A refreshing take on seafood, this shrimp salad is the perfect balance of light and creamy. With tender shrimp tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The crunch of celery and red onion adds texture, while fresh dill and parsley bring an herby brightness.
This shrimp salad is ideal for meal prep, picnics, or quick lunches. Serve it over crisp lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers for a versatile, delicious dish that never disappoints. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for a lighter version)
Directions:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Toss shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Sauté shrimp for 3-4 minutes per side until opaque and cooked through. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Chop the cooled shrimp into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl.
- Stir in celery, red onion, parsley, and dill. Mix well.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve over greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 18 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Zesty Lemon-Herb Shrimp Salad: A Light and Refreshing Meal
Shrimp salad is a dish that never goes out of style. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a nutritious dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this Zesty Lemon-Herb Shrimp Salad is a perfect choice. With tender shrimp coated in a creamy yet light dressing, crunchy celery, fresh herbs, and a hint of zesty lemon, this salad brings a burst of refreshing flavors to the table.
This dish is incredibly versatile—you can serve it as a sandwich filling, over crisp greens, or alongside crunchy crackers for a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of high-quality ingredients ensures that every bite is packed with flavor while keeping the meal nutritious. Let’s dive into what makes this shrimp salad so special.
The Appeal of Shrimp Salad
Shrimp salad is beloved for its simplicity and versatility. Unlike heavier seafood dishes, shrimp salad provides a light, refreshing, and healthy option that fits into various diets, including low-carb, keto, and gluten-free lifestyles. It’s packed with lean protein, making it a great choice for those looking to stay full without consuming excessive calories.
Additionally, shrimp is naturally low in fat and rich in important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and vitamin B12. The dressing, made with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard, adds a creamy texture while keeping the salad well-balanced in terms of flavor and nutrition.
This recipe is also ideal for meal prepping. Since it stores well in the refrigerator for a few days, you can make a batch ahead of time and have a quick and easy meal ready to go.
The Perfect Flavor Balance
The key to a great shrimp salad is balancing flavors and textures. This recipe excels in both aspects:
- The shrimp: Lightly seasoned and sautéed to perfection, shrimp provides a juicy, slightly sweet, and tender base for the salad.
- The dressing: A blend of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning gives the salad a creamy yet tangy taste with a slight kick of spice.
- Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley and dill add a fresh and aromatic quality, enhancing the natural flavors of the shrimp.
- Crisp vegetables: Finely chopped celery and red onion contribute a satisfying crunch that contrasts well with the creaminess of the dressing.
The lemon juice and zest provide a bright, citrusy element that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise, keeping the dish light and refreshing.
How to Serve Shrimp Salad
One of the best things about this Zesty Lemon-Herb Shrimp Salad is its versatility. You can enjoy it in several different ways, depending on your preference and dietary needs. Here are a few serving ideas:
1. Classic Shrimp Salad Bowl
Serve the shrimp salad on a bed of fresh, crisp lettuce such as romaine, butter lettuce, or arugula. Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for extra color and flavor.
2. Shrimp Salad Sandwich
For a heartier option, pile the shrimp salad onto a toasted croissant, sourdough bread, or a soft brioche bun. The creamy texture of the salad pairs beautifully with buttery bread, making for a delicious sandwich.
3. Lettuce Wraps (Low-Carb Option)
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, serve the shrimp salad in lettuce cups. Butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce works best because they hold their shape while providing a refreshing crunch.
4. Shrimp Salad with Crackers or Pita Chips
This shrimp salad makes a fantastic dip when served with crackers, pita chips, or even cucumber slices for a healthier alternative. It’s a great option for appetizers at parties and gatherings.
5. Stuffed Avocados
For an elegant presentation, scoop out a bit of avocado and fill the cavity with shrimp salad. This makes for a nutritious, low-carb, and high-protein meal.
Health Benefits of Shrimp Salad
Shrimp salad is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Here’s why it’s a great addition to your diet:
1. High in Protein
Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps support muscle growth and keeps you full longer. With approximately 20 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, it’s a fantastic option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
2. Low in Calories and Fat
Despite its creamy texture, this shrimp salad remains relatively low in calories, especially when using Greek yogurt instead of extra mayonnaise. Shrimp itself is naturally low in fat and provides essential nutrients without adding unnecessary calories.
3. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain function, heart health, and reducing inflammation in the body. Shrimp contains a good amount of these beneficial fats, making it a smart choice for overall wellness.
4. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
This salad is a great source of key vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin B12 – Supports nerve health and energy production.
- Selenium – A powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
- Iodine – Important for thyroid function and metabolism.
Tips for Making the Best Shrimp Salad
1. Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Shrimp
Fresh shrimp provides the best flavor, but high-quality frozen shrimp can work just as well. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them properly before cooking.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cooks quickly, so be sure to remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their delicate texture.
3. Let the Salad Chill
Allowing the shrimp salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together for a more delicious bite.
4. Adjust the Seasoning to Taste
Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper can all be adjusted based on your preference. If you like more zest, add extra lemon juice or zest for a punch of brightness.
5. Make it Lighter
For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This keeps the salad creamy while reducing fat content.
Conclusion
This Zesty Lemon-Herb Shrimp Salad is an easy, nutritious, and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a gathering with friends, its bright and refreshing flavors will leave everyone wanting more.
With its high protein content, low-calorie profile, and versatility, this shrimp salad is a great addition to any meal plan. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Try this shrimp salad today and discover how effortless it is to enjoy a delicious, healthy, and satisfying seafood dish anytime!