Description
This refreshing Shrimp Salad recipe features perfectly cooked shrimp combined with crisp celery, tangy red onion, and a creamy dill dressing. It’s a light and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare, ideal for a quick lunch, a healthy dinner, or a delightful appetizer.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 lemon (quartered)
Vegetables
- 1 cup celery (finely diced)
- 1/2 red onion (finely minced)
Dressing
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped, plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil water: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the quartered lemon to the water to infuse subtle citrus flavor into the shrimp as they cook.
- Prepare ice water: While the water is heating, fill a large bowl halfway with ice water and set it nearby to quickly cool the shrimp after boiling.
- Cook shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the boiling lemon water and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and are opaque throughout, indicating they’re fully cooked.
- Chill shrimp: Immediately drain the shrimp and transfer them to the prepared ice water to stop the cooking process and maintain their firm texture.
- Drain and dry shrimp: After the shrimp have cooled completely, drain them from the ice water and gently pat dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium salad bowl, place the cooked shrimp, finely diced celery, and minced red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Refrigerate and serve: Transfer the shrimp salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least a few hours to let the flavors meld. Before serving, garnish with additional fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are fully peeled and deveined before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
- Using lemon in the boiling water infuses a subtle citrus aroma to the shrimp.
- If you prefer a spicier salad, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
- The salad tastes best when chilled for a couple of hours, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time.
- This salad can be served on its own, over greens, or as a sandwich filling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
