Description
This shrimp salad is a light, refreshing dish featuring plump shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy lemon-herb dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch, meal prep, or a summer gathering, this easy recipe comes together in just 20 minutes. Serve it as a sandwich, wrap, or over greens for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 garlic clove (smashed)
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ lemon (sliced)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or avocado oil mayo for a healthier option)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Salad:
- ½ cup celery (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup red onion (diced)
- ½ cup bell pepper (diced, any color)
- ½ avocado (optional, diced for a creamy texture)
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add salt, garlic, bay leaf, and lemon slices for extra flavor.
- Turn off the heat, add the shrimp, and let them cook in the hot water for about 3 minutes or until pink and opaque.
- Immediately transfer shrimp to an ice water bath to stop cooking and preserve texture. Let cool for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dill, parsley, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
- Add celery, red onion, bell pepper, avocado, and goat cheese (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture and gently toss to combine.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- Serve in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, or over greens.
Notes
- Shrimp Options: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well, but raw shrimp is recommended for better texture and flavor.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Keep the dressing separate and mix before serving to maintain freshness.
- Variations: Try adding Old Bay seasoning, chopped jalapeño, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Not suitable for freezing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
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