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Coastal Shrimp Salad

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ lbs medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp red onion, finely diced
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Pinch of paprika (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Fill a medium pot with water and add Old Bay seasoning, salt, and the juice of half a lemon. Bring to a full boil.
  • Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and curl into a loose C shape. Do not overcook.
  • Drain the shrimp immediately and spread them out on a plate or sheet pan to cool completely. Do not add to dressing while warm.
  • Once fully cooled, roughly chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces, about 2 to 3 pieces per shrimp depending on size.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth and combined.
  • Add the chopped shrimp, diced celery, red onion, and fresh dill to the bowl. Fold everything together gently until evenly coated.
  • Taste and adjust salt and lemon juice as needed. Start with less dressing and add more only if needed.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes before serving for best flavor. Serve cold on toasted rolls, crackers, lettuce cups, or over greens. Garnish with a pinch of paprika if desired.

Notes

Make sure your shrimp are fully cooled before mixing into the dressing — warm shrimp will break the mayo and make the whole salad feel greasy. When in doubt, give them an extra few minutes to cool down.
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