Irresistibly Creamy Shrimp Salad: Your Quick & Easy 20-Minute Recipe for Any Occasion
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this incredibly simple yet extraordinarily flavorful **creamy shrimp salad**. Imagine succulent, perfectly seasoned shrimp, tossed in a vibrant, rich dressing made with luscious mayonnaise, a subtle kick of zesty horseradish, fragrant fresh dill, crisp shallots, and crunchy celery. The best part? This entire culinary delight comes together in just about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it an absolute game-changer for quick, satisfying lunches, effortless dinners, or a show-stopping potluck contribution. Say goodbye to bland, time-consuming meals and hello to your new favorite go-to recipe for fresh, wholesome seafood goodness that everyone will adore.
Why This Creamy Shrimp Salad Will Become Your Go-To Recipe
This isn’t just another shrimp salad recipe; it’s a testament to how effortless and rewarding home cooking can be. Our creamy shrimp salad shines as a true kitchen hero for several compelling reasons, making it an indispensable staple in any repertoire, especially during warmer months or whenever you need something quick, delicious, and impressive.
- Lightning-Fast Preparation: In today’s busy world, time is a precious commodity. This recipe respects that, delivering a gourmet-tasting dish in a remarkable 20 minutes. From cooking the shrimp to whisking the dressing and combining all the ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can enjoy a fresh, wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor.
- Incredibly Versatile: One of shrimp’s greatest attributes is its adaptability, and this salad showcases it beautifully. While it’s a stellar stand-alone dish, its mild yet flavorful profile makes it perfect for countless serving options. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a satisfying main course, or an elegant appetizer, this shrimp salad fits the bill seamlessly. It’s truly a versatile seafood sensation!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: While often a potluck favorite and a staple for barbecues and cookouts alongside grilled shrimp or shrimp cocktails, this salad transcends casual gatherings. It’s sophisticated enough for a dinner party starter, yet simple enough for a bustling weeknight family meal. Its refreshing nature makes it ideal for summer picnics, but it’s equally delightful year-round.
- Bursting with Fresh Flavors and Textures: The magic of this salad lies in its harmonious blend of ingredients. The juicy, plump, and perfectly seasoned shrimp are beautifully complemented by the rich, tangy, and subtly spicy horseradish-dill dressing. Adding to this symphony are the delicate crunch of finely diced shallots and crisp celery, creating a dynamic array of textures and a vibrant, refreshing taste in every mouthful.
- Minimal Cooking, Maximum Flavor: You won’t spend hours over a hot stove with this recipe. The quick steaming method ensures the shrimp cook just right, locking in moisture and natural sweetness, making them tender and never rubbery. This careful cooking step is crucial as perfectly cooked shrimp are the foundation of an outstanding salad. The fresh, simple ingredients require minimal chopping, further simplifying your cooking process and ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Whether nestled in crisp lettuce cups, piled high on a toasted bun or flaky croissant, or simply enjoyed by the scoopful, this creamy shrimp salad is guaranteed to be a hit. Its irresistible taste and ease of preparation mean we’re confident you won’t have any leftovers!
Key Ingredients for a Sensational Creamy Shrimp Salad
Crafting the perfect creamy shrimp salad starts with selecting quality ingredients that contribute to its delightful texture and unforgettable flavor. While the full, precise measurements and step-by-step instructions are available in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, here’s a detailed look at what makes this dish so special and how you can personalize each component to your taste.
Ingredient Spotlight & Customization Tips
Each ingredient in this shrimp salad plays a vital role in creating its balanced and delicious flavor profile. Here’s how to make the most of each one, along with smart substitution suggestions:
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The Star: Shrimp
We highly recommend using uncooked medium shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed) and seasoning them yourself. This hands-on approach ensures maximum fresh flavor and allows you to control the texture for plump, tender results. If time is truly of the essence, you can certainly use pre-cooked shrimp from your grocery store. Just be sure to rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat them very dry before adding them to the salad to prevent a watery consistency. For different shrimp sizes, simply adjust the cooking time slightly; smaller shrimp cook faster.
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The Creamy Base: Mayonnaise
This ingredient forms the luxurious, creamy foundation of our dressing. Your favorite brand of full-fat mayonnaise will provide the richest flavor and most satisfying texture. For a lighter version of this creamy shrimp salad, consider opting for a reduced-fat mayonnaise, or try a blend of half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt or sour cream. The tang from Greek yogurt, in particular, can add a refreshing dimension to the dressing.
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The Flavor Kick: Horseradish Sauce
This is a subtle yet crucial ingredient that elevates the salad, adding a piquant, slightly spicy kick without overpowering the delicate shrimp. It introduces a layer of complexity that sets this creamy shrimp salad apart. If you’re not a fan of horseradish, or simply don’t have it on hand, a teaspoon of robust Dijon mustard or even a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper can provide a similar flavor depth and warmth.
