Cucumber Shrimp Salad

The Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a celebration of crisp freshness and coastal flavor. With tender shrimp, cooling cucumber, creamy avocado, and an herbaceous lemon vinaigrette, this dish comes together in just minutes and bursts with bright, zesty goodness.

It’s the perfect solution for hot days when you want something quick and light yet nourishing. Whether you’re entertaining guests or meal-prepping for the week, this salad delivers both on flavor and visual appeal, making it a standout on any table. Serve it on its own or as a side to your favorite grilled dishes.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 avocado, diced

• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine shrimp, cucumber, red onion, avocado, dill, and parsley.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour dressing over the shrimp and vegetable mixture.

4. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

5. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

6. Serve chilled and garnish with extra dill if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why This Cucumber Shrimp Salad Deserves a Spot on Your Summer Menu

When the weather heats up, we naturally crave lighter, fresher meals that don’t require firing up the oven. That’s where this Cucumber Shrimp Salad steps in, an effortless yet elegant dish that combines plump, juicy shrimp with cool cucumber slices, creamy avocado, and a bright lemon-dill vinaigrette. It’s everything you want on a hot summer day: refreshing, nourishing, and ready in under 20 minutes.

Not only does this salad come together quickly, but it also features a balance of clean proteins, healthy fats, and hydrating vegetables, making it perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even as a crowd-pleasing starter at your next picnic or BBQ. Whether you’re following a keto, Whole30, paleo, or gluten-free diet, this salad checks every box and it does so with flavor to spare.

Let’s explore why this Cucumber Shrimp Salad is more than just a recipe, it’s a lifestyle.

The Nutritional Powerhouse Behind the Ingredients

One of the standout features of this salad is its nutrient-dense ingredients. Each component was chosen not just for its flavor, but for the powerful health benefits it delivers.

Shrimp: A Lean, Protein-Rich Superfood

Shrimp is a phenomenal source of lean protein, just 3 ounces delivers over 20 grams of protein with fewer than 100 calories. It’s rich in iodine, selenium, vitamin B12, and choline, all of which support thyroid function, brain health, and metabolic efficiency.

Beyond that, shrimp contain antioxidants such as astaxanthin, which helps reduce inflammation and promotes skin and eye health. And because it cooks so quickly, shrimp makes for an ideal protein source when you’re short on time.

Cucumber: Hydrating and Detoxifying

Cucumbers are more than just a crunchy filler. Made up of over 95% water, cucumbers help hydrate the body and support digestion. They’re a good source of vitamin K, which supports bone health, and contain anti-inflammatory compounds that make them ideal for soothing summer meals.

Thinly slicing cucumbers adds crispness to every bite and pairs beautifully with the tender texture of shrimp.

Avocado: Healthy Fats That Satisfy

Avocados add a rich, creamy element to this salad without the need for dairy. They’re full of monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and help keep you satiated longer. Additionally, avocados are loaded with potassium (even more than bananas), fiber, and B vitamins.

Their mild flavor complements the zing of lemon and vinegar, while their buttery texture balances the crisp vegetables.

Fresh Herbs: Flavor and Function

Dill and parsley are more than garnishes; they play a vital role in both flavor and function. Dill has antibacterial properties and is great for digestion, while parsley is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and acts as a natural breath freshener.

Together, they brighten the dish and tie all the flavors together with an herbaceous twist that screams freshness.

The Secret to a Perfect Shrimp Salad

The secret to making a shrimp salad that truly shines lies in three key areas: quality of ingredients, balance of flavors, and serving temperature.

Choose Fresh or Properly Cooked Shrimp

While frozen shrimp work perfectly in this recipe, it’s important to thaw them correctly, either overnight in the fridge or under cold running water. Be sure to remove the shells and veins, and if you’re cooking raw shrimp, avoid overcooking. The moment they curl into a “C” shape and turn opaque pink, they’re done.

Chill Before Serving

This salad tastes best cold. Allowing the mixture to rest in the fridge for at least 15 minutes after assembling gives the flavors time to marry, while also making it ultra-refreshing when served. In fact, making it a few hours ahead enhances the lemony-herb infusion throughout the shrimp and vegetables.

Adjust to Your Taste

Like it zestier? Add extra lemon juice or zest. Want a little kick? A dash of red pepper flakes or a few sliced jalapeños will do the trick. This recipe is endlessly customizable, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Ideas

While the Cucumber Shrimp Salad is delicious on its own, you can elevate it with a few pairing ideas:

• On Greens: Serve it over a bed of arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens for an added layer of nutrition and color.

• In Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the salad into romaine or butter lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held option.

• As a Starter: Serve small portions in cocktail glasses or cucumber cups for a sophisticated appetizer at parties.

• With Crackers or Toast: Pair it with gluten-free crackers or seed bread for a more filling option, especially if serving as a meal.

Hosting a brunch or garden party? This dish can easily be prepped in advance, stored in the fridge, and plated just before guests arrive, making you the effortless host everyone envies.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This salad is great for meal prep, especially if you store the avocado separately to prevent browning. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Add avocado just before serving for best texture and color.

• If you’re prepping ahead for a party, consider assembling everything except the dressing, then toss right before serving.

Bonus tip: Double the dressing and use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or vegetables, it’s that good!

Who Will Love This Recipe?

This salad is for anyone who:

• Needs a quick, no-cook weeknight meal

• Wants to impress guests with minimal effort

• Follows a clean eating, gluten-free, or dairy-free lifestyle

• Is looking for low-carb, high-protein lunch options

• Simply enjoys fresh, delicious food with real ingredients

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for yourself, or preparing a dish to pass at a gathering, this Cucumber Shrimp Salad hits all the right notes.

Conclusion

In a world full of complicated recipes and long ingredient lists, this Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a breath of fresh air. It proves that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming. With just a handful of whole ingredients, you can create a dish that’s vibrant, balanced, and full of flavor.

This salad is more than just a meal, it’s a reminder that nourishing your body can be joyful, beautiful, and deeply satisfying. Serve it on a sunny patio, bring it to your next potluck, or enjoy it solo with a tall glass of sparkling water and a sprig of mint. However you choose to savor it, this dish is sure to become a staple in your seasonal rotation.