Introduction**
This refreshing salad brings together juicy shrimp, crisp cucumbers, and a creamy herb dressing that’s both light and flavorful. Perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or as a cool side dish, it combines protein-rich shrimp with hydrating cucumber and aromatic dill for a balanced, elegant meal.
Ingredients**
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced or diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for cooking shrimp)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of paprika or cayenne for light heat
Instructions**
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Wash and slice cucumbers into half-moons or cubes.
- You can peel them if preferred, or leave the skin for crunch and color.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel to reduce excess moisture.
- Make the Creamy Dressing:
- In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking — add more lemon juice for tang or more dill for freshness.
- Combine the Salad:
- In a large bowl, add the shrimp and cucumbers.
- Pour the creamy dressing over and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend beautifully.
Preparation Time**
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 6 minutes
- Chill time: 30 minutes
- Total time: ~50 minutes
Health Benefits**
- Shrimp: High in protein, low in calories, and a great source of selenium and vitamin B12.
- Cucumber: Hydrating, rich in antioxidants, and supports digestion.
- Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream: Provides probiotics and calcium for gut and bone health.
- Dill & Lemon: Natural detoxifiers with refreshing flavor and vitamin C boost.
Serving Suggestions**
- Serve chilled as a light main course or appetizer.
- Pair with crusty bread, avocado toast, or grilled corn.
- Add lettuce leaves for extra crunch or serve over a bed of greens.
Lovers of This Dish**
Seafood lovers adore this recipe for its simplicity and fresh, oceanic flavor. It’s a hit at summer barbecues, holiday tables, and romantic dinners — a cooling, elegant dish that feels fancy yet effortless.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)**
(Approximate values — for 4 servings)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
Conclusion**
Creamy Shrimp and Cucumber Salad is a refreshing blend of ocean flavors and garden freshness. Its creamy herb dressing ties the ingredients together beautifully, making it a go-to dish for those who crave something light, delicious, and satisfying. Simple to make, stunning to serve — this salad will quickly become one of your favorites