How to Make Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Light, cool, and bursting with fresh flavor, this Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a perfect dish for warm-weather lunches, potlucks, or quick, healthy meals. Tender shrimp are combined with crisp cucumber, red onion, and a tangy yogurt-based dressing that feels indulgent while keeping things light. This salad is high in protein, low in carbs, and full of satisfying crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cool and Creamy: The yogurt dressing offers a light, creamy texture with a zesty kick.
High in Protein: Shrimp delivers a lean source of protein to keep you full longer.
Low-Carb and Fresh: Ideal for light meals, with refreshing cucumbers and crisp veggies.
Quick to Make: Comes together in minutes with minimal cooking.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1 large cucumber, diced (or sliced thinly)
• 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Creamy Dressing

• 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp light mayonnaise (optional, for richness)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

• If not using pre-cooked shrimp, boil or steam shrimp for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque. Cool completely.
• Roughly chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces.

Combine Salad Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp, diced cucumber, red onion, celery, and herbs. Toss gently.

Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and mayo (if using).
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix and Chill

• Pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture and toss to coat evenly.
• Chill for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 160 | Protein: 22g | Carbs: 4g | Fat: 5g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: Both work well; just be sure they’re fully cooked and chilled.
• Slice Cucumbers Thin: For a more delicate texture, thin slices work beautifully.
• Let It Chill: Chilling enhances the flavor and gives the salad a more refreshing bite.
• Optional Add-Ins: Try adding cherry tomatoes, avocado, or chopped fresh herbs like basil or mint.

Why This Recipe Works

• Simple and Satisfying: It delivers flavor and satiety with minimal ingredients.
• Bright, Clean Flavors: The lemon and yogurt keep it tangy and vibrant.
• Balanced Macros: Low in carbs and fat, high in protein, making it perfect for a light meal or side dish.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it ahead for quick lunches or to pair with greens for a heartier salad.

This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is everything you want in a summer-friendly, protein-rich meal—cool, crisp, and delightfully creamy without being heavy. Whether you’re enjoying it solo, serving it on lettuce wraps, or pairing it with crackers, it’s a versatile and refreshing recipe you’ll come back to again and again.