Cucumber Shrimp Salad: A Light, Refreshing, and Healthy Dish

This Cucumber Shrimp Salad is fresh, healthy, and full of bright flavors. Whether you need a quick lunch, light dinner, or a side dish for a summer barbecue, this salad is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

This low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly salad is incredibly easy to make in under 20 minutes. It’s perfect for warm weather, meal prep, or a quick and nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Why You’ll Love Cucumber Shrimp Salad

🥒 Fresh and Light
The combination of cool cucumbers and juicy shrimp makes this dish incredibly refreshing.

🍋 Zesty and Flavorful
A tangy lemon-herb dressing brings the salad together with bright, vibrant flavors.

🕒 Quick and Easy to Make
Ready in under 20 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

🦐 High in Protein and Low in Calories
Shrimp is a lean protein, and cucumbers are low in carbs, making this a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

For the Salad:

• 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon-Herb Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions for Cucumber Shrimp Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

• If using raw shrimp, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque. Drain and rinse under cold water.
• If using pre-cooked shrimp, simply thaw (if frozen) and pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

• Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onions.
• Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the parsley or dill.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

• In a large mixing bowl, combine shrimp, cucumbers, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and herbs.
• Pour the lemon-herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
• Enjoy as is, over a bed of greens, or with crusty bread on the side.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Shrimp Salad

🌟 Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh shrimp, crisp cucumbers, and ripe cherry tomatoes make a huge difference in flavor.

🍋 Let the Salad Marinate
Letting the salad sit for 15-30 minutes enhances the flavors and makes it even tastier.

🔥 Add Some Heat
For a spicy kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.

🥑 Make It Creamier
Add diced avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.

How to Serve Cucumber Shrimp Salad

🥗 As a Main Dish
Serve it on its own, with a slice of crusty bread or a side of quinoa.

🌮 In a Wrap or Taco
Spoon the salad into lettuce cups, tortillas, or pita bread for a light wrap.

🍚 Over Rice or Greens
Turn it into a shrimp salad bowl by serving over steamed rice or mixed greens.

Variations to Try

🥑 Avocado Shrimp Salad: Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.

🥒 Mediterranean Shrimp Salad: Add feta cheese, kalamata olives, and oregano for a Mediterranean twist.

🌶 Spicy Thai Shrimp Salad: Toss with a Thai-style peanut or chili dressing for a bold flavor boost.