This shrimp salad is fresh and light, featuring juicy shrimp mixed with creamy yogurt and crispy veggies. It’s perfect for a quick meal or a tasty side dish on a sunny day!
I love how simple it is to whip up—just toss everything together and you’re ready to enjoy! Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a lovely lunch! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Cooked shrimp are the star of this salad. You can use frozen shrimp; just thaw and drain them before use. If you’re not a shrimp fan, try cooked chunks of chicken or even canned tuna as a protein alternative.
Greek Yogurt: I love using plain Greek yogurt for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. If you’re aiming for a lighter option, use low-fat yogurt. For a dairy-free version, try coconut yogurt or almond-based yogurt instead!
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds great crunch. If you want a twist, you could swap in diced bell peppers or avocado for a creamier texture.
Fresh Dill: Dill gives a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill works too but use less since it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, you can try parsley or cilantro for a different flavor.
How Do You Make the Dressing Creamy and Flavorful?
The dressing is key to this salad’s success. Start by mixing the Greek yogurt with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a big bowl. Make sure to taste it as you go—adding more lemon juice can brighten flavors, while extra salt balances the richness of the yogurt.
- Mix well to ensure a smooth consistency and that the salt and pepper are evenly distributed.
- If you want it slightly thinner, you can add a splash of water or extra lemon juice to loosen it up.
- Let it chill for a bit to allow the flavors to come together before adding the shrimp and veggies!
By following these tips, you’ll get a deliciously creamy dressing that perfectly complements the shrimp and veggies in the salad! Enjoy your fresh creation!
How to Make Shrimp Salad With Yogurt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves, chopped, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This shrimp salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. There’s no cooking involved (if you’re using pre-cooked shrimp), so it’s super quick! You can also chill it in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend nicely.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it forms a nice, creamy dressing. It’s the perfect base for your salad!
2. Add the Main Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add the fun stuff! Add the cooked shrimp, diced cucumber, diced apple, diced celery, and chopped dill into the bowl with the dressing. These ingredients will create lovely flavors and textures in your salad, so make sure everything is good and fresh!
3. Toss it All Together:
Gently toss all the ingredients together. You want everything to be evenly coated with the creamy yogurt dressing—don’t be too rough, as you don’t want to break the shrimp!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste. Add more salt or a little more lemon juice if you think it needs it. This step is crucial because it helps ensure your flavors are just right!
5. Serve:
To serve, place a generous scoop of the shrimp salad over a bed of chopped lettuce leaves. It adds a nice crunch to every bite.
6. Chilling is Optional:
If you have a few extra minutes, consider chilling the salad in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together even more.
Enjoy Your Delicious Salad!
This creamy shrimp salad is a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors with a crunchy texture. Perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer at your next gathering. Enjoy every bite! 🌿🥗
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can certainly use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely first. You can do this overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before adding them to the salad.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add diced bell peppers, grated carrots, or even chopped avocados for extra creaminess. Just be sure to keep the flavors balanced and fresh!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover shrimp salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the texture may change as the vegetables release moisture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. However, if you plan to make it ahead, consider adding the dressing just before serving to keep the veggies crisp and the salad fresh.
