Aunt Margaret'S Shrimp Salad
A flavorful shrimp salad featuring a creamy dill and poppy seed dressing, complemented by cheese, olives, bacon bits, and croutons, perfect for light lunches or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shrimp, cheese cut into 1/4 inch cubes, chopped olives, bacon bits, and croutons in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, dill weed, poppy seed, and garlic salt to taste to make the dressing.
- Either spoon the sauce over the shrimp mixture or fold it in gently to coat evenly.
- Serve on lettuce leaves for a fresh presentation.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a little more sour cream or mayonnaise based on your preference. If you're looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream. You can also use any cheese you prefer, such as feta or cheddar, to customize the flavor. If you like a bit of heat, try adding diced jalapeños to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing dish. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers, making it a perfect appetizer or light meal. For a full meal, consider serving it alongside a side of Cheese-Bacon Stuffed Potatoes for a satisfying combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even tastier the next day. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp mixture in a skillet over low heat until just heated through, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Margaret'S Shrimp Salad contains roughly 595 calories, with 29g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1484mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before mixing with the other ingredients. This helps maintain the texture of the salad.
What kind of cheese works best in this salad?
While the recipe calls for a generic cheese, sharp cheddar or creamy mozzarella work particularly well. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese to find the perfect flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this shrimp salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp salad a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).