The Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a light and refreshing dish perfect for warm weather or a quick, nutritious meal. With tender shrimp, crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and the zesty brightness of lemon and dill, this salad brings together texture and flavor in every bite. It’s colorful, hydrating, and incredibly satisfying.
Whether you’re following a low-carb or gluten-free lifestyle, or just looking to eat a bit lighter, this no-cook recipe checks every box. It’s easy to prep in minutes, customizable with your favorite herbs, and makes a beautiful dish for entertaining or enjoying solo on the patio. Pair it with sparkling water or chilled white wine for the ultimate summer meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
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1 avocado, diced
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1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, avocado, and fresh dill.
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Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl and gently toss with the vegetables.
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
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Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal that’s easy to make and full of nutrients, the Cucumber Shrimp Salad is the perfect answer. This vibrant, no-cook salad brings together chilled, juicy shrimp with crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and aromatic dill for a dish that’s not only beautiful on the plate but also incredibly refreshing and delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or entertaining guests on a sunny afternoon, this recipe offers a balanced blend of textures, flavors, and health benefits that make it a true standout in the world of healthy eating.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind Cucumber Shrimp Salad
Shrimp salads have long been a staple in cuisines around the world, especially in coastal regions where seafood is a dietary mainstay. From Thai shrimp salads with chili and lime to Scandinavian versions with mayonnaise and dill, shrimp’s delicate flavor and versatility make it a favorite choice for fresh, cold dishes. This version, however, takes inspiration from Mediterranean simplicity, combining raw vegetables, high-quality olive oil, and a light vinegar-based dressing to let each ingredient shine without being overpowered.
Cucumber adds hydration and crunch, while avocado contributes creaminess and healthy fats. The red onion gives just a touch of sharpness, balanced by the sweetness of the shrimp and the brightness of lemon juice and dill. It’s a modern take on a classic idea—perfect for today’s health-conscious, flavor-loving eaters.
Why This Salad Stands Out
There are hundreds of shrimp salad variations out there—but this cucumber shrimp salad is truly unique in its refreshing minimalism. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
1. No Cooking Required
On those hot days when turning on the oven sounds unbearable, this salad is a dream. With pre-cooked shrimp and raw veggies, the only “cooking” you’ll do is chopping and whisking together a quick vinaigrette.
2. Incredibly Nutritious
Each ingredient contributes to your health:
- Shrimp is high in lean protein and low in calories, with nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine.
- Cucumbers are hydrating, low in carbs, and rich in antioxidants.
- Avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber.
- Fresh dill offers antibacterial properties and is rich in flavonoids and vitamin C.
- Olive oil and lemon juice bring anti-inflammatory benefits and improve nutrient absorption.
3. Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, and Keto-Friendly
This salad fits beautifully into a wide range of dietary lifestyles. It’s naturally gluten-free, low in carbs, and works well for anyone following a keto or paleo diet.
4. Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Friendly
You can easily make this salad ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to two days (just leave the avocado out until serving to avoid browning). It’s a great grab-and-go lunch or light dinner option.
5. Bursting With Fresh Flavor
Thanks to the bright lemon vinaigrette, crisp cucumbers, and aromatic dill, every bite feels clean, zesty, and satisfying without being heavy or overly seasoned.
Health Benefits You’ll Love
Let’s dive deeper into what this salad does for your body:
Hydration & Detoxification
Cucumbers are made up of about 96% water, making them an excellent way to stay hydrated. They also contain detoxifying compounds that can help flush out toxins and support digestion.
Healthy Fats for Heart and Skin
Avocados are rich in oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat linked to reduced inflammation and better heart health. Plus, the vitamin E content promotes radiant skin and supports cell regeneration.
Protein Power from Shrimp
Shrimp is one of the most protein-dense foods you can eat. Just 3 ounces of shrimp delivers over 20 grams of high-quality protein with very few calories or carbs. This makes it perfect for muscle maintenance and satiety.
Dill for Digestive Ease
Traditionally used in herbal medicine, dill can ease bloating, calm indigestion, and add flavor without extra sodium or calories.
Antioxidants from Red Onion
Red onions contain quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and reduces inflammation. Their flavor adds depth and sharpness to balance the creamy and crisp components of the salad.
Customization Ideas to Make It Your Own
This salad is very versatile, which means you can tweak it to match your preferences, dietary needs, or what’s in your fridge:
- Add Cherry Tomatoes for sweetness and a pop of color.
- Swap Dill for Fresh Basil or Cilantro for a completely different herbal note.
- Add a Dash of Feta Cheese if you want a Mediterranean flair with a creamy, tangy finish.
- Toss in Leafy Greens like arugula or baby spinach to bulk it up and turn it into a shrimp salad bowl.
- Include a Touch of Spice with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you love heat.
- Change Up the Dressing with a creamy avocado-lime blend or Greek yogurt base for something different.
When to Serve This Salad
This cucumber shrimp salad is elegant enough for a dinner party but easy enough for weekday meal prep. Here are some perfect occasions to enjoy it:
- Summer BBQ or Picnic – It’s cool, refreshing, and portable.
- Quick Work Lunch – Light and energizing, without the post-meal crash.
- Healthy Dinner – Pair it with sparkling water or white wine for a satisfying end-of-day meal.
- Brunch Side Dish – It balances beautifully with quiches or egg dishes.
- Appetizer for Gatherings – Serve it in small cups or on lettuce leaves for a chic starter.
Final Thoughts
The Cucumber Shrimp Salad is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming. With minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and endless customizations, it’s the kind of go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet, trying to eat more seafood, or just craving something light and refreshing, this dish checks every box.
Try it once, and you’ll be hooked. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good—inside and out.
Conclusion
The Cucumber Shrimp Salad is more than just a light and refreshing dish—it’s a celebration of simplicity, nutrition, and vibrant flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick lunch, a healthy dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe delivers every time. With protein-packed shrimp, hydrating cucumbers, creamy avocado, and a bright lemon-dill dressing, it’s the kind of meal that satisfies your cravings while keeping you energized and nourished.
Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, customizable to your taste, and perfect for anyone looking to eat clean without sacrificing flavor. Once you try it, you’ll see why this cucumber shrimp salad deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.