Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad: The Ultimate Light and Refreshing Dish
If you’re craving a dish that is light, protein-packed, and bursting with fresh flavor, look no further than this Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad. It’s the kind of salad that makes you forget it’s a salad—cool, tangy, creamy, and downright addictive. Perfect for summer lunches, potlucks, or as a quick weeknight dinner, this salad comes together in minutes and tastes like something you’d order at a high-end bistro.
Whether you’re on a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, or simply looking for a delicious way to eat more veggies and seafood, this recipe checks all the boxes.
🥒 Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad
- No cooking required (if using pre-cooked shrimp)
- Light yet satisfying thanks to the creamy dressing and protein-rich shrimp
- Customizable with herbs and add-ins
- Keto- and diabetic-friendly
- Tastes even better chilled the next day
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced or chopped
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional, for extra zing)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or parsley)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced (or ¼ tsp garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra brightness)
🥗 Instructions: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prep Your Shrimp
If using frozen shrimp:
- Thaw under cold water in a colander
- Pat completely dry with paper towels
Dry shrimp = better salad texture
Step 2: Slice Your Veggies
- Use a mandoline for super-thin cucumber slices, or dice for a chunkier texture
- Thinly slice red onion (optional, for bite)
- Chop fresh dill or parsley
Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Sour cream
- Mayonnaise
- Garlic
- Dijon mustard
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Add lemon zest for brightness or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine:
- Shrimp
- Cucumber
- Onion
- Dill
Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is well-coated.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve cold, garnished with extra dill or a lemon wedge.
🔁 Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
| Add-In | Flavor Boost |
|---|---|
| Avocado | Creamy, rich texture |
| Celery | Extra crunch |
| Cherry tomatoes | Sweetness and color |
| Capers | Briny, tangy contrast |
| Crumbled feta | Mediterranean twist |
| Chopped boiled eggs | Extra protein and creaminess |
📦 Storage Instructions
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Best enjoyed cold
- Do not freeze (the creamy dressing and cucumbers won’t hold up)
🍴 Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main dish for a light lunch
- Spoon over butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb wrap
- Use as a filling for sandwiches or stuffed pitas
- Enjoy with crackers or toasted baguette slices as an appetizer
- Pair with a crisp white wine or cucumber-infused water
💪 Health Benefits
This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse:
- Shrimp is low in calories, high in protein, and contains selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Cucumber is hydrating and full of antioxidants.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream provides calcium and probiotics (if using yogurt).
- Low in carbs and high in protein = great for weight loss and energy.
🧠 Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp Salad
- Use English cucumbers – fewer seeds, more crunch.
- Always dry your shrimp – excess water dilutes the creamy dressing.
- Let the salad sit at least 30 minutes in the fridge – trust us, it’s better cold and rested.
- Double the batch – it’s that good. Plus, it makes amazing leftovers.
- Want extra crunch? Add chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans).
🥄 Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approx. 4 Servings)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Macros may vary depending on ingredients used
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned shrimp?
Yes, but drain and rinse them well. Fresh or frozen shrimp will have a better texture.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.
What type of cucumber works best?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they have thin skins and few seeds.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free sour cream or coconut yogurt alternative.
Conclusion: A Salad That Surprises
Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad isn’t just another cold seafood dish—it’s an elevated, creamy, zesty creation that feels indulgent without the guilt. The textures are crunchy, creamy, and tender, and the flavors are herbaceous, tangy, and fresh. Serve it once, and it’s guaranteed to become a repeat favorite.
Whether you’re planning a summer lunch, hosting a brunch, or just looking for a new no-fuss recipe to fall in love with—this one’s it.