Get ready to fall in love with a true classic: the New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe. This dish combines tender, perfectly poached shrimp with a creamy, tangy dressing that’s packed with celery, dill, Old Bay seasoning, and a touch of Dijon mustard. It’s a flavorful, refreshing salad that delivers a perfect balance of crunch, zest, and richness in every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to something special, this salad captures the spirit of a bustling New York deli right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is surprisingly simple when it comes to ingredients, yet each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the salad stand out. From the aromatic Old Bay seasoning to the crisp celery, every item contributes something delicious.
- Shrimp (1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined): Choose medium-sized shrimp for the perfect bite and texture in the salad.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps tenderize the shrimp during the brining process.
- Diamond Crystal Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and drawing out flavor.
- Water (8 cups): For poaching shrimp gently and perfectly.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon plus 2 ounces): Adds brightness and balances the creamy dressing.
- Old Bay seasoning (2 teaspoons plus 1/2 teaspoon): The signature spice blend that infuses the shrimp and dressing with that classic deli flavor.
- Celery (1/2 cup, finely diced): Brings crispness and subtle earthiness to the salad.
- Red onion (1/4 cup, finely diced): Adds a slight sharpness and vibrant color contrast.
- Dill (1 tablespoon, minced): Fresh herbaceous notes that bring the whole salad together beautifully.
- Mayonnaise (3/4 cup): The creamy base of the dressing, making everything luscious.
- Celery seed (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle depth of flavor and classic deli seasoning.
- Dijon mustard (2 teaspoons): Contributes a gentle tang and complexity to the dressing.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for perfect seasoning.
How to Make New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe
Step 1: Brine the Shrimp
Start by tossing your peeled and deveined shrimp in a mixture of baking soda, kosher salt, and Old Bay seasoning. This simple brine works wonders by tenderizing the shrimp and enhancing their natural flavor while you get your water ready for poaching. Letting the shrimp rest in this seasoning bath for about 15 to 20 minutes sets the foundation for perfectly seasoned shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Ice Water Bath
While the shrimp are marinating, fill a large bowl with ice and water. This will be crucial to quickly cool down the shrimp after poaching to stop the cooking process. Chilling the shrimp immediately after cooking ensures they remain tender and firm, the ideal texture for your salad.
Step 3: Poach the Shrimp
Bring 8 cups of water to a rolling boil, infused with fresh lemon juice for a hint of citrus. Drop the shrimp into the boiling water and cook them for about 90 seconds until they turn opaque and just firm up. Keep your eye on them here—they cook fast and overcooking can make them tough.
Step 4: Shock and Dry the Shrimp
Once cooked, immediately transfer the shrimp to your ice water bath to chill them quickly. This method locks in their perfect texture and stops any lingering cooking heat. After about a minute in the ice bath, drain the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels; moisture can dilute the dressing and overall texture.
Step 5: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine your finely diced celery and red onion with fresh dill, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, celery seed, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir these all together until the dressing is creamy, vibrant, and balanced. Be sure to taste and season with salt and pepper as needed; this is where your salad really comes alive.
Step 6: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Add the chilled, dried shrimp to the mixing bowl with your prepared dressing. Gently toss everything together, making sure each shrimp is evenly coated in that flavorful, creamy sauce. This step infuses every bite with the perfect blend of spice, tang, and freshness you want in a deli-style shrimp salad.
Step 7: Chill the Salad
For maximum flavor, cover your shrimp salad with plastic wrap and let it refrigerate for at least two hours, but ideally overnight. The resting time allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, producing a more cohesive and irresistible salad. Patience here truly rewards the senses.
Step 8: Drain for a Dryer Salad (Optional)
If you prefer a less wet salad, before serving place the shrimp salad in a colander and let any excess liquid drain off. This simple trick prevents sogginess and keeps each bite perfectly creamy without being watery. Serve immediately and savor every mouthful.
