A Cool, Herby Coastal Classic

This refreshing Mediterranean salad combines tender shrimp, crisp cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a creamy yogurt-based dressing. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for warm days, family meals, or as a classy side dish.

🌿 Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 450 g (1 lb) shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 2 large cucumbers, sliced into thick rounds or half-moons
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Mediterranean Creamy Dressing:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat for best taste)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins (Mediterranean Style):

  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
  • A pinch of smoked paprika or sumac

🍤 Instructions

1. Cook the Shrimp

  • Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a gentle boil.
  • Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque.
  • Immediately transfer shrimp to an ice bath to stop cooking.
  • Drain well and pat dry.

Tip: You can also sauté shrimp in olive oil for 2 minutes per side for deeper flavor.

2. Prepare the Cucumbers

  • Wash cucumbers well (peel if desired).
  • Slice into thick rounds or chunks.
  • Lightly sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry to remove excess water (keeps salad creamy, not watery).

3. Make the Dressing

  • In a large bowl, whisk together:
    • Greek yogurt
    • Olive oil
    • Lemon juice & zest
    • Garlic
    • Dill, parsley, oregano
    • Salt & pepper
  • Taste and adjust seasoning.

4. Assemble the Salad

  • Add cucumbers to the dressing and gently mix.
  • Fold in the cooked shrimp carefully so they stay whole and juicy.
  • Add feta, onion, or spices if using.
  • Chill for 20–30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

  • Serve cold as a Mediterranean mezze dish
  • Pair with pita bread or flatbread
  • Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or rice
  • Enjoy as a light lunch or summer dinner

⭐ Why This Recipe Works

  • Greek yogurt keeps it creamy but light
  • Fresh herbs bring true Mediterranean flavor
  • Lemon and olive oil add brightness and balance
  • Cool, crisp, and satisfying without being heavy

If you’d like, I can:

  • Make it dairy-free
  • Turn it into a pasta or rice bowl
  • Write a restaurant menu description
  • Adjust it for meal prep