Maryland Shrimp Salad
A refreshing Maryland Shrimp Salad featuring tender cooked shrimp, creamy cheese, and crunchy celery, set in a gelatin mold, perfect for elegant gatherings or summer picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve gelatin in 1/2 cup cold water.
- Heat tomato soup.
- Add cream cheese to the heated soup.
- Blend until smooth.
- Add chopped celery, chopped pepper, chopped onion, and cooked shrimp to the mixture.
- Pour into a mold and refrigerate until set.
- Serve on lettuce leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or some Old Bay seasoning to the mixture before setting it. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. For a more colorful dish, add diced bell peppers or fresh herbs like dill. This salad can also be adapted by including avocado for creaminess or using crab meat instead of shrimp for a seafood twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Maryland Shrimp Salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing appetizer or light lunch. It pairs well with crusty bread or crackers for added texture. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside a light pasta dish, such as Pasta With Scallops And Lemon Mustard Butter, or a refreshing side salad. This dish also makes a great addition to a summer picnic or buffet.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat as it may alter the texture. This dish is best enjoyed cold, so serving it chilled is recommended. If desired, serve it again on fresh lettuce leaves for a light meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maryland Shrimp Salad contains roughly 459 calories, with 11g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (151% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 699mg per serving (30% 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 fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh shrimp! Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding them to the mixture. Fresh shrimp will enhance the overall flavor and texture of the salad, making it even more delicious.
How long does it take for the salad to set in the refrigerator?
Typically, the salad should set for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator. For best results, consider letting it sit overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and achieve the perfect consistency.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Maryland Shrimp Salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just prepare the salad, pour it into the mold, and refrigerate it. This makes it an excellent choice for parties or gatherings, as it allows you to save time on the day of your event.
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).