Chilled Shrimp and Cucumber Salad Cups

This past summer, with the heat relentlessly beating down, my family and I were constantly on the hunt for meals that were both satisfying and refreshingly light. Heavy, cooked dinners were simply out of the question most nights. That’s when I stumbled upon the recipe for Chilled Shrimp and Cucumber Salad Cups, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer! From the first bite, we were hooked. The cool, crisp cucumbers perfectly complemented the succulent shrimp, all tossed in a vibrant, zesty dressing. Served in adorable cucumber cups, it wasn’t just delicious, it was also incredibly elegant and fun to eat. Even my picky eaters devoured it, and it quickly became our go-to appetizer for summer gatherings and a light lunch option on scorching afternoons. If you’re searching for a recipe that screams summer freshness, is incredibly easy to make, and is guaranteed to impress, look no further. This Chilled Shrimp and Cucumber Salad is your answer!

Ingredients: Freshness in Every Bite

• Cooked Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined. Using pre-cooked shrimp saves time and ensures the salad is chilled and ready quickly. Look for wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• English Cucumbers: 2 large. Their thinner skin and fewer seeds make them ideal for both the salad and the cups, offering a crisp and refreshing base.
• Avocado: 1 ripe. Adds a creamy texture and healthy fats to the salad, balancing the lightness of the cucumber and shrimp. Choose an avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure.
• Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced. Provides a sharp, pungent flavor that cuts through the richness of the avocado and shrimp. Red onion adds a beautiful color contrast as well.
• Fresh Dill: 1/4 cup, chopped. Offers a bright, herbaceous note that perfectly complements seafood and cucumber. Fresh dill is crucial for the authentic flavor of this salad.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. Provides acidity and brightness, enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients and preventing the avocado from browning. Freshly squeezed is always preferred for its vibrant taste.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, extra virgin. Forms the base of the dressing, adding richness and healthy fats. Extra virgin olive oil provides the best flavor and health benefits.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon. Adds a subtle tang and emulsifies the dressing, bringing all the flavors together beautifully.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances the flavors of all ingredients and balances the acidity of the lemon juice.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Adds a touch of spice and depth of flavor to the salad.

Instructions: Simple Steps to Salad Perfection

1. Prepare the Cucumbers for Cups: Begin by washing the English cucumbers thoroughly. Cut each cucumber into 2-inch sections. Using a small spoon or melon baller, carefully scoop out the seeds from the center of each cucumber section, creating a small cup. Be careful not to pierce the bottom of the cucumber cups. Set the cucumber cups aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess moisture.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: If using large shrimp, cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, and finely diced red onion.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is well emulsified and slightly thickened.
4. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the shrimp and cucumber mixture in the medium bowl. Gently toss everything together until the shrimp and vegetables are evenly coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mash the avocado while tossing.
5. Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly. Chilling enhances the refreshing quality of the salad.
6. Assemble the Salad Cups: Just before serving, spoon the chilled shrimp and cucumber salad into the prepared cucumber cups. Fill each cup generously.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the filled cucumber cups with a small sprig of fresh dill or a sprinkle of extra chopped dill for a beautiful presentation. Arrange the salad cups on a platter and serve immediately. Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful appetizer or light meal!

Nutrition Facts: Healthy and Delicious

(Per Serving, approximately 6 servings)

• Serving Size: 2-3 Cucumber Cups
• Calories: Approximately 220 calories
• Protein: 18 grams

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy to Make

This Chilled Shrimp and Cucumber Salad is a dream for busy cooks! The active preparation time is only about 20 minutes. This includes prepping the cucumbers, chopping the ingredients, and mixing the salad. Allow for an additional 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to reach the perfect refreshing temperature. Therefore, the total preparation time is approximately 50 minutes, most of which is hands-off chilling time. This makes it an ideal recipe for last-minute gatherings or a quick and healthy lunch or appetizer when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve Chilled Shrimp and Cucumber Salad Cups

This versatile salad is perfect for a variety of occasions and can be served in numerous delightful ways:

