Busy days call for simple meals that still feel special. Cucumber Shrimp Salad gives you fresh flavors and ready-in-a-flash prep, perfect for school nights, pool days, or a light weekend lunch.
If you like bright, crunchy salads, you might also enjoy Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans, another quick option that pleases kids and grown-ups.
Read on for a clear, no-fuss method so you can get dinner on the table without stress.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Cucumber Shrimp Salad Recipe
This recipe works for busy families because it takes little time and uses few ingredients. You can make it ahead and keep it chilled for an easy grab-and-go dinner or packed lunch.
Kids usually like the creamy dressing and mild shrimp flavor. The cucumbers add crunch and keep the salad light, so it feels healthy without being picky-eater unfriendly.
You can swap herbs, change the topping, or add a favorite grain to stretch leftovers. If you want another simple, family-friendly salad, try this Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad for a vegetarian weeknight option.
How to Make Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Ingredients
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined, 2 large cucumbers, diced, 4 green onions, sliced, 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), chopped, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream, 2 tablespoons lime juice, Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and lime juice to create the creamy dressing. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, diced cucumbers, green onions, and chopped herbs.
- Pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Cucumber Shrimp Salad
A refreshing salad featuring shrimp and cucumbers, prepared in under 15 minutes, perfect for busy families.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 large cucumbers, diced
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), chopped
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and lime juice to create the creamy dressing. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, diced cucumbers, green onions, and chopped herbs.
- Pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Serve on a bed of lettuce or in wraps for a complete meal. Adjust the dressing and ingredients as preferred for taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
How to Serve
Serve this salad on a bed of lettuce or mixed greens for an easy family meal. It pairs well with warm crusty bread or pita for kids who like to scoop.
Spoon it into wraps or stuff into avocado halves for a simple lunch. For a heartier dinner, add cooked quinoa or brown rice to make bowls everyone can customize.
A squeeze of extra lime and a sprinkle of chopped herbs brighten each plate right before serving.
How to Store
Put leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The salad keeps well for up to 2 days. The cucumbers stay crisp enough for that time, and the flavors meld nicely.
Avoid freezing this salad because the cucumbers and yogurt change texture when frozen. If you make the dressing ahead, store it separately and toss with the shrimp and cucumbers just before serving for best texture.
Tips and Variations
- Use cooked shrimp if you want a faster shortcut. Thaw and pat dry before mixing.
- Swap cilantro for parsley if your kids prefer milder herbs.
- Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist that pairs well with lime.
- For a dairy-free option, use mashed avocado or a vegan yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
- If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne or a few sliced jalapenos.
Keep prep tools handy: a sharp knife, a bowl for the dressing, and a large mixing bowl help this come together in under 15 minutes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes. Thaw, drain, and pat dry before mixing so the salad does not get watery.
Q: Is this safe for toddlers?
A: Cut the shrimp into small pieces and remove any tails. Watch for allergies with new foods.
Q: Can I make it the night before?
A: You can. Store it covered in the fridge. Toss again before serving to refresh the dressing.
Q: Can I add other veggies?
A: Yes. Tomatoes, bell peppers, or shredded carrot work well and add color.
Conclusion
This Cucumber Shrimp Salad gives you a fast, family-friendly meal that feels fresh and satisfying. It fits busy schedules and lets you serve something healthy without fuss. Try it this week and save it for later if it becomes a new favorite.
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