cupcake-recipes.com

shrimp salad recipe

What is your favorite Shrimp Salad Recipe? What is your grandmother’s shrimp salad? Think classic flavors, but elevated with a touch of brightness and love. Is it creamy, tangy, packed with juicy shrimp, and surprisingly easy to whip up? If you love a good tuna salad sandwich, just wait ’til you taste this! Is it like the sophisticated cousin who just got back from a fancy vacation? I make it for quick lunches, potlucks and even fancy appetizers – it’s seriously versatile. I remember the first time I made it, I used way too much dill, but even then, it was a hit!

shrimp salad recipe final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is shrimp salad?

What is a shrimp salad? What are some of the best mayo recipes? It’s essentially a seafood salad that can be made to your own taste. Think of it as the blank canvas of the culinary world – you can keep it simple or get as fancy as you like. Is it just a salad? As a light and refreshing meal on its own. I grew up eating Canned Salmon, but the shrimp just elevates it to a new level.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What is a good shrimp salad recipe?

  • Flavor Explosion:The combination of sweet shrimp, crunchy celery, tangy lemon, and fresh dill creates a symphony of flavor. What are some of the best flavors to try? What is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and bright!
  • EffortlessWhat are some of the easiest recipes to make? What are some of the best recipes to prepare for a weeknight dinner? I can whip this up in under 15 minutes, which is a lifesaver when I’m short on time.
  • Budget-Friendly BWhat are some good ways to make a good salad with shrimp? What are some pantry staples that make this a good meal? I often buy shrimp when it’s on sale and freeze it for later use.
  • Versatile VibeWhat is a shrimp salad? Serve it on crackers as an appetizer, stuff it into a croissant for supper, or enjoy it with ice cream. What are some good healthy snacks that you can eat straight from the bowl? I love it on top of lettuce for a complete meal. I have even used it as a filling for avocado halves, so good!

What I love about this recipe is how customizable it is. What is the best way to substitute dill for parsley? What is the best way to add cayenne pepper to a meal? I like this Chicken Salad Recipe, but this one just feels a little more.

How do you make shrimp salad?

Quick Overview

How do you make a shrimp salad? How do you cook shrimp, chop veggies, mix everything together? What’s a creamy, flavorful dressing? What is the best way to cook shrimp? I promise, even if you’re a beginner cook, you can nail this recipe. What I love most about speed?

Ingredients

What is the recipe for Shrimp Salad?

  • 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (I prefer medium-sized, but any size will work)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (I always use full-fat mayo for the best flavor)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery (adds a nice crunch)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (for a little zing)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed is always best) ..
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a little tang)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-In

  • 1/4 cup chopped avocado (for extra creaminess)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (adds freshness) to a bowl.
  • 1 tablespoon capers (for a salty, briny flavor)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (for a little heat)

shrimp salad recipe ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

How do you follow

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

If you’re cooking raw shrimp, cook it first! I like to boil mine for about 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, or they’ll be rubbery. Once cooked, let them cool slightly and then chop them into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using pre-cooked shrimp, just give them a quick chop.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

Finely chop the celery and red onion. You want them to be small enough that they don’t overpower the shrimp, but still provide a nice crunch. I always soak my red onion in cold water for a few minutes to mellow out the flavor.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Set aside. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Where can I get creative and add my favorite seasonings? I’ve added garlic powder before and it was so good!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the chopped shrimp, celery, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir until everything is well combined. If you overmix the shrimp, it will become mushy.

Step 5: Chill (Optional, but Recommended)

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to set. This step is optional, but I find that the salad tastes even better after it’s had a chance to cool.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve the shrimp salad on crackers, in sandwiches, on lettuce, or whatever you like! Garnish with a little extra dill or lemon wedge and serve.

What should I serve it with?

