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Classic Creamy Shrimp Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 6 reviews

This Classic Creamy and Delicious Shrimp Salad is a perfect blend of tender shrimp tossed in a tangy, mayonnaise-based dressing flavored with fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and aromatic herbs. With crisp celery adding a pleasant crunch and subtle spices enhancing every bite, this shrimp salad makes a refreshing appetizer or light meal. It’s quick to prepare, requires no cooking, and can be customized with various substitutions to suit dietary needs.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Shrimp Salad Ingredients

  • 2 pounds large cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise
  • 2 celery stalks, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Optional Variations

  • Lower fat: Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt
  • Dairy-free: Use vegan mayonnaise
  • Extra crunch: Add diced red bell pepper or water chestnuts
  • Herb variations: Substitute parsley or dill for chives

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the cooked shrimp under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels. Remove any remaining shells or tails. Cut larger shrimp into bite-sized pieces, leaving smaller shrimp whole. This ensures uniform pieces that distribute evenly throughout the salad.
  2. Make the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth. This mixture forms a tangy-creamy base that gives the shrimp salad its signature deli-style flavor, with mustard adding depth and lemon adding brightness.
  3. Add Seasonings and Aromatics: Stir in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Add the finely diced celery and chopped chives, mixing gently to combine. The celery provides a crunchy texture without overpowering the delicate shrimp.
  4. Fold in the Shrimp: Add the prepared shrimp to the bowl and fold gently with a large spoon or spatula. Take care not to overmix to avoid breaking the shrimp, ensuring each piece is evenly coated while maintaining good texture.
  5. Season and Chill: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up slightly, making it perfect for spreading or serving.

Notes

  • Use high-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture.
  • Chilling the salad is important to develop flavor and achieve the best consistency.
  • If you want to add extra crunch, diced red bell pepper or water chestnuts are great additions.
  • For a healthier twist, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayonnaise.
  • Feel free to swap fresh chives with parsley or dill according to your preference.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/classic-creamy-shrimp-salad-recipe/