Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe
Hello, dear readers!
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure where we will be diving into the refreshing world of Cucumber Shrimp Salad. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish for a dinner party, this salad promises to deliver big on flavor and presentation. So, grab your aprons and let’s get started!
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Cucumber Shrimp Salad
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free (if feta is omitted)
Description
A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines crunchy cucumbers with succulent shrimp, perfect for a light lunch or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Avocado, diced
- Optional: Feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and place in an ice bath.
- While the shrimp cool, wash and slice the cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the red onion and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine shrimp, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and parsley. Drizzle dressing over and gently toss to combine.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary, and add avocado or feta if desired.
- Chill for about 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a plant-based option, substitute shrimp with tofu or chickpeas. This dish can be made ahead of time for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
A Taste of Freshness
Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a bright and enticing dish that perfectly balances crunchy, cool cucumbers with succulent shrimp, often dressed in a zesty vinaigrette. This salad is particularly popular in coastal regions, where fresh seafood takes center stage. One of my fondest memories is enjoying a similar dish at a seaside café, feeling the ocean breeze as I indulged in the refreshing flavors.
Its combination of textures and tastes makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing on any dining table, making it a perfect choice for summer gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting recipe Cucumber Shrimp Salad, you’ll need:
- 1 pound (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Avocado, diced (for added creaminess)
- Optional: Feta cheese, crumbled (for a tangy twist)
Note:
For those with dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute shrimp with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor and texture of the dish will change, offering a different yet satisfying experience.
How to Make Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Cucumber Shrimp Salad:
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are opaque, roughly 2-3 minutes.
- Drain the shrimp and place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set aside.
- Prep the Vegetables:
- While the shrimp are cooling, wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the red onion and parsley.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients without breaking the shrimp or over-mixing.
- Final Touches:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, add diced avocado or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Helpful Tips
Enhance Your Cucumber Shrimp Salad Experience
- Freshness Counts: Always opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp and vegetables. The freshness significantly enhances the overall taste of the salad.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a few hours in advance, making it ideal for entertaining or meal prep.
Cooking Tips
Elevate Your Cucumber Shrimp Salad
- Herb Variations: Try adding fresh dill or mint to give another layer of flavor to the dish.
- Dress It Up: Experiment with different dressings; a honey-mustard vinaigrette could add a sweet contrast.
- Equipment Suggestion: A food processor can make chopping vegetables quicker and ensure even sizes for a professional look.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing and Presentation
- Serve your Cucumber Shrimp Salad over a bed of mixed greens for additional texture and color.
- Complement this light dish with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing iced tea.
- For an appealing presentation, serve in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with lemon wedges.
Nutritional Information
Benefits Packed In Your Salad
This Cucumber Shrimp Salad is not only delicious but also nutritious!
- Calories: 290
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Potassium: 460mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 30%
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 8%
This salad provides an excellent source of protein from the shrimp and vitamins from the fresh vegetables, making it a well-rounded choice.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: To keep your Cucumber Shrimp Salad fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat: While this dish is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you have any leftover shrimp, consider sautéing them with vegetable oil for a delicious addition to another meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Common Queries on Cucumber Shrimp Salad
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
2. What can I substitute for shrimp?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or diced tofu are great alternatives.
3. How can I add more flavor?
A splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of seasoned salt can enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
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Conclusion
Share Your Culinary Adventure!
Now that you have the recipe for this refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad, I encourage you to whip it up in your kitchen! Don’t hesitate to leave feedback or share your unique variations – I’d love to hear about your experiences. Happy cooking!
For more recipes check my
Avocado and Smoked Salmon Salad with Feta and Walnuts
Tzatziki Chicken Salad
Happy cooking