp salad is perfectly seasoned and delightful.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, serve your creamy shrimp salad on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or alongside tortilla chips. Take a moment to appreciate the colorful presentation and creamy texture. This refreshing shrimp salad is perfect for summer dining, and you can enjoy it chilled for the best flavors, ready in just 15 minutes.

What to Serve with Creamy Shrimp Salad with Old Bay and Dill

As you relish the vibrant flavors of this delightful shrimp salad, consider how to round out your meal with complementary dishes that elevate your dining experience.

Crispy Potato Wedges: These baked potatoes add a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy shrimp salad. Perfect for dipping into the extra dressing!
Garlic Butter Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears sautéed in garlic butter offer a light, fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the salad. Their vibrant color brightens up your plate too.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with cherry tomatoes and cucumber provides a nutty flavor and chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the shrimp. It’s nutritious, too!
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of freshly squeezed lemonade or homemade iced tea infuses a zesty sparkle that complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness, making your meal feel like summer.
Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on crusty bread brings a new layer of richness to your meal, harmonizing wonderfully with the bright notes from the shrimp salad.
Fruit Salad Medley: Sweet fruits like strawberries, melons, and blueberries offer a refreshing burst to cleanse the palate between bites, reinforcing the fresh, summer vibe of your shrimp dish.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a crisp, crunchy element and a touch of acidity that cuts through the creaminess, making every bite a delightful experience.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors of your shrimp salad, elevating your dining experience with a touch of elegance.
Chocolate Mousse: To wrap up a delightful meal, a light chocolate mousse offers decadence without feeling heavy, creating a perfect sweet contrast after savoring the salad.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky grilled corn adds a comforting, summery touch, completing the experience with its delightful flavors that resonate well with shrimp.

Shrimp Salad Recipe Variations

Feel free to explore these fun twists to make your shrimp salad truly your own!

Greek Yogurt Swap: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter version that still feels creamy. This not only reduces calories but also boosts protein – perfect for summer days!
Avocado Add-In: Diced avocado brings a delicious creaminess and healthy fats, transforming your shrimp salad into a nutrient powerhouse. It enhances the texture and flavor beautifully, giving an indulgent feel without the extra calories.
Crunchy Bell Peppers: Incorporate diced bell peppers for vibrant color and a satisfying crunch; it adds a sweet, fresh flavor that complements the shrimp and dressing nicely.
Spicy Kick: Want some heat? Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your salad an exciting fiery touch. Perfect for spicy food lovers!
Herb Blend: Experiment with fresh herbs! Swap dill for tarragon or parsley for a fresh, vibrant flavor that changes the whole profile of your salad.
Tropical Bliss: Add diced mango or pineapple for a tropical flair, balancing the savory shrimp with a pop of sweetness – it’s like a vacation in a bowl!
Nuts for Crunch: Sprinkle in some toasted nuts, like sliced almonds or chopped walnuts, for an extra crunch that complements the creaminess and adds some healthy fats.

If these variations inspire your culinary creativity, you might also want to explore an enticing Cajun Pasta with Shrimp for a flavorful twist or enjoy alongside a light and refreshing Quinoa Chickpea Salad for a robust meal!

Expert Tips for Shrimp Salad

Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp that is caught wild, if possible. Frozen shrimp can work too, but thaw properly for the best texture in your shrimp salad recipe.
Chill Ingredients: Keep all ingredients chilled before mixing to maintain a refreshing flavor and texture, especially the shrimp.
Don’t Over-Mix: Gently fold ingredients to keep the shrimp pieces whole. Over-mixing can result in a mushy texture in your shrimp salad.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Every brand of Old Bay seasoning can differ, so adjust salt and pepper to your preference to perfect your shrimp salad.
Add a Crunch: For an extra textural dimension, consider adding diced bell peppers or nuts, which give a delightful crunch and boost the nutrition of your shrimp salad.
Boost Freshness: A splash of extra lemon juice right before serving brightens up flavors immensely, making your shrimp salad even more delicious.

Storage Tips for Shrimp Salad

Fridge: Store leftover shrimp salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Add a splash of lemon juice before serving to refresh flavors.

Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing shrimp salad as the creamy dressing may separate upon thawing, affecting texture and flavor.

Reheating: Enjoy this shrimp salad cold for the best taste. If needed, gently stir in a bit of mayo or yogurt to restore creaminess after refrigeration.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the shrimp salad out for more than 2 hours, especially on hot days, to ensure food safety and quality.

Make Ahead Options

These creamy shrimp salad preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can chop the shrimp and vegetables, and mix the dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the separate components for freshness. When you’re ready to serve, gently fold the prepped shrimp and veggies together with the dressing. This keeps the salad crisp and vibrant, ensuring each bite is just as delicious as when freshly made. To maintain quality, store the shrimp salad in an airtight container and consume within 3 days for optimal flavor and texture. Enjoy the convenience of having this refreshing shrimp salad ready for any occasion!

Creamy Shrimp Salad with Old Bay and Dill Recipe FAQs

What shrimp should I use for the best flavor and texture?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh, medium-sized shrimp if you can find it. Look for shrimp that has a sweet scent of the sea without any strong fishy odor. If using frozen shrimp, ensure it’s fully thawed before prep for the best texture in your shrimp salad.

How should I store leftover shrimp salad?
Very good question! Store your leftover shrimp salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors fresh, add a splash of lemon juice before serving again. This little tip will brighten it right back up!

Can I freeze shrimp salad?
I would advise against freezing shrimp salad. The creamy dressing may separate when thawed, affecting the overall texture and flavor. Plus, shrimp salads are best enjoyed fresh, making this a quick dish you can whip up whenever needed!

What should I do if my shrimp salad is too watery?
If you find your shrimp salad turned out runny, fear not! You can remedy this by adding more chopped vegetables like celery or cucumber, which will help absorb excess moisture. Alternatively, mix in a bit more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to bind everything together, thickening up the dressing overall.

Are there any dietary considerations when making shrimp salad?
Indeed! This shrimp salad recipe is friendly for most diets, being low-carb and high-protein. However, if you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious with ingredients such as shrimp, eggs, and the mayonnaise. Always read labels to check for common allergens and adjust accordingly!

Can I make shrimp salad in advance for a gathering?
Yes, absolutely! You can prepare your shrimp salad up to 1 day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator in a tight-sealed container. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly, enhancing the taste, while keeping everything nice and fresh until it’s time to serve.