• Appetizer for Parties and Gatherings:
  • Arrange the cucumber cups artfully on a platter for an elegant and refreshing appetizer at cocktail parties, summer barbecues, or holiday gatherings.
  • Serve alongside other light appetizers like bruschetta, caprese skewers, or fruit salad for a diverse and appealing spread.
  • The individual cucumber cups are naturally portioned and easy for guests to handle.
• Light Lunch Option:
  • Enjoy a few cucumber cups as a satisfying and healthy light lunch.
  • Pair with a side of whole-wheat crackers or a small green salad for a more complete meal.
  • Perfect for a warm day when you want something nutritious but not heavy.
• Side Dish for Grilled Dishes:
  • Serve alongside grilled fish, chicken, or even steak as a refreshing and contrasting side dish.
  • The coolness of the salad cuts through the richness of grilled meats and provides a balanced meal.
• Low-Carb Option in Lettuce Cups:
  • For a truly low-carb and even lighter option, skip the cucumber cups and serve the salad in crisp lettuce cups, such as butter lettuce or romaine lettuce leaves.
  • This is a great alternative for those watching their carbohydrate intake or simply wanting an extra light meal.
• Refreshing Snack:
  • Enjoy a cucumber cup or two as a healthy and satisfying snack between meals.
  • Keeps you feeling full and refreshed without being heavy or caloric.
• Presentation Ideas:
  • Garnish each cucumber cup with a small sprig of fresh dill, a tiny lemon wedge, or a sprinkle of paprika for visual appeal.
  • Arrange the cucumber cups on a bed of shredded lettuce or fresh greens for a vibrant and colorful presentation.
  • Use a tiered serving platter to elevate the presentation and make the appetizer even more eye-catching.

Additional Tips for the Best Shrimp and Cucumber Salad

To ensure your Chilled Shrimp and Cucumber Salad Cups are absolutely perfect, consider these helpful tips:

1. Use High-Quality Shrimp: Opt for wild-caught shrimp whenever possible, as they tend to have a superior flavor and texture compared to farmed shrimp. Look for shrimp that is firm, not mushy, and has a fresh, clean scent.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp (If Cooking): If you are cooking your own shrimp, be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked shrimp will be rubbery and tough. Cook just until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Using pre-cooked shrimp eliminates this step and ensures consistent texture.
3. Chill All Ingredients Before Assembling: For the most refreshing salad, chill all the ingredients – shrimp, cucumbers, avocado, red onion, and even the dressing – before assembling. This ensures the salad is wonderfully cool and crisp when served.
4. Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Taste the salad dressing and the final salad before serving and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You may want to add more lemon juice for extra tang, more salt and pepper to enhance the flavors, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
5. Add a Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes for Heat: If you enjoy a touch of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a subtle kick. This will add another layer of flavor and complexity to the salad.
6. Marinate Cucumbers (Optional): For an extra burst of flavor in the cucumber cups, you can lightly marinate the scooped-out cucumber cups in a mixture of lemon juice, salt, and a touch of dill for about 15 minutes before filling them. This will infuse them with flavor and soften them slightly.
7. Make Ahead Components, Assemble Just Before Serving: You can prepare the shrimp salad and the cucumber cups separately ahead of time. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and the cucumber cups wrapped in plastic wrap. Assemble the salad cups just before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy and to maintain the freshest presentation.
8. Garnish Creatively: Don’t underestimate the power of a beautiful garnish! A sprig of fresh dill, a sprinkle of paprika, a tiny lemon wedge, or even a few microgreens can elevate the presentation of your salad cups and make them even more appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Shrimp and Cucumber Salad

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely according to package instructions before using. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before adding them to the salad. Pre-cooked frozen shrimp is a convenient and readily available option.

Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the shrimp salad mixture up to a day ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to prepare the cucumber cups and assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy and ensure the freshest presentation.

Q3: How long does Chilled Shrimp and Cucumber Salad last in the fridge?

A: The shrimp salad itself will last for up to 2 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, for the best quality and texture, it’s recommended to consume it within 24 hours. The cucumber cups are best used the same day they are prepared to maintain their crispness.

Q4: Can I substitute the fresh dill with dried dill?

A: While fresh dill is highly recommended for its vibrant flavor, you can substitute it with dried dill in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill for every tablespoon of fresh dill. Keep in mind that dried dill has a more concentrated flavor, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize this salad by adding other vegetables you enjoy. Some great additions would be diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), finely chopped celery for extra crunch, or halved cherry tomatoes for sweetness and color.

Q6: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, this Chilled Shrimp and Cucumber Salad is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat, barley, or rye ingredients. Always double-check the labels of your Dijon mustard to ensure it is certified gluten-free if you are strictly following a gluten-free diet.

Q7: Is this recipe dairy-free?

A: Yes, this recipe is also dairy-free as it does not contain any milk, cheese, or other dairy products. It relies on olive oil and avocado for richness and creaminess, making it suitable for those with dairy sensitivities or intolerances.

Q8: Can I make this salad spicier?

A: Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level of this salad to your liking. As mentioned in the tips, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing is a simple way to add heat. You can also add a dash of hot sauce, such as Tabasco or sriracha, to the dressing for a more pronounced spicy kick. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.

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