This Best Shrimp Salad is a refreshing mix of plump shrimp, crisp veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s great for warm days. I like to add a little extra lemon juice—it really brings out the flavors! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen shrimp works too! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. I find medium to large shrimp gives the best texture, but you can use smaller ones if that’s what you have.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is essential for a creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use avocado mash or even cottage cheese! I enjoy a mix of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for added creaminess and nutrition.
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but adds a nice tang. If you don’t have any, regular yogurt works too. You can even skip it altogether if you prefer it creamier.
Dill: Fresh dill gives a light, fresh flavor. If you can’t find fresh dill, dried dill will do, just use about 1/3 of the amount since it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, parsley can be a great substitute!
Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavor. If lemon isn’t available, lime juice can work as a substitute for a zesty twist!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp is super quick and easy, but it’s essential not to overcook them! Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to season the water.
- Add the shrimp and cook them for just 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them – they are done when they turn a bright pink and become opaque.
- Once done, drain the shrimp immediately and transfer them to a bowl to cool. This stops the cooking process.
Remember, shrimp will continue to cook slightly even after you remove them from the heat. So, it’s best to err on the side of caution and take them off right when they just turn pink!
How to Make Best Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)
- Crackers or bread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This shrimp salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. That’s right—just 15 minutes to boil the shrimp, mix the dressing, and toss everything together. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Start by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water, and then gently place the peeled and deveined shrimp into the pot. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes or until they are pink and opaque. Once they’re done, drain them and transfer the shrimp to a large bowl to cool. It’s okay if they are slightly warm; they will cool down while you prepare the dressing.
2. Make the Dressing:
While the shrimp are cooling, grab a separate bowl. In this bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), chopped dill, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together until well combined. This delicious dressing is what makes your salad creamy and flavorful!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Once the shrimp are cool, add them to the bowl with the dressing. Next, toss in the chopped celery, diced red bell pepper, and chopped green onions. Use a gentle stirring motion to coat all the ingredients with the dressing evenly. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor!
4. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to season your salad! Add salt and pepper according to your taste. Feel free to adjust the seasoning or add a bit more fresh dill if you love that flavor. Give it one last gentle stir.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your shrimp salad is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves for a nice presentation, or alongside some crunchy crackers or bread. Dig in and enjoy this fresh and delightful salad!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in your salad.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking to lighten the dish up, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a combination of both, as suggested in the recipe. For a dairy-free option, consider using avocado or a vegan mayonnaise. Just keep in mind this may change the flavor slightly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover shrimp salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat for the best texture. Just give everything a gentle stir before serving!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Of course! This salad is quite versatile. You can add ingredients like diced cucumbers, avocado, or even fruit like mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. Just remember to keep the balance in flavors and textures for the best results!