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The Fresh Herb: Fresh Dill
The bright, aromatic burst of fresh dill is absolutely essential to this shrimp salad’s signature taste. Its unique, slightly anise-like flavor pairs perfectly with seafood. While dried dill can be used in a pinch, fresh dill offers an incomparable vibrancy and fresh aroma. If fresh dill isn’t available or you’d like to experiment, other fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or chives could also complement the shrimp beautifully.
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The Aromatic Crunch: Shallots & Celery
Finely chopped shallots provide a milder, sweeter onion flavor than traditional onions, adding a delicate crunch and aromatic depth to the salad without being too pungent. If shallots are hard to find, a very finely minced red onion (you can soak it in cold water for a few minutes to mellow its bite) can be a good substitute. Celery is crucial for that satisfying crisp texture and a refreshing, slightly peppery note. Ensure it’s finely chopped for even distribution throughout the salad. For a different textural element, you could try finely diced cucumber or water chestnuts.
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The Zesty Finish: Lemon Juice & Garlic Powder
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is non-negotiable! It brightens all the flavors, adds a necessary tang, and beautifully cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise, bringing a fresh, lively note to the creamy shrimp salad. Garlic powder, along with black pepper and garlic salt used for seasoning the shrimp, enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and provides a foundational savory note to the dressing. Adjust these seasonings to your taste preferences for a perfectly balanced flavor.
Don’t be afraid to adjust these ingredients to your liking or to use what you have available! This creamy shrimp salad recipe is designed to be flexible and forgiving.
How to Prepare This Delightful Creamy Shrimp Salad: Step-by-Step
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- Season the Shrimp: Begin by placing your peeled, deveined, and tail-removed shrimp in a medium-sized bowl. Sprinkle them generously with ½ teaspoon of black pepper and ½ teaspoon of garlic salt. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure each piece of shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning. This initial step is key to building a flavorful foundation for your creamy shrimp salad, ensuring the shrimp itself is juicy and delicious.
- Cook and Cool the Shrimp: Carefully steam the seasoned shrimp for approximately 5 minutes, or until they turn opaque and a beautiful pink color. It’s crucial not to overcook them, as this can lead to a rubbery texture. Immediately remove the cooked shrimp from the steamer and spread them out in a single layer on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. Once slightly cooled, place the shrimp in the refrigerator to cool completely. This not only halts the cooking process but also ensures your shrimp salad remains perfectly chilled and wonderfully refreshing when served.
- Whisk the Creamy Dressing: While the shrimp cools, prepare your irresistible dressing. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of horseradish sauce, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Use a rubber spatula or spoon to thoroughly mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the dressing is perfectly smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps for a consistently delightful texture.
- Combine and Gently Toss: Once the shrimp are fully cooled to refrigerator temperature, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the 1 tablespoon of chopped shallots and ¼ cup of chopped celery, then pour in about two-thirds of the prepared dressing. For best results and to preserve the delicate texture of the shrimp, use gloved hands or a large spatula to gently toss and fold the shrimp and vegetables with the dressing. Continue until everything is evenly coated without crushing the tender shrimp.
EXPERT TIP – We find that two-thirds of the dressing provides the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor without overwhelming the star ingredient, the shrimp. However, taste as you go! Feel free to add more of the remaining dressing if you prefer a richer, more heavily coated shrimp salad. Customizing to your preference is key to your perfect salad.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Shrimp Salad
No steamer? No problem! You can easily boil the shrimp to achieve similar results. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your seasoned shrimp to the vigorously boiling water, then immediately turn off the heat and cover the pot tightly. Let the shrimp sit in the hot water for 3-4 minutes, or until they are fully pink and opaque. This gentle poaching method effectively cooks the shrimp without making them tough or chewy. Drain them thoroughly using a colander and proceed with cooling in the refrigerator as instructed.
To maintain its optimal freshness, flavor, and food safety, always store your creamy shrimp salad in an air-tight container. Place it promptly in the refrigerator. When properly stored, it will remain delicious and safe to eat for up to 3 days. It’s especially crucial to keep this salad chilled when you are not actively serving it, particularly if taking it to picnics, potlucks, or outdoor gatherings.
Absolutely! This creamy shrimp salad is an excellent make-ahead option, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining. You can prepare the entire salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. In fact, allowing it to chill for a few hours or even overnight often results in the flavors melding and deepening, creating an even tastier salad. Just ensure it’s sealed with an air-tight lid or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap until you are ready to serve.
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly well for this recipe and are a convenient option. The key is to thaw them completely before use. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker method, place them in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes until fully thawed. Once thawed, it’s very important to pat them extremely dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking. This step helps prevent a watery salad and ensures the seasonings adhere properly.
The beauty of shrimp salad is its adaptability! For extra crunch, consider stirring in finely diced red bell peppers, crisp water chestnuts, or even a handful of toasted slivered almonds or chopped pecans. To boost the flavor profile, a pinch of Old Bay seasoning, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a wonderful kick and depth. Fresh chives, finely chopped red onion, or even a few capers can also enhance the savory and briny notes, making your shrimp salad truly unique.
