Classic Shrimp Delight

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 6 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying, this Classic Shrimp Delight is your go-to recipe. Perfect for summer gatherings or a light dinner, it combines succulent shrimp with vibrant veggies and a creamy lemon dressing that hits all the right notes.

Ingredients for Classic Shrimp Delight

Shrimp serves as the star of the dish, offering a sweet and slightly briny flavor that's complemented by the creamy dressing. Olive oil is used for cooking the shrimp and adds a subtle richness. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the shrimp. Cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness, while cucumber adds crunch and freshness. Red onion contributes a sharp, slightly spicy contrast. Fresh parsley provides a pop of color and herbaceous note. The dressing, made with lemon juice, lemon zest, mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard, ties everything together with its creamy, tangy profile.

Tips & Tricks

  • To save time, buy shrimp that's already peeled and deveined.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—bottled just won't have the same zing.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

This shrimp delight works beautifully as a light lunch or dinner. Pair it with a crusty baguette or a side of quinoa for a more filling meal. It also makes a fantastic topping for a leafy green salad or a hearty grain bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
How long does this dish keep in the fridge?
It’s best enjoyed within 2 days when stored in an airtight container.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative that still maintains creaminess.

Classic Shrimp Delight Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating a skillet over medium heat. Drizzle in the olive oil, letting it warm up. Meanwhile, season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque—watching them transform is always a treat!

After cooking, transfer the shrimp to a plate and let them cool down a bit. While they cool, grab a large bowl and toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and zest with mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

Once the shrimp have cooled, add them to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top, and gently toss everything to ensure it's evenly coated. For the best flavor, let the dish chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving—it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • A healthy choice, packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein.
  • The lemony dressing adds a zesty kick that brightens up the whole dish.
  • Perfectly versatile—serve it as a main or a refreshing side.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp sour cream
1 tsp Dijon mustard

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
2. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, and add to the skillet.
3. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and let them cool.
5. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard.
7. Add the cooled shrimp to the vegetable mixture.
8. Pour the dressing over the shrimp and vegetables, tossing gently to combine.
9. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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