There are recipes that feel like pure comfort food, and then there are recipes that taste like sunshine on a plate. This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad falls right into the second category. With crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, tender shrimp, and a tangy creamy dressing, this dish is both refreshing and satisfying.
Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or even a light weeknight dinner, this salad has a balance of flavors and textures that never fails to impress. It’s light enough to keep you energized but indulgent enough to feel like a treat.
If you’ve been searching for a dish that blends freshness, protein, and creaminess all in one bite, this salad is about to become your new go-to favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
Fresh + Creamy Combo – The crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes pair beautifully with the richness of the creamy dressing.
Protein-Packed – Shrimp makes this salad hearty while still keeping it light and healthy.
Quick & Easy – With cooked shrimp, this dish comes together in just minutes.
Versatile – It works as a side dish, main course, or even a filling for wraps and sandwiches.
Crowd-Pleasing – Elegant enough for parties, simple enough for a family lunch.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Salad:
1 lb (450g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined – The star ingredient, adding protein and seafood flavor.
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced – Cool, crunchy, and hydrating.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds a pop of sweetness and acidity.
½ red onion, thinly sliced – Sharp flavor that balances the creaminess.
Fresh dill (about 2 tbsp, chopped) – Gives the salad that classic herby freshness.
For the Dressing:
½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option) – The creamy base.
2 tbsp mayonnaise – Adds richness and smoothness.
1 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens the salad and balances flavors.
1 tsp Dijon mustard – A subtle tangy kick.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the vegetables.
Wash and slice cucumbers into thin rounds. Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. Chop the fresh dill.
Make the dressing.
In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Assemble the salad.
In a large mixing bowl, combine shrimp, cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, and dill. Pour the dressing over the top.
Mix & chill.
Gently toss until everything is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Serve & enjoy.
Garnish with extra dill or lemon slices before serving.
Tips + Tricks for Success
Use fresh shrimp if possible. Pre-cooked frozen shrimp works great too—just thaw and pat dry.
Slice cucumbers thinly. This gives the salad a nice texture and helps the dressing cling better.
Chill before serving. This makes the salad more refreshing and lets the flavors blend.
Balance creaminess. If you like it lighter, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt. If you like it richer, increase the mayo.
Add crunch. Toss in some celery or bell pepper for extra bite.
Serving Ideas & Variations
As a Side Dish – Perfect alongside grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
As a Main Course – Serve with crusty bread or pita for a complete meal.
In Wraps – Spoon the salad into tortillas or pita bread for a quick lunch.
Low-Carb Option – Serve on a bed of lettuce or stuff into avocado halves.
Extra Flavor Boost – Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or a dash of Old Bay seasoning for a coastal twist.
Storage Guide
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended (the cucumbers lose their crunch and the dressing separates).
Make Ahead Tip: Prep the shrimp and veggies in advance, then toss with dressing just before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad has everything: freshness, flavor, protein, and creaminess. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for almost any occasion. Whether you serve it as a light dinner, a potluck dish, or part of a holiday spread, it’s bound to be a hit.
It’s the kind of recipe you’ll make once and then keep coming back to again and again.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a salad that feels both comforting and refreshing, this is it. The cool cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, tender shrimp, and creamy dill dressing come together in a way that feels indulgent yet light.
Make this Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad for your next gathering—or even just for yourself—and watch it become a new favorite. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious, this recipe proves that sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most unforgettable dishes.
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