If there’s one dish that defines summer on the Chesapeake Bay, it’s the classic Maryland Shrimp Salad. Light, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this simple yet iconic dish showcases the beauty of fresh shrimp paired with crunchy celery, zesty lemon, and the unmistakable punch of Old Bay seasoning. Whether you’re a Maryland native or just love a good seafood salad, this is a recipe that deserves a place at your table.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what makes Maryland shrimp salad so special, how to make it step-by-step, answer your most pressing FAQs, and offer tips and serving suggestions to help you enjoy this dish at its best.
What Is Maryland Shrimp Salad?
Maryland Shrimp Salad is a cold seafood dish made with steamed or poached shrimp tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. What makes it uniquely “Maryland” is the liberal use of Old Bay Seasoning, a regional staple known for its blend of celery salt, paprika, and spices that pair perfectly with seafood. The dish often includes crisp celery and onions for texture and is served chilled—making it ideal for summer picnics, crab feasts, or light lunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a truly authentic Maryland Shrimp Salad, stick to fresh ingredients and keep it simple. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Shrimp Salad:
- 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, steamed and peeled (medium or large size)
- ⅓ cup (40 g) celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup (30 g) onion, finely chopped (red onion or sweet onion work well)
- ¼ cup (60 g) mayonnaise, full-fat for best flavor
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) Old Bay seasoning, or more to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley
- A splash of hot sauce for heat
- Diced avocado or cucumber for a modern twist
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
If your shrimp isn’t pre-cooked, start by steaming or poaching it.
To steam shrimp:
- Bring 1–2 inches of water to a boil in a large pot with a steamer basket.
- Add shrimp (seasoned with Old Bay if desired) to the basket.
- Cover and steam for about 3–4 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and opaque.
Once cooked, peel and devein if necessary. Then chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces, or leave whole if you prefer a more rustic look.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Lemon juice
- Old Bay seasoning
Taste and adjust for seasoning. This is the flavor base of your salad, so feel free to tweak it—add mustard for zing, or a bit more lemon for brightness.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
To the dressing, add:
- Chopped shrimp
- Celery
- Onion
Use a spatula or spoon to gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to blend and intensify.
Serving Suggestions
This shrimp salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- On a bed of greens – Light and low-carb.
- As a sandwich – Use a soft brioche bun, crusty roll, or hoagie.
- With crackers or cucumber slices – Great for appetizers or snacks.
- In lettuce wraps – For a keto or gluten-free option.
- Over pasta – Turn it into a cold seafood pasta salad.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Salad
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Steam or poach just until pink and opaque.
- Use Good Quality Mayonnaise: The flavor really matters here. Dukes or Hellmann’s are both good choices.
- Customize the Texture: Like it chunkier? Leave the shrimp whole. Prefer a finer bite? Chop it small.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Dill, parsley, or even tarragon can brighten the flavor.
- Balance the Creaminess: If the salad feels too heavy, thin the dressing with a little more lemon juice or a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
Storage Instructions
Store Maryland shrimp salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s not suitable for freezing due to the mayonnaise-based dressing and shrimp texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 1g
Note: Based on 4 servings per recipe.
FAQs About Maryland Shrimp Salad
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely. Just thaw fully, then steam or poach as directed. Fresh is ideal, but frozen works in a pinch.
Q: What’s the best substitute for Old Bay?
A: Try a homemade mix of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and a dash of cayenne. But honestly, Old Bay is worth keeping on hand!
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as the mayonnaise and seasonings are gluten-free (always check the labels).
Q: Can I make this shrimp salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! In fact, it tastes better after chilling for a few hours. Just store in the fridge and stir before serving.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Sure. This recipe is naturally dairy-free if you skip any optional cheese-based additions. Just use a dairy-free mayo if needed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and classic seafood dish, Maryland Shrimp Salad is a must-try. It’s the kind of recipe that’s deeply rooted in tradition but endlessly adaptable to your preferences. Whether served on crackers at a party, stuffed into a sandwich, or enjoyed straight from the bowl, this creamy shrimp salad hits the mark every single time.
So the next time you’re craving something cool, fresh, and packed with flavor, turn to this Maryland favorite. You’ll be hooked after just one bite. Enjoy!