How to Serve New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is key with garnishes. Sprinkle a few extra chopped dill sprigs or a light dusting of Old Bay on top for a visually appealing and aromatic boost. For crunch, add a few thin celery sticks on the side or a wedge of lemon to brighten up the flavors just before eating.
Side Dishes
This shrimp salad pairs beautifully with a variety of sides—think classic rye bread or crusty baguette slices for an authentic deli vibe. It also works wonderfully atop a bed of crisp lettuce or alongside sweet potato fries for a satisfying contrast in textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to wow guests? Serve the shrimp salad in buttery croissant halves for an indulgent sandwich or spoon it into hollowed-out avocado halves for a fresh, elegant appetizer. Another fun idea is to use endive leaves as natural scoops, offering a delightful crunch with each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and refresh the flavors.
Freezing
Since this shrimp salad is mayonnaise-based, freezing is not recommended as it can separate and ruin the creamy texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days when properly refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating to maintain the shrimp’s perfect texture and the integrity of the dressing. If you’d like it less chilled, simply let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before starting the brining step to ensure the best texture and flavor.
What is the purpose of baking soda in the brine?
Baking soda helps tenderize the shrimp’s proteins, resulting in a more tender and juicy bite after poaching.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise for a lighter option?
You can try Greek yogurt or a mayo-yogurt blend for a lighter dressing, but keep in mind it will change the traditional creaminess slightly.
How long should I brine the shrimp?
About 15 to 20 minutes is perfect. Longer than that and the texture might become too soft.
Is Old Bay seasoning essential?
Old Bay is a signature flavor here, but if you don’t have it, you can mix paprika, celery seed, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne as a substitute. It won’t be quite the same but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
The New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe is a wonderful blend of classic deli flavors with the fresh, clean taste of perfectly cooked shrimp. It’s one of those dishes that feels special yet is so easy to make, perfect for casual lunches or fancy gatherings alike. Grab your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a taste of New York right at home. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
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New York Deli Shrimp Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This New York Deli Shrimp Salad is a refreshing and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender poached shrimp tossed in a zesty, creamy dressing with celery, red onion, and fresh dill. Perfect for a light lunch or a deli-style picnic, this shrimp salad combines a vibrant Old Bay seasoning kick with tangy Dijon mustard and lemon juice for a classic East Coast taste.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Brine Ingredients
- 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 Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 tablespoon dill, minced (plus more to taste)
- 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
- Brine the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with baking soda, kosher salt, and 2 teaspoons of Old Bay seasoning, mixing well to evenly coat. Let the shrimp brine while you prepare boiling water, about 15-20 minutes. This helps tenderize the shrimp and enhances flavor.
- Prepare Ice Water Bath: Fill another large bowl with ice water and set aside. This will be used to rapidly cool the shrimp after poaching to stop the cooking process and maintain their firm texture.
- Poach the Shrimp: Bring 8 cups of water combined with 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add the shrimp and cook for approximately 90 seconds, or until they become slightly opaque and just cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
- Shock and Dry the Shrimp: Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp into the prepared ice water bath to halt cooking. Once cooled, drain the shrimp thoroughly using a colander and pat dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture in the salad.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine finely diced celery, red onion, minced dill, mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning, celery seed, 2 ounces lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Add the chilled and dried shrimp to the dressing bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat each piece of shrimp evenly with the flavorful sauce.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and develop a richer taste.
- Drain for a Dryer Salad (Optional): If a less watery salad is preferred, transfer the shrimp salad to a colander just before serving to allow any excess liquid to drain. Serve chilled and enjoy your New York-style deli shrimp salad!
Notes
- Peeling and deveining the shrimp beforehand ensures a cleaner texture and presentation.
- Do not overcook the shrimp during poaching; they should be slightly opaque and tender.
- Allowing the salad to chill overnight enhances the melding of flavors.
- Optional draining before serving can help maintain a firmer salad texture.
- Adjust Old Bay seasoning and lemon juice amounts to taste for preferred spice and tang levels.
