Name: Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 each English cucumber (small diced); 3 each green onions (thinly sliced); ⅓ cup mayonnaise; ⅓ cup sour cream; 1 large lime (zested and juiced (about 2 teaspoons zest and 2 tablespoons juice)); 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic (minced); ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Cucumber Shrimp Salad

If you're looking for a refreshing dish that effortlessly balances flavor and nutrition, consider making a Cucumber Shrimp Salad. This light yet satisfying meal is perfect for warm days or when you need a quick and healthy option. Packed with protein from the shrimp and hydrating qualities from the cucumbers, this salad is a great way to nourish your body while tantalizing your taste buds.

Why Choose Cucumber Shrimp Salad for Your Next Meal?

Health Benefits: Shrimp is a fantastic source of lean protein, providing essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids that are crucial for heart health. Coupled with the high-water content of cucumbers, this salad helps keep you hydrated.
Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a cook time of only 10 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into the busy schedules of young professionals. It’s a no-fuss meal you can throw together after a long day at work.
Versatile and Flavorful: The creamy lime dressing brings brightness and zest, making it not just a meal, but an experience. You can also customize it with your favorite toppings or serve it alongside some crusty bread for a more filling option.

So, whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this Cucumber Shrimp Salad is bound to impress. For more inspiration, check out sources like Healthline for the benefits of incorporating seafood into your diet.

Ingredients for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Fresh Ingredients for Flavor and Nutrition

When it comes to crafting a delightful Cucumber Shrimp Salad, the right ingredients can transform a simple dish into something extraordinary. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

Juicy Shrimp: Start with 2 pounds of peeled and deveined shrimp. They bring not only protein but also that ocean-fresh flavor that makes this salad shine. Be sure to choose sustainable shrimp, as this not only supports healthy seafood practices but also tastes better! Learn more about sustainable seafood here.
Crisp Cucumbers: Use 1 English cucumber, diced small. This variety is perfect for salads; it’s crunchy and has fewer seeds compared to other types.
Green Onions & Fresh Dill: Add 3 thinly sliced green onions and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill for those aromatic, herby notes that brighten up the dish.
Creamy Lime Dressing: The dressing is the star of this salad, consisting of ⅓ cup mayonnaise, ⅓ cup sour cream, zest and juice of 1 large lime, Dijon mustard, garlic, and a pinch of salt. This zesty mix balances the freshness of the veggies and shrimp perfectly.

Each ingredient contributes unique flavors and essential nutrients, making this salad not just delicious but nutritious too!

Preparing Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Creating a refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a straightforward and enjoyable process. With just a few simple steps, you can prepare a dish that will impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Gather Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all the necessary ingredients for your Cucumber Shrimp Salad. Here’s a handy list to get you started:

2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 English cucumber, small diced
3 green onions, thinly sliced

For the Creamy Lime Dressing:

⅓ cup mayonnaise
⅓ cup sour cream
1 large lime (zested and juiced, around 2 teaspoons zest and 2 tablespoons juice)
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
¼ teaspoon kosher salt

These ingredients are not only fresh but also provide a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Make the Creamy Lime Dressing

The dressing is what truly elevates this salad. To whip it up, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest and juice, dill, Dijon mustard, garlic, and salt in a medium bowl. Mix everything until it’s wonderfully smooth and creamy. Pro tip: Allow the dressing to chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes, as this helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you're curious about the health benefits of using fresh herbs like dill, check out this study on herbs in cuisine that demonstrates their positive effects.

Cook the Shrimp to Perfection

Next, it’s time to cook the shrimp. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the shrimp. Cook them for just 2-3 minutes until they turn a lovely pink color and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them; shrimp can become rubbery if cooked too long.

Prepare the Ice Water Bath

While your shrimp are cooking, it’s essential to prepare an ice water bath. This quick step stops the cooking process, ensuring your shrimp remain tender. Fill a bowl with ice water, and once the shrimp are done, transfer them directly into the bath using a skimmer. Let them sit for about 3 minutes, then drain and chop them into bite-sized pieces. This trick not only keeps the shrimp tender but maintains that delightful chill.

Combine Shrimp, Cucumbers, and Dressing

With all your components ready, it’s time to mix it all together. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, diced cucumbers, thinly sliced green onions, and your delicious creamy dressing. Gently fold the ingredients until they’re evenly coated. Your Cucumber Shrimp Salad is now ready to serve! Whether as a light dinner or a lunch option, this salad brings vibrant colors and tastes to your table, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Delicious Variations on Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Add Some Heat with Jalapeños

If you're looking to spice up your Cucumber Shrimp Salad, consider adding diced jalapeños! They bring a delightful kick that complements the creamy lime dressing beautifully. For the best results, start with just a small amount and adjust to your heat preference. You could even use pickled jalapeños for a tangy twist. Adding a touch of heat makes this salad perfect for summer barbecues or as a zesty appetizer at dinner parties.

