New York Deli Shrimp Salad
If you’ve ever strolled into a classic New York deli and ordered their creamy shrimp salad, you know it’s pure comfort in a bowl; cool, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. This New York Deli Shrimp Salad brings those nostalgic flavors right to your kitchen, with plump shrimp, crisp celery, and a tangy, creamy dressing that’s equal parts fresh and indulgent.
This salad is perfect for summer lunches, quick dinners, or sandwiches piled high on rye bread; just like they do at the delis in Manhattan.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic deli flavor with easy ingredients
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Great for meal prep and entertaining
- Delicious as a salad, sandwich, or wrap filling
- Light, refreshing, and protein-packed
Time Taken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
- Total Time: 25–40 minutes
Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
(Values may vary based on portion size and ingredients used.)
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked shrimp (medium or large, peeled and deveined)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional but classic)
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp:
If using raw shrimp, boil in salted water for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and cool completely. - Mix the dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay, salt, and pepper. - Combine the salad:
Add shrimp, celery, red onion, and dill to the bowl. Toss until evenly coated. - Chill and serve:
Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes for the best flavor. Serve cold on lettuce leaves, toasted bread, or in a sandwich roll.
You Must Know
- Use fresh shrimp if possible, it gives a true deli-quality texture.
- Chill the salad before serving for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp, they turn rubbery quickly.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze; mayo-based salads lose texture when frozen.
- Stir gently before serving leftovers to redistribute the dressing.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Mayonnaise: Substitute with Greek yogurt or a light mayo blend.
- Shrimp: Try crab, lobster, or imitation crab for variety.
- Old Bay seasoning: Use celery salt, paprika, or lemon pepper if unavailable.
- Fresh herbs: Dill, parsley, or chives all add brightness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on toasted rye, pumpernickel, or a croissant for that authentic deli vibe.
- Spoon over crisp romaine or iceberg lettuce for a light lunch.
- Pair with pickles, chips, or coleslaw for a classic deli-style plate.
Cultural and Historical Context
This recipe is inspired by the traditional New York Jewish delis that have been serving creamy seafood salads for decades. The signature combination of shrimp, mayo, celery, and seasonings captures the essence of old-school deli charm, simple ingredients, perfectly balanced flavors, and comforting nostalgia.
Seasonal Adaptations
- Summer: Add diced cucumber or avocado for freshness.
- Fall/Winter: Serve on warm toasted bagels or as a topping for baked potatoes.
- Spring: Toss with arugula and a squeeze of extra lemon for a lighter touch.
Success Stories
“I made this for my lunch club, and everyone thought I bought it from a deli!”
“Better than any store-bought shrimp salad, so creamy and flavorful.”
“Perfect picnic recipe, easy to make and everyone loved it!”
Pro Tips
- Dry the shrimp well before mixing to prevent watery dressing.
- Chill before serving, it enhances both texture and taste.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if you like a little kick.
Chef’s Special Tips
- Use small or medium shrimp — they blend better with the dressing.
- Fold gently when mixing to avoid breaking the shrimp.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or dill for a classic deli presentation.
Final Thoughts
This New York Deli Shrimp Salad is a timeless, creamy classic that brings the flavors of the East Coast straight to your table. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile, it’s the kind of dish that feels just as perfect for a weekday lunch as it does for a holiday spread.