Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad

A Light, Refreshing, and Healthy Low-Carb Recipe

Creamy Cucumber Shrimp Salad is a fresh, protein-rich dish that combines tender shrimp, crisp cucumbers, and a cool, creamy yogurt dressing. It is perfect for warm weather, quick lunches, light dinners, or meal prep. This salad is naturally low in carbohydrates, high in protein, and suitable for diabetics and weight management when prepared with unsweetened Greek yogurt.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light, refreshing, and not heavy
• High in lean protein
• Low-carb and diabetes-friendly
• Quick and easy to prepare
• No cooking required if shrimp is already cooked
• Great as a main dish or side dish

 Ingredients

Salad

• 1 lb (450 g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (English or Persian cucumbers work best)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped

Creamy Yogurt Dressing

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened, low-fat or full-fat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

 Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk or fork
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels. Make sure the shrimp are fully cooked, peeled, and deveined. You may leave them whole or cut them in half for easier eating.

Step 2: Slice the Vegetables

• Thinly slice the cucumbers for a crisp, refreshing texture
• Cut cherry tomatoes in half
• Slice red onion very thinly (optional, for added flavor)

Place all vegetables into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl with cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion. Gently toss everything together to distribute evenly.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Greek yogurt
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper

Whisk until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Mix Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the shrimp and vegetables. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated, being careful not to break the shrimp.

Step 6: Add Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle chopped fresh dill or parsley over the salad and gently mix again. Herbs add freshness and enhance the overall flavor.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to blend and makes the salad even more refreshing.

Serve cold.

 Serving Suggestions

• Serve on its own as a light meal
• Pair with whole-grain toast or crackers
• Serve over leafy greens for extra volume
• Enjoy as a side dish at barbecues or picnics

 Tips for Best Results

• Use English cucumbers to avoid excess water
• Pat shrimp dry to prevent a watery salad
• Do not over-mix to keep shrimp intact
• Always use unsweetened Greek yogurt
• Chill before serving for best flavor

 Variations

• Extra Protein: Add avocado or boiled eggs
• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or paprika
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt alternative
• Mediterranean Style: Add olives and feta (optional)

 Nutrition Highlights (Approximate)

• High protein from shrimp and yogurt
• Low carbohydrate
• Low added fat
• Diabetic-friendly
• Supports weight management

 Time Breakdown

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Chilling time: 15–20 minutes
• Total time: ~30–35 minutes