There’s something undeniably refreshing about a cool, vibrant shrimp salad, especially when you can whip it up in no time. I discovered this New York Deli Shrimp Salad on a lazy Sunday afternoon, where I found myself craving the kind of comfort food that feels both indulgent and light. Picture this: tender shrimp tossed in a creamy sauce with pops of crunchy celery and zesty dill, all ready to elevate your dining experience.
This recipe not only satisfies my seafood cravings but also delivers a flavor explosion that rivals your favorite deli’s dish, minus the hassle of dining out. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick lunch option, this salad checks all the boxes—it’s easy, versatile, and sure to impress both your family and guests. So, let’s dive into this delectable world of New York Deli Shrimp Salad and make your next meal a standout!
Why is New York Deli Shrimp Salad irresistible?
Freshness meets flavor: Crisp veggies combined with plump shrimp create a delightful blend that refreshes your palate.
Quick preparation: The shrimp cooks in just 90 seconds—perfect for busy schedules without compromising taste.
Versatile dish: Ideal as a main course, side dish, or appetizer, making it suitable for any occasion.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve this salad at your next gathering, and watch it disappear in minutes!
Light yet satisfying: It’s a refreshing break from heavy meals while still satisfying those seafood cravings.
Elevate your culinary skills and delight everyone with this delicious recipe!
New York Deli Shrimp Salad Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• 1.5 pounds shrimp (31-40 count) – peeled, deveined, and tails removed for a tender bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – helps the shrimp stay juicy and tender during cooking.
• 1/2 teaspoon Diamond Crystal Kosher salt – enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor.
For Cooking
• 8 cups water – provides the base for boiling the shrimp.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – adds brightness to the cooking water for added flavor.
For the Salad
• 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning – gives the salad that classic deli taste.
• 1/2 cup finely diced celery – contributes a nice crunch and freshness.
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion – adds a zesty bite to balance the creaminess.
• 1 tablespoon dill, minced – infuses the salad with a fresh herbal note.
For the Sauce
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise – the creamy base that ties all the flavors together.
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning – enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad.
• 1 teaspoon celery seed – provides an aromatic touch that complements the other ingredients.
• 2 ounces lemon juice – brightens the sauce and adds acidity to cut through richness.
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard – brings a tangy depth that elevates the flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – adjust according to your preference for heightened flavors.
Now that you have the New York Deli Shrimp Salad ingredients at your fingertips, you’re poised to create a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress any diners around your table!
How to Make New York Deli Shrimp Salad
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Prep the shrimp: In a bowl, mix the shrimp with baking soda, salt, and Old Bay seasoning. Allow it to set for 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors and texture.
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Prepare the ice bath: While the shrimp rests, fill a large bowl with ice water. This will help stop the cooking process once the shrimp are boiled, keeping them tender.
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Boil the water: In a large pot, combine 8 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Bring it to a rolling boil, filling the kitchen with a zesty aroma.
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Cook the shrimp: Gently add the seasoned shrimp to the boiling water, cooking for just 90 seconds or until they turn slightly opaque. Watch the color change—this means they are perfectly done!
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Shock the shrimp: Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp to the ice water bath. Let them cool for a few minutes, ensuring they stop cooking and maintain that juicy texture.
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Drain and dry: Using a colander, drain the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps prevent the salad from becoming watery later on.
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Mix the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, celery seed, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended, tasting and adjusting as needed.
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Combine shrimp and sauce: Add the cooled shrimp to the sauce mixture along with the chopped celery, red onion, and dill. Gently coat the shrimp, ensuring every piece is deliciously covered.
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Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve: If you prefer a dryer salad, strain the shrimp through a colander to drain excess liquid before serving. This dish is best enjoyed cold—perfect for a sunny day or special occasion!
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These New York Deli Shrimp Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can cook and cool the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance—just be sure to leave them in the ice bath for a few minutes after boiling to maintain that juicy texture. Additionally, mix the sauce ingredients and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before you combine it with the shrimp. To maintain the salad’s delightful flavor, refrigerate the completed salad for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) after mixing. Just strain any excess liquid before serving to keep it fresh and dry. You’ll savor restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Helpful Tricks for New York Deli Shrimp Salad
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Perfect Shrimp Cook: Keep an eye on the shrimp; cooking them for 90 seconds ensures they remain tender and juicy. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
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Chill Effectively: Shocking the shrimp in ice water immediately after boiling halts the cooking process, locking in that delightful texture and flavor.
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Balance the Flavors: Taste the sauce after mixing and don’t shy away from adjusting the seasoning. You want a vibrant mix of freshness and creamy richness in your New York Deli Shrimp Salad.
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Prep Ahead: For a tastier salad, allow it to chill overnight. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together, resulting in a richer taste.
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Adjust for Texture: If you love a drier salad, make sure to drain excess liquid before serving. A well-drained shrimp salad is less watery and more enjoyable.
What to Serve with New York Deli Shrimp Salad?
Crafting the perfect meal around your vibrant shrimp salad can elevate your dining experience to new heights.
