Shrimp and Cucumber Salad

This Shrimp and Cucumber Salad is a cooling, creamy blend of bright flavors and satisfying textures — perfect for warm weather meals or light entertaining. The tender shrimp pairs beautifully with crisp cucumbers and a tangy dill dressing, offering a balance of protein, healthy fats, and refreshing crunch.

What makes this salad a standout is how effortless it is to make. With just 10 minutes of prep and zero cook time, you can have a restaurant-worthy dish that feels indulgent but supports low-carb and gluten-free lifestyles. Whether you’re meal-prepping or impressing guests, this salad hits all the right notes.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 large cucumber, sliced thinly

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

• 1/2 avocado, diced

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked shrimp, cucumber slices, red onion, and avocado.

3. Pour the dressing over the shrimp and veggies and toss gently to coat.

4. Sprinkle chopped fresh dill over the top and give it one last gentle mix.

5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

6. Serve cold, garnished with extra dill if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Inspiration Behind Shrimp and Cucumber Salad

The beauty of this shrimp and cucumber salad lies in its simplicity, elegance, and ability to bring together clean, refreshing ingredients into a satisfying meal. Inspired by coastal cuisine and traditional cold seafood salads, this dish has become a favorite for those who crave flavor without the heaviness. The natural sweetness of shrimp pairs wonderfully with the cool crunch of cucumber, creating a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. It’s a salad that feels luxurious while still being incredibly approachable for weeknight dinners or light lunches.

This recipe is also deeply rooted in the idea of healthy indulgence—where rich, creamy dressings can still be low-carb and keto-friendly, and the inclusion of nutrient-dense additions like avocado make every bite both delicious and nourishing. Unlike heavy mayo-based salads, this one is balanced with lemon juice and fresh dill, bringing brightness and herbaceous flavor to the forefront.

Why Shrimp is the Perfect Protein

Shrimp is often overlooked as a main protein, but it’s one of the most versatile and healthful choices available. It’s low in calories, high in protein, and an excellent source of iodine, selenium, and vitamin B12. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor allows it to absorb other seasonings and dressings effortlessly, making it ideal for chilled dishes like this one.

Another benefit of using shrimp is how quickly it can be prepared. If you’re using pre-cooked or defrosted shrimp, there’s virtually no cooking involved—just a quick rinse and it’s ready to go. This saves time and makes the dish ideal for people who want a nutritious meal in minutes without compromising on quality or flavor.

The Role of Cucumber in Cold Salads

Cucumbers are more than just filler—they play a major role in the structure and satisfaction of this salad. Their high water content provides hydration and crunch, helping the salad feel light and refreshing. When paired with creamy dressing and rich ingredients like avocado or shrimp, cucumbers cut through the richness and add balance.

Additionally, cucumbers are packed with antioxidants, including vitamin C and beta-carotene, which support overall health. Their anti-inflammatory properties and digestive benefits make them a go-to in wellness-focused recipes. For this salad, thinly slicing the cucumber allows it to soak up the dressing while still holding its form.

The Creamy Dill Dressing: A Tangy Twist

The creamy dressing in this salad is what pulls everything together. A mixture of sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, it’s not just rich—it’s also tangy and light. The fresh dill adds depth and a pop of herby brightness that brings out the flavors of the shrimp and cucumber.

This kind of dressing is a great example of how keto or low-carb eating doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. By using full-fat, quality ingredients in moderation, the salad becomes satisfying without needing bread or carb-heavy components. It’s all about using bold flavors and fresh ingredients to create a balanced bite every time.

Why This Salad Is a Low-Carb Favorite

For those on a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle, finding meals that are both satisfying and macro-friendly can be a challenge. This shrimp and cucumber salad hits all the marks: high in protein, rich in healthy fats (thanks to avocado and the creamy dressing), and low in carbs. There are no grains or starchy fillers—just clean, nutrient-dense ingredients.

It’s also naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. The salad is grain-free, sugar-free, and dairy-optional if you choose to substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or a nut-based cream.

Meal Prep-Friendly and Customizable

One of the best things about this dish is how well it holds up in the fridge. It’s excellent for meal prep because the ingredients stay fresh and crisp even after chilling. In fact, letting it sit in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Customization is another huge advantage. You can easily add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or chopped celery. Want to make it spicier? Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Prefer a different herb? Swap dill with fresh parsley, chives, or tarragon for a completely new flavor profile.

When and How to Serve It

This salad is versatile enough to be served as a main course, a starter, or even a side dish. It’s a perfect option for summer gatherings, potlucks, or picnics because it’s best served cold. It can be plated individually for elegant presentation or served in a large bowl for a family-style meal.

If you’re looking to elevate the dish for guests, consider garnishing with lemon wedges, extra herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. You could also serve it on butter lettuce leaves or in halved avocados for a beautiful presentation that doubles as extra flavor and texture.

Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Appeal

Every ingredient in this shrimp and cucumber salad is thoughtfully chosen for both flavor and health benefits. Shrimp provides lean protein; cucumber adds hydration and fiber; avocado contributes heart-healthy fats; and the dressing, while creamy, is low in carbs and free from added sugars.

It’s suitable for several dietary lifestyles:

• Keto-friendly: High-fat, low-carb profile

• Gluten-free: No wheat or gluten-containing ingredients

• Pescatarian: Seafood-based and free from meat

• Low-calorie: Great for those watching their caloric intake

By offering a range of textures and flavors in each bite, the salad ensures you won’t feel deprived or bored—two common challenges with restrictive diets.

Tips for Making It Even Better

• Use chilled shrimp: Make sure your shrimp are fully cooled before mixing into the salad to keep everything crisp and refreshing.

• Slice cucumbers evenly: Use a mandoline if you want paper-thin slices that absorb dressing more effectively.

• Add crunch: Sprinkle sunflower seeds, chopped nuts, or crispy shallots on top right before serving.

• Make it dairy-free: Replace sour cream with coconut cream or almond yogurt for a vegan or dairy-free alternative.

• Boost protein: Add a hard-boiled egg or top with a soft-poached egg for extra protein and richness.

Conclusion

This shrimp and cucumber salad is a celebration of clean eating and satisfying flavors. It proves that healthy meals don’t need to be bland or time-consuming. With minimal prep, maximum freshness, and an indulgent creamy dressing that doesn’t weigh you down, it’s a dish that can easily become a staple in your meal rotation.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday lunch, entertaining guests, or searching for a new low-carb favorite, this recipe has everything you need. It’s customizable, nutritious, and effortlessly elegant—a perfect example of how real food can taste incredible with just a handful of ingredients and a bit of care.

This salad isn’t just another meal—it’s a reminder that eating well can and should be both joyful and delicious.