Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

 Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe – A Refreshing Delight for Any Occasion

Looking for a light yet satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor? This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is the perfect blend of crisp cucumbers, succulent shrimp, and a rich, tangy dressing. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, packing a picnic, or just craving something cool and refreshing, this salad is sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, this dish comes together in just 15 minutes.

Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein from shrimp and hydrating cucumbers, it’s a guilt-free delight.

Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: Enjoy it as a main dish, side salad, or even tucked inside wraps for a light lunch.

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Ingredients

For the Salad

1 lb (450g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined – Provides a tender, savory bite with a sweet undertone.

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced – Adds crispness and refreshing flavor. English cucumbers work best for their mild taste and thin skin.

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Brings a pop of color and juicy sweetness to balance the creamy dressing.

1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced – For a mild crunch and vibrant color.

2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped – Enhances the salad with a bright, herbaceous aroma.

For the Creamy Dressing

1/2 cup sour cream – Provides a smooth, tangy base that perfectly complements the shrimp.

1/4 cup mayonnaise – Adds richness and depth to the dressing.

1 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and balances the creamy texture.

1 tsp Dijon mustard – Infuses the dressing with a slight kick of spice.

1/2 tsp garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor with subtle savory notes.

Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the fresh flavors.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

If using pre-cooked shrimp, ensure they are thoroughly thawed, rinsed, and patted dry.

If starting with raw shrimp, cook them in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes or until pink and opaque. Drain, rinse with cold water, and pat dry.

Step 2: Slice the Vegetables

Thinly slice the cucumbers and halve the cherry tomatoes.

Dice the red bell pepper and finely chop the fresh dill.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.

Whisk until smooth and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, toss the shrimp, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and dill together.

Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Garnish with extra dill or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

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Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Salad

✔️ Use Fresh Shrimp: While frozen shrimp works well, fresh shrimp will enhance the flavor and texture.

✔️ English Cucumbers Preferred: They have thinner skin, fewer seeds, and a milder taste, making them ideal for this salad.

✔️ Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances the flavors and ensures the dressing fully coats each ingredient.

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Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad pairs beautifully with:

Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up that creamy dressing.

Buttery Crackers – Ideal for scooping up the shrimp and veggies.

Grilled Corn on the Cob – Adds a smoky, sweet contrast to the tangy salad.

Fresh Greens – Serve the salad over a bed of lettuce for an extra refreshing touch.

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Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is the ultimate combination of cool, crisp vegetables and rich, savory shrimp coated in a luscious dressing. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick lunch or serving it as a show-stopping side dish, this recipe is guaranteed to 

be a hit.

Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and share it with friends — it's just too good to keep to yourself!