Shrimp Salad

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If you’re looking for a refreshing and satisfying meal that captures the essence of seaside dining, our Shrimp Salad is just the ticket. Bursting with flavors and textures, it combines tender shrimp with crisp vegetables and a creamy dill ranch dressing. This salad can be served in a bun for a delightful sandwich or simply on a bed of lettuce for a light, healthy meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a picnic, this shrimp salad will leave you feeling delighted and satisfied.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This shrimp salad is not only easy to prepare, but it also showcases the sweet, delicate flavor of shrimp paired with the crunch of celery and the zing of green onions. The dill ranch dressing ties everything together, adding a creamy, herbaceous element that elevates the dish. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy seafood in a fun and accessible manner. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual family dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds cooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 stalks celery, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 stalks green onion, thinly sliced
• ½ to 1 cup dill ranch dressing (see note)
• Fresh dill, chopped, for garnish
• Brioche buns, for serving
• Lettuce leaves, for serving

How To Make Shrimp Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your shrimp is thoroughly cooked, peeled, and deveined. Chop the celery into small pieces and slice the green onions thinly. The freshness of these vegetables is key for a crunchy texture in every bite.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, chopped celery, and sliced green onions. Gently fold them together to distribute the ingredients evenly without breaking the shrimp.

Step 3: Add the Dressing

Pour ½ cup of the dill ranch dressing over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated. You can add more dressing based on your preference for creaminess.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Chop some fresh dill and sprinkle it over the salad for an aromatic touch. For serving, you can either spoon the shrimp salad into brioche buns for a tasty sandwich or serve it nestled in crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

Expert Tips

• Always opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp. If you can, use shrimp that has been sustainably sourced.
• Don’t overmix the ingredients; you want to keep the shrimp intact for the best texture.
• Allow your salad to chill for about 30 minutes in the fridge before serving. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
• If you make this salad a few hours in advance, add the dressing right before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

Variations and Customizations

• For a kick of spice, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salad.
• Incorporate diced avocado for a creamy texture and extra flavor.
• Swap out the dill ranch dressing for a lemon vinaigrette for a lighter option.
• Add diced cucumbers or chopped bell peppers for even more crunch and color.

How to Store Leftovers

To store any leftover shrimp salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the longer it sits, the more the dressing will absorb, which may result in a dryer texture.

FAQ

Can I use raw shrimp for this recipe?

No, this recipe requires cooked shrimp. You can buy pre-cooked shrimp or cook raw shrimp quickly by boiling or sautéing until they turn pink and opaque.

What can I substitute for the dill ranch dressing?

You can substitute any creamy dressing you like, such as a garlic aioli or a light mayo with herbs, or create your own dressing with Greek yogurt, herbs, and lemon.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The shrimp salad can be made ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain the salad’s freshness.

How can I make this salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, you can serve it in lettuce wraps instead of brioche buns, which typically contain gluten.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Salad recipe is the perfect blend of fresh ingredients and delightful flavors, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation. Whether you enjoy it on a bun or on fresh greens, this shrimp salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and incredibly delicious—what more could you ask for in a summer dish? So gather your ingredients, whip up this salad, and get ready to enjoy a refreshing taste of the sea!

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