Name: Creamy Shrimp Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lemon, quartered; 1 cup celery, finely diced; 1/2 red onion, finely minced; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

Creamy Shrimp Salad is the perfect combination of tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a rich, flavorful dressing. This refreshing dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weekdays, light lunches, or summer gatherings. With bright lemon, fresh dill, and a creamy base, this salad delivers balanced flavor in every bite. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light main course, this easy American classic always satisfies. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a dependable choice for effortless entertaining.

Story

I started making Creamy Shrimp Salad during warmer months when I needed something light yet satisfying. Instead of turning on the oven, I preferred a quick stovetop recipe that delivered bold flavor without extra effort. Over time, this Creamy Shrimp Salad became my go-to dish for potlucks, weekend lunches, and quick dinners.

What makes this Creamy Shrimp Salad special is the balance of textures. The shrimp stay tender, the celery adds crunch, and the red onion gives just the right bite. Meanwhile, the creamy dressing ties everything together without overpowering the seafood. Unlike many versions of cold shrimp salad, this one keeps the flavors bright and clean.

Whenever I serve this seafood salad recipe, guests always ask for the recipe. It works beautifully as a crunchy summer salad, yet it also fits perfectly into meal prep routines. Since it qualifies as a simple 30 minute meal, I often prepare it ahead and chill it before serving. If you need a dependable lunch salad that feels fresh and satisfying, this recipe checks every box.

Ingredients

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lemon, quartered
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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil, then add the quartered lemon to infuse the water with bright citrus flavor. Meanwhile, position a large bowl halfway filled with ice water nearby to prepare for an ice bath. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the boiling water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Immediately drain the shrimp and transfer them into the ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once chilled, drain again and pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Cooking Instructions

In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper, then whisk until smooth and creamy. In a medium salad bowl, add the cooled shrimp, diced celery, and minced red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Transfer the Creamy Shrimp Salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with extra fresh dill just before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not overcook the shrimp, because they cook very quickly and can turn rubbery in minutes. Always wait until the water reaches a rolling boil before adding them. Also, never skip the ice bath. If you drain the shrimp and leave them at room temperature, they continue cooking, which affects texture. Additionally, avoid adding dressing while the shrimp are still warm, since that can thin the dressing and affect consistency.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Salt and lemon in the boiling water add subtle depth to the shrimp. For extra flavor, add a few peppercorns or garlic cloves to the water. Chill the salad for at least two hours before serving, since resting time allows the flavors to develop fully. Finally, chop vegetables evenly so each bite contains balanced texture and flavor.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Creamy Shrimp Salad chilled as a side dish alongside grilled meats or sandwiches. You can spoon it over butter lettuce cups for a lighter presentation or serve it inside croissants for a satisfying lunch. It also pairs beautifully with crackers or toasted baguette slices for entertaining.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the salad cold at all times and stir gently before serving again. Avoid freezing, since mayonnaise-based dressings separate after thawing.

Conclusion

Creamy Shrimp Salad delivers freshness, texture, and bold flavor in every bite. Because it comes together quickly and chills beautifully, it works for everything from meal prep to entertaining. Once you try this recipe, it will easily become your favorite way to prepare shrimp salad at home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for Creamy Shrimp Salad?

Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly well. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry thoroughly before adding to the salad to prevent excess moisture.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise?

You can replace part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture. However, keep some mayonnaise for richness and stability in the dressing.

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can prepare Creamy Shrimp Salad up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, chilling improves the flavor as the ingredients meld together.