This classic shrimp salad recipe brings a taste of nostalgia to your table. Creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh ingredients, it’s a perfect dish for a light lunch, a summer picnic, or a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Shrimp salad, often overlooked, is a true gem among seafood salads. While chicken or tuna salad have their place, this Old Fashioned Shrimp Salad offers a unique flavor profile that’s both refreshing and comforting. This recipe focuses on creating the best shrimp salad experience with a simple yet flavorful approach.
This old fashioned shrimp salad recipe was inspired by a cherished memory of enjoying shrimp salad on a Caribbean cruise. That first taste of creamy, chilled shrimp combined with crunchy vegetables sparked a quest to recreate and perfect the dish at home. The result is a recipe that emphasizes fresh ingredients and a homemade touch.
The key to this old fashioned shrimp salad lies in its bright and tangy dressing. Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a citrusy kick, while a generous amount of chopped fresh herbs adds an aromatic depth. While poaching shrimp is an option, this recipe utilizes pre-cooked cocktail shrimp for convenience, making it a quick and easy meal to prepare.
Making Your Old Fashioned Shrimp Salad
Creating this classic dish is surprisingly simple. The most challenging part is waiting for the flavors to meld together in the refrigerator.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound extra small cooked shrimp, cooled
- ½ cup finely diced celery
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Combine the cooled shrimp, diced celery, and red onion in a medium-sized bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, grated garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced dill, minced parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture and stir gently to coat everything evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Serving Your Old Fashioned Shrimp Salad
This versatile salad can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Classic Shrimp Salad Sandwich: Serve on toasted white bread or a croissant for a traditional experience.
- Lettuce Cups: For a lighter option, spoon the salad into crisp lettuce cups.
- Crackers or Crostini: Enjoy as a dip with your favorite crackers or toasted baguette slices.
- Over a Bed of Greens: Add a scoop of shrimp salad to a mixed green salad for a complete and refreshing meal.
Tips and Variations
- Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp: You can use either fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before adding to the salad. For a truly old fashioned taste, consider using fresh, wild-caught shrimp.
- Greek Yogurt: For a healthier twist, substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a touch of heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like chives, tarragon, or cilantro.
This old fashioned shrimp salad recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic dish. With its simple preparation and versatile serving options, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
