If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that bursts with bright flavors and creamy textures, this Lemon Dill Shrimp Salad Recipe is absolutely your new go-to. It’s a delightful melody of succulent shrimp, crisp cucumber, and zesty lime, all tied together with a luscious homemade dressing infused with fresh dill. Perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or an elegant appetizer, this salad manages to be both simple and sophisticated, making every bite a celebration of freshness and vibrancy. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become a favorite you want to share with everyone you know!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl with one layer of bright orange cooked shrimp inside, surrounded by a layer of white ice cubes floating in cold water. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface, showing the contrast of the shrimp color against the cool ice. The shrimp have a firm texture and are curled, with their white and orange coloring clear against the transparent water in the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Lemon Dill Shrimp Salad Recipe is carefully selected to balance flavor, texture, and color. Fresh herbs and citrus elevate the shrimp’s natural sweetness, while creamy components add the perfect touch of richness without overwhelming the salad.

2 pounds shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh shrimp are essential for that tender, juicy base packed with protein.
1 English cucumber (small diced): Adds crispness and a cool contrast to the creamy dressing.
3 green onions (thinly sliced): Their mild sharpness gives a nice bite without overpowering the dish.
⅓ cup mayonnaise: Brings creaminess and binds the salad together beautifully.
⅓ cup sour cream: Adds tang and a silky texture for richness without heaviness.
1 large lime (zested and juiced): The zest offers aromatic oils, and the juice adds zingy brightness.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill: This herb gives the salad its signature fresh, slightly anise-like flavor.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Provides subtle spice and complexity to the dressing.
1 garlic clove (minced): A tiny punch of pungency to deepen the flavor profile.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances acidity.
Freshly ground pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle warmth without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

How to Make Lemon Dill Shrimp Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by whisking together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest and juice, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, and a pinch of freshly ground pepper. This dressing is where the magic begins; its creamy tang perfectly complements the shrimp and veggies. Set it aside or pop it in the fridge so the flavors can meld while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, then gently add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until they turn a lovely opaque pink and curl slightly. Don’t overcook them—tender shrimp are the star of this salad, so patience during this step is key.

Step 3: Chill the Shrimp

While the shrimp are cooking, get an ice water bath ready. Once the shrimp are cooked, use a skimmer to transfer them immediately to the ice bath. This quick chill stops the cooking process and locks in that perfect, firm texture. After about 3 minutes, drain the shrimp thoroughly in a colander and chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the chopped shrimp, sliced green onions, diced cucumber, and your flavorful dressing together. Make sure everything is evenly coated in that creamy dressing, creating a harmonious blend of fresh crunch and succulent seafood. Your Lemon Dill Shrimp Salad Recipe is now ready to impress!

How to Serve Lemon Dill Shrimp Salad Recipe

A bowl of shrimp salad with three main layers: the bottom layer is soft, pink shrimp pieces, the middle layer has small light-green cucumber cubes mixed with green scallion slices, and the top layer is a light creamy sauce spread evenly with small dark green dill flakes sprinkled throughout. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface with sliced bright green lime wedges, a whole lime, and green scallions in the background. A woman's hand holds a black-handled knife on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra chopped fresh dill or a few thin lemon slices on top not only makes your presentation pop, but also adds an extra burst of herbal brightness and citrus aroma before every bite. A light drizzle of olive oil or a crack of fresh black pepper can enhance the dish beautifully as well.

Side Dishes

This shrimp salad shines on its own, but pairing it with crusty artisan bread or buttery croissants can add a comforting touch. Serving it alongside a crisp green salad or some grilled asparagus offers a lovely contrast in texture, making it a complete meal that feels light yet satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant party, serve the Lemon Dill Shrimp Salad Recipe in individual lettuce cups or hollowed-out avocado halves to impress your guests. Alternatively, spoon it atop toasted baguette slices for delightful shrimp salad crostini. This versatility makes it perfect for casual lunches or more sophisticated gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Lemon Dill Shrimp Salad will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, give it a gentle stir before serving; the flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the day after you make it.

Freezing

Because this salad contains mayonnaise and fresh vegetables, freezing is not recommended as it could affect texture and safety. For best results, prepare fresh servings when you crave it rather than freezing leftovers.

Reheating

This shrimp salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating as this will compromise the freshness and crispness that make this Lemon Dill Shrimp Salad Recipe so special.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just thaw them completely before cooking to ensure they cook evenly and maintain the best texture for the salad.

Is there a good substitute for mayonnaise?

If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute that still provides creaminess and adds a pleasant tanginess.

How can I make this salad gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as is, but double-check labels on Dijon mustard and mayonnaise to be sure they don’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I add other vegetables or fruits?

Absolutely! Diced avocado or cherry tomatoes would bring a lovely creaminess or sweetness, respectively. Feel free to experiment, but keep the balance of textures and flavors in mind.

What’s the best way to serve this for a party?

Consider serving the salad in small lettuce cups or on crackers for an elegant finger-food presentation that guests will love and find easy to enjoy while mingling.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, this Lemon Dill Shrimp Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Its bright, creamy flavors delight the palate while being wonderfully easy to throw together. Give it a try—you might find yourself reaching for it again and again for effortless entertaining and weekday lunches alike!