If you’ve ever strolled into a Brooklyn deli and been enchanted by the aroma of briny seafood salad tucked behind glass, this New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe is your invitation to recreate that classic flavor at home. Packed with succulent shrimp, crisp celery, red onion, and a creamy, zippy dressing, every forkful promises bright, fresh flavors with just the right hint of nostalgia. Whether you’re loading it onto a bagel for a weekend brunch or piling it high on a bed of greens for a light lunch, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients that come alive together. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe lies in its approachable ingredient list. Each component amplifies flavor, freshness, or that signature deli crunch—no extras, just essentials chosen to shine.
- Shrimp (1 pound, cooked, peeled, deveined, chopped): Go for firm, bite-sized pieces for the best mouthfeel and juicy texture.
- Celery (1/2 cup, finely diced): Adds crispness and a refreshing green pop to every bite.
- Red onion (1/4 cup, finely diced): Brings mild zing and extra color to round out the flavors.
- Mayonnaise (1/3 cup): Creates the creamy, dreamy base that ties everything together.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Delivers a subtle tang and deli-style authenticity.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Adds brightness, cutting through the richness with just the right acidity.
- Old Bay seasoning (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For classic East Coast flair—just enough to echo that deli magic.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balance.
- Chopped fresh dill or parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): A sprinkle boosts freshness and brightens up the salad visually.
- Lettuce leaves or bagels (for serving): Choose your favorite vessel for scooping up every creamy, crunchy mouthful.
How to Make New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp and Veggies
Start by making sure your shrimp is perfectly prepped—cooked just until tender, peeled, deveined, and chopped into hearty, bite-sized pieces. The celery and red onion should be diced finely so you get a bit of crunch and color in every bite, but nothing overwhelms the delicate shrimp. Toss these together in a spacious mixing bowl to combine.
Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and evenly blended—you want a texture that coats a spoon but isn’t overly thick. This luscious, tangy mixture is the secret that transforms a bowl of seafood and veggies into bona fide deli magic.
Step 3: Combine and Fold
Pour your fresh dressing over the shrimp mixture and gently fold until the shrimp, celery, and onion are evenly coated. If using, now’s the moment to stir in chopped dill or parsley. The trick is to be gentle; you don’t want to beat up the shrimp but let them bask in all that creamy goodness.
Step 4: Chill to Meld Flavors
Cover the bowl and let your New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time is key—flavors meld, the salad firms up, and every ingredient gets a chance to shine. Patience pays off with every bite.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad one more gentle toss. Spoon generously onto crisp lettuce leaves or pile high on a toasted bagel. Every bite is creamy, punchy, and fresh—true New York deli fare without ever leaving home.
How to Serve New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprig of extra dill or parsley, a dusting of cracked black pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon on top can make all the difference. For a touch of color, add a slice of radish or cucumber—these little flourishes let your salad look as fabulous as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair your shrimp salad with a crunchy pickle spear, kettle-cooked chips, or a scoop of classic slaw. A bowl of chilled gazpacho on the side adds a cool, refreshing contrast that makes the meal feel downright luxurious, deli-style.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile your New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe onto mini bagels for entertaining or spoon into heirloom tomato halves for a playful summer lunch. Use it as a chic filling for endive leaves at your next cocktail party, or simply let guests build their own salads buffet-style with a platter of greens and toppings—versatility is part of the charm!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. It holds up beautifully for 2 to 3 days, retaining its creamy texture and crispness. Give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute any dressing that may have settled.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze shrimp salad; the creamy dressing tends to separate and the texture of the shrimp can become rubbery when thawed. For optimal freshness and flavor, make just what you’ll eat within a few days.
Reheating
This recipe shines when served chilled, straight from the fridge—there’s no need to reheat. If you’d like it at room temperature, simply let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving, but avoid warming it up, as that will compromise the creaminess and delicate shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work beautifully—just thaw thoroughly, pat dry, and proceed as directed. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for maximum convenience.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the dressing?
Swap in a high-quality vegan mayo to make this recipe dairy-free. The creamy texture and tang will be just as delicious, and all the other flavors will stay true to the original New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe.
What can I use instead of Old Bay seasoning?
If you don’t have Old Bay, a pinch of celery salt, paprika, plus a little black pepper adds a similar savory, slightly spicy kick. Or leave it out for a softer flavor profile.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
The salad itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it on gluten-free bagels, bread, or crisp lettuce cups if you need to avoid gluten entirely.
Can I prepare the salad in advance for a party?
Yes, in fact, making it a few hours ahead is ideal! Prepare as directed, cover tightly, and chill until you’re ready to serve. It’s just as creamy and flavorful and saves you time on the day of your gathering.
Final Thoughts
If you love fresh flavors with a hint of old-school deli style, you simply have to try this New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe. Share it with friends, make it your go-to for packed lunches or lazy brunches, and let the flavors transport you right to the heart of New York. Enjoy every bite!
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New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with crunchy celery and zesty red onion, all coated in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a sandwich filling.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley (optional)
- Lettuce leaves or bagels for serving
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chopped shrimp, celery, and red onion.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture and toss gently to coat. Add dill or parsley if desired.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Serve: Enjoy over lettuce leaves, on a bagel, or as a sandwich filling.
Notes
- Enhance flavor with pickle juice or hot sauce.
- Perfect for make-ahead lunches; keeps well for 2–3 days.
- Use jumbo shrimp for a more upscale presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
