Description
A classic New York Deli Shrimp Salad featuring tender poached shrimp tossed in a flavorful Old Bay and lemon-infused mayonnaise dressing, accented with crisp celery, red onion, and fresh dill. Perfect as a refreshing entree or sandwich filling, this recipe brings deli-style charm to your table in just 23 minutes of active prep and cooking time.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Poaching
- 1.5 pounds shrimp (31-40 count, peeled, deveined, tails removed)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Diamond Crystal Kosher salt
- 8 cups water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
Salad
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 tablespoon dill (minced, plus more to taste)
Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 2 ounces lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Poaching the shrimp: Combine the shrimp with baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning in a bowl, mixing well. Let the shrimp marinate for 15-20 minutes to enhance texture and flavor.
- Prepare ice bath: Fill a large bowl with ice water and set aside to shock the shrimp after cooking, which stops the cooking process and preserves tenderness.
- Cook the shrimp: Bring 8 cups of water and 1 tablespoon lemon juice to a boil in a large pot. Add the shrimp and boil for 90 seconds, or until they just turn slightly opaque. Immediately transfer shrimp to the ice water bath to cool. Once chilled, drain in a colander and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning, celery seed, 2 ounces lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced dill, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine salad: Add the dried shrimp, diced celery, and diced red onion to the dressing. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Chill the salad: Cover the shrimp salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and deepen.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally drain excess liquid from the shrimp salad using a colander for a dryer texture. Serve immediately and enjoy your deli-style shrimp salad!
Notes
- Using baking soda in the shrimp marinade helps tenderize the shrimp.
- Poaching shrimp briefly and shocking in ice water keeps them juicy and prevents overcooking.
- Allowing the salad to chill overnight improves flavor integration.
- If a less creamy salad is preferred, strain the salad to remove excess dressing before serving.
- Old Bay seasoning is essential for authentic flavor but can be adjusted to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Poaching
- Cuisine: American