Go Tropical with Pineapple

For a refreshing, tropical take, incorporate diced pineapple into your Cucumber Shrimp Salad. The sweetness of the pineapple contrasts with the savory shrimp and crunchy cucumbers, creating a flavor explosion that transports your tastebuds to a sunny beach. Fresh pineapple is ideal, but canned can also work in a pinch. Top it off with fresh cilantro for an added burst of freshness. This variation is not only delicious but also a great conversation starter at any gathering!

Explore more twists on this classic dish to impress your friends and family. What unique ingredients would you add?

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When crafting your Cucumber Shrimp Salad, the freshness of your ingredients is crucial. Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also have a firmer texture compared to frozen options. Look for shrimp that feel firm and smell mildly oceanic—these are signs of freshness. Similarly, crisp cucumbers and vibrant herbs like dill make all the difference in flavor. For some great tips on selecting fresh produce, check out the USDA's guidelines.

How to Achieve the Perfect Shrimp Texture

To ensure your shrimp are succulent and not rubbery, cooking them just right is vital. Bring salted water to a rolling boil and toss in the shrimp; they only need 2 to 3 minutes to turn pink. Immediately transfer them to an ice water bath to halt the cooking process. This little trick keeps them tender while preventing overcooking, making your Cucumber Shrimp Salad delightful with every bite!

Serving Suggestions for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Pairing Ideas with Homemade Bread

Serve your Cucumber Shrimp Salad with slices of freshly baked homemade bread for a delightful, fulfilling meal. A crusty sourdough or fluffy ciabatta beautifully complements the freshness of the salad. You could even make a simple garlic toast or herb-infused focaccia, enhancing the overall flavor. This combination makes for an easy brunch or light dinner, perfect for those busy weeknights.

Perfect Side Dishes to Complement the Salad

To elevate your Cucumber Shrimp Salad experience, consider light side dishes such as a refreshing quinoa salad or steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon. For an added crunch, you might enjoy a simple mixed greens salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette. These sides not only enhance the meal but also keep it vibrant and nutritious. For a sweet finish, serve seasonal fruit like watermelon or cantaloupe, balancing the savory notes of the shrimp.

Time Breakdown for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Preparation Time

This refreshingly light Cucumber Shrimp Salad requires about 20 minutes to get everything prepped. You'll want to take your time here to finely chop those ingredients and achieve that perfect creamy dressing.

Cooking Time

As for cooking, it’s a quick 10 minutes. Just boil the shrimp until they’re beautifully pink, and you're on your way to a delicious dish!

Total Time

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a tasty, nutritious meal ready to enjoy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lunch gathering with friends!

If you're looking for more ideas on quick seafood recipes, check out Seafood Nutrition Partnership for inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Understanding the nutritional profile of your meals can significantly improve your healthy eating habits. Here’s a quick look at the Cucumber Shrimp Salad.

Calories

This refreshing salad contains approximately 349 calories per serving, making it a satisfying and light choice for a meal.

Protein

Packed with 32 grams of protein, the shrimp in this salad not only boosts flavor but also supports muscle health and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.

Sodium

Keep an eye on your sodium intake; this salad has about 1,598 mg of sodium per serving. If you're watching your sodium levels, consider using low-sodium alternatives in the dressing.

For further insights into the benefits of shrimp and how to incorporate more fresh ingredients into your diet, you can check resources like the USDA's nutrition information (USDA) or the Harvard School of Public Health (Harvard Health). Enjoy your cooking!

FAQ about Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using frozen shrimp is a convenient option if you don’t have fresh shrimp on hand. Just make sure to thaw them safely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking. This ensures that they cook evenly and maintain their tasty texture.

What if I don't have dill?

No problem! If dill isn't available, you can substitute it with other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Each herb brings its unique flavor, but they can beautifully complement the Cucumber Shrimp Salad. You might also consider using a pinch of dried dill as an alternative.

How long can I store leftover salad?

Leftover Cucumber Shrimp Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, try to enjoy it within a day. The dressing may thicken over time, so give it a good stir before serving!

For more tips on storing seafood, check out this guide.

Conclusion on Cucumber Shrimp Salad

This Cucumber Shrimp Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients ideal for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and easy preparation, it's perfect for summer gatherings or a light weeknight dinner. Enjoy experimenting with variations—it's bound to impress!