This refreshing cucumber shrimp salad is perfect for a light meal. With crunchy cucumbers and juicy shrimp, it’s tasty and packed with healthy goodness!
Whenever I make this salad, it feels like a little party on my plate. Plus, it’s super easy! Just mix everything in a bowl and enjoy a healthy meal in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Cooked shrimp is a key player in this salad. If you can’t find cooked shrimp, you can buy raw shrimp and quickly cook them yourself. Just boil or sauté until they turn pink and opaque!
Cucumber: Crunchy cucumbers add freshness here. If cucumbers aren’t in season, you can use zucchini as a lighter substitute. It changes the taste a bit but keeps the crunch!
Greek Yogurt: This creamy component keeps it healthy. If you’re not a fan, you can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly.
Dill: Fresh dill elevates the dish with its unique flavor. If you don’t have dill, chopped parsley or basil works beautifully too. Just keep the amount similar!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Well-Mixed?
Mixing the salad properly ensures every bite is flavorful. Start by adding your chopped shrimp, diced cucumber, green onions, and dill to a large bowl. Combine them gently—this keeps the shrimp intact.
- Make the dressing in a separate bowl to ensure it’s smooth and well-blended.
- Pour it over the salad mixture evenly.
- Use a wide spatula or spoon to fold the ingredients together carefully, rather than stirring hard. This will prevent the shrimp from breaking apart.
After mixing, letting it chill for 15 minutes helps the flavors come together nicely. Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Easy Healthy Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 2 green onions (scallions), sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll want to chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let all the flavors blend together, for a total of about 25 minutes before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by preparing a large bowl. Add in the chopped cooked shrimp, diced cucumber, sliced green onions, and chopped fresh dill. Give it a gentle mix with a spoon to combine all those lovely ingredients.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if you’re using it for added creaminess), and fresh lime juice until it’s nice and smooth. This dressing is what will bring all the flavors together!
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture in your large bowl. Use a spatula or a large spoon to gently toss everything together, making sure each piece gets coated with that creamy goodness.
4. Season to Taste:
Now, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Give it another gentle toss to mix those seasonings in. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning based on your preference!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This chilling time helps the ingredients meld and intensifies the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out cold and garnish with extra dill or sliced green onions if you like!
This salad is not only light and refreshing but also a fantastic choice for a healthy lunch or a delightful side dish. Enjoy!
FAQs About Easy Healthy Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Can I Use Fresh Shrimp Instead of Cooked?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh shrimp, simply peel and devein them, then quickly cook in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. Make sure to cool the shrimp before adding them to the salad.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time! Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water as they sit, so try to add them right before serving to maintain their crunchiness. The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt like coconut yogurt. Just be aware that the flavor will change slightly depending on the substitute you choose!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Give it a good stir before eating to redistribute the dressing. Enjoy cold for a quick healthy snack or meal!