Shrimp itself is a fantastic lean source of protein, rich in essential nutrients, and naturally low in calories and saturated fat. To make this creamy shrimp salad even healthier, you can opt for light mayonnaise or substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for added protein and a tangy boost. Loading up on extra fresh vegetables like halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced cucumber, or shredded carrots can also significantly boost the nutritional value and freshness of your meal, turning it into a truly wholesome choice.
Creative & Delicious Ways to Serve Your Creamy Shrimp Salad
The incredible versatility of this creamy shrimp salad means there are endless ways to enjoy it, transforming it from a simple side dish into a sophisticated appetizer or a hearty main course. While it’s utterly delicious straight from the bowl, here are some delightful serving suggestions to inspire your next meal:
- Classic Sandwiches & Rolls: For a timeless and satisfying meal, pile generous scoops of your creamy shrimp salad onto soft brioche buns, toasted slider rolls, or a flaky, buttery croissant. These make for an elevated lunch experience that feels gourmet yet is incredibly easy to prepare. Mini versions on small rolls are perfect for elegant appetizers at any gathering.
- Light & Fresh Wraps: For a lighter, carb-conscious, and refreshing option, spoon the salad into crisp lettuce leaves (such as butter lettuce, romaine, or endive spears). These create delicious, low-carb wraps that are perfect for a healthy lunch or a light dinner. You can also use large, soft tortillas or whole-wheat pita bread for a more substantial wrap.
- Elegant Appetizers & Canapés: Showcase this creamy shrimp salad as a sophisticated party bite. Serve individual scoops on crisp cucumber slices, artisan crackers, or in delicate mini pastry shells. A thoughtful garnish, such as a sprinkle of vibrant paprika, a tiny sprig of fresh dill, or a few capers, can add an extra touch of elegance and visual appeal.
- Hearty Main Course: Elevate this salad to a satisfying and complete dinner. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, on a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a protein-packed meal, or nestled into the hollowed-out halves of ripe avocados for a visually stunning and creamy-rich dish.
- Side Dish Extraordinaire: This creamy shrimp salad makes a fantastic and refreshing accompaniment to various main dishes. Pair it with grilled chicken, baked fish, or even a simple bowl of your favorite soup. Its refreshing qualities make it a perfect addition to your next potluck, barbecue, or picnic, where it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and disappear quickly!
Remember, for the best flavor and texture, this creamy shrimp salad is always best served chilled. Allowing it to cool completely in the refrigerator helps the flavors meld and ensures a wonderfully refreshing experience with every bite.
Explore More Delicious & Easy Salad Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of this quick and easy creamy shrimp salad, you’ll love exploring other delightful salad creations from our kitchen. We believe in making wholesome, flavorful meals accessible to everyone. Here are some of our other favorite salad recipes to inspire your next meal or gathering:
- Classic Egg Salad – Another creamy, comforting favorite that’s perfect for sandwiches or lettuce wraps.
- Hearty Spaghetti Salad – A unique and incredibly flavorful pasta salad, always a hit at gatherings.
- Zesty Taco Pasta Salad – All the vibrant, bold flavors of your favorite tacos brilliantly transformed into a refreshing pasta salad.
- Refreshing Summer Pasta Salad – Packed with seasonal veggies and a light, zesty dressing, it’s the taste of summer in a bowl.
- Shrimp Pasta Salad – If you love shrimp, this delightful pasta salad featuring tender shrimp and fresh ingredients is a must-try.
- Nana’s Classic Macaroni Salad – A timeless, creamy recipe that brings comforting nostalgia to any meal, just like grandma used to make.
- Fresh Tomato Cucumber Salad with Feta – A light, crisp, and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired side dish, perfect for warm weather.
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Shrimp Salad
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 20 ounces uncooked medium shrimp peeled, deveined, tails removed
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon horseradish sauce
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 Tablespoon fresh dill
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoon shallots chopped
- ¼ cup celery chopped
Things You’ll Need
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Steam pot
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Mixing bowls
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Rubber spatula
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Vinyl gloves
Before You Begin
- You can use cooked shrimp from the grocery store if you prefer. We like to cook our own since we season it first, making it more flavorful.
- If you don’t have a steam pot, you can boil the shrimp for 4 minutes. The shrimp is small in this salad. So it’s best to bring the water to a boil, drop the shrimp into the rolling water, turn off the heat and cover for 3-4 minutes then drain.
- Store in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to add cherry tomatoes if desired.
Instructions
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Season the shrimp with pepper and garlic salt.
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Steam the shrimp for 5 minutes. Remove from steamer and pat dry with paper towels. Place shrimp in the refrigerator to cool and stop the cooking.
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In a small bowl, use a rubber spatula or spoon to mix the mayonnaise, horseradish, lemon juice, dill, and garlic powder together.
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In a large bowl, place the shrimp, vegetables, and 2/3 of the dressing. Using gloved hands, carefully turn the shrimp and other ingredients until incorporated.
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TIP: You can add the rest of the dressing if you like. We feel that 2/3 of the dressing is enough.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.