Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

A light, refreshing, protein-packed salad combining tender shrimp, crisp cucumbers, and a creamy herb dressing. Perfect for summer lunches, quick dinners, or a healthy side dish. 🍤🥒

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced

  • ½ cup sour cream

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise

  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the vegetables

Slice the cucumbers thinly. If they are very watery, lightly sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry.

2️⃣ Make the creamy dressing

In a medium bowl combine:

  • sour cream

  • mayonnaise

  • lemon juice

  • lemon zest

  • dill

  • minced garlic

  • salt and pepper

Mix until smooth and well combined.

3️⃣ Combine the salad

Add the shrimp, cucumbers, and optional red onion to the bowl.

4️⃣ Toss gently

Mix until everything is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

5️⃣ Chill before serving

Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

6️⃣ Serve

Serve chilled as a light meal or side dish.

 Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Chill Time: 20 minutes

  • Total Time: 35 minutes

  • Servings: 4

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values

  • Calories: 230

  • Protein: 22 g

  • Fat: 14 g

  • Carbohydrates: 5 g

  • Fiber: 1 g

  • Sugar: 2 g

  • Sodium: 420 mg

 Health Benefits

Shrimp

  • High in protein

  • Low calorie seafood

  • Contains selenium and vitamin B12

Cucumber

  • Hydrating (over 90% water)

  • Supports digestion

  • Low in calories

Dill & Garlic

  • Natural antioxidants

  • May support immune health

 Recipe Notes

  • Use small or medium shrimp for best texture.

  • English cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds.

  • Fresh dill gives the best flavor.

 Tips for Best Results

✔ Chill the salad before serving for better flavor.
✔ Pat cucumbers dry to avoid watery dressing.
✔ Add avocado cubes for extra creaminess.
✔ Add cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness.
✔ For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

 Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs well with:

  • toasted bread

  • crackers

  • lettuce wraps

  • grilled vegetables

  • rice or quinoa bowls

 Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw them completely and pat dry before using.

Q: How long does this salad last?

It keeps 1–2 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes. Replace sour cream with dairy-free yogurt.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Try:

  • avocado

  • cherry tomatoes

  • bell peppers

  • celery

Q: Can I make it ahead?

Yes. Prepare it up to 4 hours ahead and keep refrigerated.

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