- Crunchy Toast Points: Serve these golden-brown bites for a textural contrast, perfect for scooping up that creamy goodness.
- Zesty Coleslaw: A slaw with a tangy dressing adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the shrimp salad beautifully.
- Garlic Butter Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks are ideal for mopping up any excess sauce left on your plate. Their comforting texture pairs perfectly with the salad.
- Cucumber Mint Salad: This light and crisp salad refreshes your palate with its cool flavors, making it a perfect counterbalance to the savory shrimp.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc offers a wonderful interplay of acidity to brighten each bite of shrimp salad.
- Deviled Eggs: Serve these classic starters alongside for a nostalgic touch that both complements and contrasts the seafood flavors.
- Fruit Medley: Sweet, seasonal fruits add a touch of natural sweetness that rounds out the meal with juicy freshness and color.
- Classic Potato Chips: Their salty crunch provides a fun counterpoint to the creamy salad, inviting casual enjoyment while mingling on the table.
- Lemon Sorbet: Opt for this light and zesty dessert to cleanse your palate after the rich flavors of the shrimp salad.
- Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa, tossed with fresh herbs, brings additional nutrition and pairs delicately without overpowering the shrimp flavor.
Storage Tips for New York Deli Shrimp Salad
Fridge: Store the shrimp salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while preserving the delightful flavors.
Freezer: Avoid freezing as this can change the texture of the shrimp and the creamy sauce, making it less enjoyable.
Reheating: If serving leftovers, enjoy them cold straight from the fridge. For best results, do not reheat as it can overcook the shrimp.
Preparing Ahead: For optimal flavor, make your New York Deli Shrimp Salad a day in advance and let it chill overnight for the best experience!
New York Deli Shrimp Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this shrimp salad to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the mayonnaise for a zesty punch. Just the right amount of heat can elevate the flavors significantly.
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Athlete-Friendly: Swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten up the dish while keeping it creamy. This adds a tangy flavor and boosts the nutrition—making it a win-win!
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Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley instead of dill for a unique twist. Each herb brings its character, giving the salad a fresh facade.
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Crunchy Texture: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an unexpected crunch that complements the tender shrimp beautifully. The added bite will have your guests talking!
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Fruit Fusion: Add diced apples or mango for a sweet contrast to the savory shrimp and creamy sauce. This addition brings a refreshing pop of flavor that’ll surprise your palate.
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Vegan Option: Replace shrimp with chickpeas or cooked lentils for a plant-based alternative. The creamy dressing still works beautifully—offering a complete meal that’s satisfying and full of protein.
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Grain Blend: Serve over a bed of quinoa or mixed greens for a heartier experience. Combining your salad with grains transforms it into a fulfilling meal that can stand alone.
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Citrus Burst: Mix in segments of orange or grapefruit for an unexpected yet delightful citrus addition. The bright acidity brightens every bite, making the dish an even more refreshing experience!
New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for my salad?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for wild-caught varieties if possible, as they tend to have better flavor and texture. Fresh shrimp should have a mild ocean scent—avoid any with a strong, fishy smell. For convenience, frozen shrimp can be a great option; just ensure they are properly thawed before cooking.
How should I store leftover shrimp salad?
Very simple! Transfer any leftover New York Deli Shrimp Salad into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving, as some liquid may separate during storage.
Can I freeze the shrimp salad?
I recommend avoiding this if possible. While the shrimp might be safe to freeze, the creamy sauce will not hold its texture well and can become grainy upon thawing. If you do need to freeze some, separate the shrimp from the sauce and freeze for up to 3 months, then mix them fresh after thawing.
What if my shrimp are overcooked?
Oh no! If your shrimp ends up overcooked, don’t worry too much. You might find them a bit rubbery, but you can always add more creamy sauce to balance out the texture. To avoid overcooking next time, stick to the 90-second cooking time and keep an eye on their color change.
Is this shrimp salad suitable for people with allergies?
Definitely! Just be cautious about the ingredients you use. This recipe contains shrimp, mayonnaise, and mustard, so it’s not suitable for those with shellfish allergies or egg sensitivities. If needed, you can swap the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative to avoid egg content.
How can I make this shrimp salad healthier?
A wonderful idea! You can lighten it up by reducing the amount of mayonnaise or substituting some of it with Greek yogurt, which adds creaminess and a protein boost. Also, consider adding more fresh veggies like diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition.
New York Deli Shrimp Salad for a Fresh Twist on Tradition
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix the shrimp with baking soda, salt, and Old Bay seasoning. Allow it to set for 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors and texture.
- While the shrimp rests, fill a large bowl with ice water to help stop the cooking process once the shrimp are boiled.
- In a large pot, combine 8 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Bring it to a rolling boil.
- Gently add the seasoned shrimp to the boiling water, cooking for just 90 seconds or until they turn slightly opaque.
- Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp to the ice water bath. Let them cool for a few minutes.
- Using a colander, drain the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, celery seed, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Add the cooled shrimp to the sauce mixture along with the chopped celery, red onion, and dill. Gently coat the shrimp.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- If you prefer a dryer salad, strain the shrimp through a colander to drain excess liquid before serving.