Easy Shrimp Salad Recipe

This easy shrimp salad comes together fast with simple ingredients and no cooking if you start with pre-cooked shrimp. Just mix, chill and and you've got a great seafood lunch or dinner.

Turn a bag of frozen cooked shrimp into an easy lunch that's fresh, simple, and ready in minutes. This shrimp salad comes together fast with cooked shrimp and a few fridge staples, so it's easy to make without planning ahead.

It's a mix of tender shrimp, a creamy dressing with lemon and Dijon, and a little crunch from celery and red onion. Serve it right away or chill it for later. It works for lunches, light dinners, or easy entertaining.

Ingredients you'll need

• Cooked shrimp - The easiest option is buying shrimp that's already cooked, peeled, and deveined. If it's frozen, thaw it in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. If you're starting with raw shrimp, boil in a large pot of salted water just until cooked, then transfer to ice water to stop the cooking.
• Celery - Adds fresh crunch to the salad.
• Red onion - Finely dice it so you get a little bite without overpowering. You can sub green onion if you prefer.
• Mayonnaise - Use one you like the flavor of since it's the base of the dressing. Look for a simple ingredient list without additives.
• Fresh lemon juice - Adds brightness and balances the richness of the mayo.
• Dijon mustard - Use your favorite mustard.
• Capers - These bring a tangy, briny flavor that works well with the shrimp.
• Fresh dill - Adds that classic seafood salad flavor.
• Sea salt and pepper - Season to taste.

How to make it

1. Add the shrimp, diced celery, and minced red onion to a large mixing bowl.
2. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, and dill. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Gently fold the dressing into the shrimp mixture until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill until ready to serve.

Variations

Here are a few ways to change it up.

• More seafood - Add crab for a mixed seafood salad.
• Add avocado - Dice and fold it in just before serving for a creamy addition.
• More vegetables - Try diced red bell pepper or green onion.
• Spice it up - Add Old Bay seafood seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Different fresh herbs - Try parsley, chives or other soft herbs if you don't have dill.

Serving ideas

• Serve it over a bed of greens for a simple salad.
• Spoon it into Bibb or romaine lettuce cups for an easy handheld option.
• Add it to a sandwich or wrap, or serve it in a split bun like a lobster roll.
• Serve with crackers for a quick snack or light meal.

Storing leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a quick stir before serving since the dressing may settle a bit.

More easy shrimp recipes

If you have extra shrimp or want to try something different, here are a few easy options.

• Try this fresh, simple shrimp arugula salad with a light, lemony flavor that works well for lunch or an appetizer.
• Smoked shrimp is an easy option you can make on the grill or in a smoker.
• This garlic roasted shrimp is a quick sheet pan recipe with a simple sauce to serve over zoodles.
• Shrimp cocktail is always a classic, especially with this easy homemade cocktail sauce.