This shrimp salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in so many different ways! Here are a few of my favorite options:

  • On Crackers:What is the best way to serve shrimp salad? I like to use a variety of crackers, like Ritz, Wheat Thins, or even some fancy water cracker. What is a good appetizer or snack?
  • In Sandwiches or Rolls:What is a good shrimp salad? I love it in a croissant or on toasted bread with some lettuce and tomato.
  • On Lettuce:For a light and healthy meal, serve the shrimp salad on top of lettuce. Is it good to add other veggies like carrots, cucumbers or kale for crunch?
  • In Avocado Halves: This is a fun and unexpected way to serve shrimp salad. Simply scoop out the pit from an avocado half and fill it with the shrimp salad. It’s a beautiful and delicious presentation!
  • With Pasta Salad: I always serve a scoop of shrimp salad next to a pasta salad. The flavors complement each other very well.

For a special touch, I love to serve this shrimp salad with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea. It’s perfect for a summer lunch or a light dinner. My family loves it for picnics and barbecues too! This has become a staple at family gatherings.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Shrimp Salad

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this shrimp Salad Recipe even better. Here are my top tips:

  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: This is the most important tip! Overcooked shrimp will be rubbery and tough. Cook it just until it turns pink and opaque. I prefer boiling, but you can also steam or grill the shrimp.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh dill, lemon juice, and celery will make a huge difference in the flavor of your salad. Avoid using dried dill if possible, as it doesn’t have the same bright flavor.
  • Finely Chop the Veggies: You want the celery and red onion to be finely chopped so they don’t overpower the shrimp. I use a food processor to make this step quick and easy.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing will make the shrimp mushy. Gently stir the ingredients together until they’re just combined.
  • Chill Before Serving: Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld and develop. I recommend chilling it for at least 30 minutes, but longer is even better.
  • Customize the Flavors: This recipe is a blank canvas! Feel free to add your own favorite ingredients and seasonings. Some of my favorite additions include avocado, capers, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. I once added some chopped jalapeno and it gave the salad a spicy kick that was really tasty.
  • Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or dill to suit your taste.

I’ve also found that the quality of the mayonnaise makes a big difference in the flavor of the salad. I always use full-fat mayo for the best flavor and texture. You can also use a light mayo or even Greek yogurt if you’re looking to cut down on calories, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover shrimp salad, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the shrimp may start to get a little mushy. Here’s how to store it properly:

  • Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving shrimp salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours. The mayonnaise can spoil quickly, especially in warm weather.
  • Refrigerator Storage: Store the shrimp salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I like to use a glass container, but plastic will also work. Make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent the salad from drying out.
  • Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing shrimp salad, as the mayonnaise can separate and become watery when thawed. The texture of the shrimp may also change.
  • Glaze Timing Advice: This recipe doesn’t have a glaze, but if you’re serving the shrimp salad on crackers or bread, I recommend adding the glaze just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftover shrimp salad, simply take it out of the refrigerator and give it a good stir. You can eat it cold or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to take the chill off. I usually just eat it straight from the container with a fork!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. I like to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a few hours ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld. It will taste even better the next day!
Can I use a different type of mustard?
Yes, you can use any type of mustard you like. Yellow mustard will give it a more classic flavor, while spicy brown mustard will add a little kick.
Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or carrots. Just make sure to chop them finely.
How long does shrimp salad last?
Shrimp salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

shrimp salad recipe slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

So, there you have it – my ultimate shrimp salad recipe! I truly believe that this is the best shrimp salad you’ll ever taste. It’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a party snack, it’s sure to be a hit. If you’re a seafood lover like me, you absolutely have to try this recipe. And if you enjoy this one, definitely check out my other seafood recipes – I have a killer crab Cake Recipe that you’ll love!

Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and feel free to share any variations you come up with. I’m always looking for new ideas!

No ratings yet

Shrimp Salad Recipe

A light and refreshing shrimp salad recipe, perfect for a summer lunch or light dinner. This recipe uses simple ingredients and is easy to prepare.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound Shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 0.5 cup Mayonnaise
  • 0.25 cup Celery, finely chopped
  • 0.25 cup Red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Cook shrimp until pink and opaque. Let cool completely.
  • Chop celery and red onion finely.
  • In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  • Add cooked shrimp, celery, and red onion to the bowl. Gently mix until combined.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

This salad is delicious served on crackers, bread, or lettuce cups. You can also add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or tomatoes.

Recipes Should You See

As Seen On:

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

as seen on:

as seen on:

Subscribe

Get my free protein Diet + Meal

Download My FREE Protein Meal Plan!

0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x