New York Deli Shrimp Salad

This New York Deli Shrimp Salad is a delightful blend of poached shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a creamy lemon-mayo sauce. Perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing meal on a warm day, this salad brings the classic flavors of a deli right to your kitchen. Whether served on a bed of greens or in a sandwich, it’s an easy dish that stands out for its vibrant flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and crisp vegetables ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it alone, on a sandwich, or as part of a buffet spread—it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of dill, lemon, and Old Bay seasoning creates a unique taste that elevates the dish.
• Make Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To create this tasty New York Deli Shrimp Salad, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Ice water bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the shrimp quickly and evenly, ensuring they cook perfectly.
• Colander: Used for draining the shrimp after cooking, which is crucial to achieve the desired texture.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently and keeping your workspace organized.
• Whisk: Helps mix the dressing smoothly, ensuring all flavors are well incorporated.

Ingredients

This New York deli-style shrimp salad combines poached shrimp with onions, celery, and dill in a lemon-mayo sauce with celery seed.

For the Shrimp

• 1.5 pounds shrimp (31-40 count shrimp – peeled, deveined, and 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

For the Salad

• 1/2 cup finely diced celery
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 1 tablespoon dill (minced, plus more to taste)

For the 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)

How to Make New York Deli Shrimp Salad

Step 1: Poaching the Shrimp

1. Mix the shrimp well with baking soda, salt, and Old Bay seasoning; set aside. Wait 15-20 minutes until boiling.
2. Prepare a large bowl of ice water for shocking the shrimp; set aside.
3. In a large pot, add water and lemon juice; bring to a boil.
4. Add the shrimp to the pot; cook for 90 seconds or until they turn slightly opaque.
5. Place the cooked shrimp immediately into the ice water bath to stop cooking. Drain using a colander and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Preparing the Sauce

1. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced dill, Old Bay seasoning, celery seed, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Taste test and adjust seasoning if required.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

1. Add the cooled shrimp to the dressing mixture; coat well.
2. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to let flavors meld.

Step 4: Serving

1. For a dryer salad texture, strain through a colander to drain excess liquid before serving.
2. Serve immediately chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!

How to Serve New York Deli Shrimp Salad

New York deli shrimp salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a light meal, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

As a Sandwich Filling

• Use the shrimp salad as a filling for crusty bread or rolls. Add some lettuce or sliced tomatoes for extra flavor and crunch.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the shrimp salad over mixed greens or spinach. Drizzle with additional lemon juice for a refreshing touch.

With Crackers

• Pair the salad with your favorite crackers. This makes for an easy appetizer that’s perfect for parties or picnics.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the shrimp salad into large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. This adds a nice crunch and makes it easy to eat on-the-go.

With Avocado Slices

• Top avocado halves with the shrimp salad for a creamy and nutritious twist. This combination is both filling and flavorful.

As a Dip

• Serve the shrimp salad as a dip with vegetable sticks or pita chips. It’s great for snacking during gatherings or movie nights.

How to Perfect New York Deli Shrimp Salad

To ensure your New York deli shrimp salad is outstanding, consider these tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and crisp vegetables make all the difference in taste.
• Chill properly: Allow your shrimp salad to chill in the refrigerator overnight for optimal flavor meld.
• Taste test: Always taste your dressing before combining it with the shrimp, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
• Avoid overcooking: Cook the shrimp just until opaque to keep them tender and avoid rubbery texture.
• Adjust acidity: If you prefer a tangier flavor, increase the lemon juice or add more Dijon mustard.

Best Side Dishes for New York Deli Shrimp Salad

Complement your New York deli shrimp salad with delightful side dishes that balance its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs well with the fresh flavors of the salad, adding a satisfying crunch.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast that enhances each bite of shrimp salad.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds heartiness to your meal, making it even more satisfying.
4. Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, cucumber salad brings coolness that complements the richness of the shrimp.
5. Tomato Basil Salad: A simple tomato basil salad offers bright flavors that match perfectly with seafood dishes.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad can add substance while keeping everything light and healthy.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide depth and warmth alongside the chilled shrimp dish.
8. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad can cleanse the palate, offering a delightful contrast to savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making New York deli shrimp salad, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Monitor cooking time closely, aiming for 90 seconds.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not shocking the shrimp in ice water can result in overcooked shrimp. Always cool them immediately to maintain their texture.
• Neglecting flavor adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can leave your salad bland. Always taste and tweak salt, pepper, and other spices before serving.
• Using low-quality mayonnaise: Poor-quality mayo can affect the overall flavor of your salad. Choose a creamy, flavorful mayonnaise for the best results.
• Not refrigerating long enough: Serving the salad right after mixing may not allow flavors to meld. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for richer flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing New York Deli Shrimp Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the shrimp.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

Reheating New York Deli Shrimp Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm gently, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Use medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed; avoid overheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about New York deli shrimp salad.

Can I use frozen shrimp for New York Deli Shrimp Salad?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Thaw them completely before poaching for the best results.

How do I make this salad spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the spice level while mixing in the dressing.

What can I serve with New York Deli Shrimp Salad?

This salad pairs well with crusty bread or crackers for a delightful appetizer or light meal.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like avocado or swap dill for parsley based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

New York deli shrimp salad is a refreshing and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. With its creamy lemon-mayo sauce and crisp veggies, it’s sure to impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients for even more flavor!