Summer’s warm days make me think of a refreshing shrimp salad. Growing up near the Chesapeake, Old Bay seasoning is a big part of my food memories. It brings back summer barbecues and days by the water.
Today, I’m excited to share my favorite Shrimp Salad Recipe Old Bay. It’s made with Old Bay, a spice blend from Maryland.
This shrimp salad is a summer favorite. It’s full of fresh shrimp, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for a backyard party, a picnic, or a light meal.
It will make you feel like you’re in the Chesapeake, enjoying the season’s best.
The Perfect Blend of Old Bay Seasoning and Fresh Shrimp
Old Bay Seasoning is the secret to a delicious shrimp salad. This blend of 18 herbs and spices, created in 1939, makes any seafood dish better. It adds a unique taste that goes well with the sweetness of fresh shrimp.
Understanding Old Bay’s 18-Spice Magic
Old Bay Seasoning is a favorite in Maryland, used on many foods. Its mix of 18 spices gives a complex flavor. In a shrimp salad, it adds depth and makes the dish more interesting.
Selecting and Preparing Quality Shrimp
For the best shrimp salad, use fresh or thawed frozen shrimp. Choose medium-sized shrimp, about 31-40 per pound. They should be cooked just until they’re opaque to keep them tender and sweet.
Why Maryland’s Favorite Seasoning Makes a Difference
Old Bay Seasoning makes this shrimp salad special. It enhances the shrimp’s flavor and adds complexity. Whether on greens, as a sandwich filling, or alone, it’s a tasty summer dish.
Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools
Making a great Old Bay shrimp salad is easy with a few ingredients and tools. Let’s explore what makes this summer dish so tasty.
The main ingredient is the shrimp. You’ll need 2 pounds of large, raw shrimp for the best taste and texture. Mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, white wine vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce add lots of flavor.
You’ll also need chopped celery, scallions, red onion, parsley, and dill. These add a fresh crunch and aroma that goes well with the shrimp.
- 2 pounds large raw shrimp (31-35 per pound)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup sliced scallions
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
You’ll need a large pot, a colander, and a bowl for an ice bath. Mixing bowls and a whisk or spatula make mixing easy. Use fresh ingredients and tools to make prep simple.
Essential Tools | Description |
---|---|
Large Pot | For boiling the shrimp |
Colander | For draining the cooked shrimp |
Ice Bath Bowl | To quickly cool the cooked shrimp |
Mixing Bowls | For combining the salad ingredients |
Whisk or Spatula | To mix the dressing and incorporate all the flavors |
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make a delicious shrimp salad. It’s perfect for summer and Old Bay seasoning.
Shrimp Salad Recipe Old Bay: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a tasty shrimp salad with Old Bay seasoning is simple. Let’s go through the steps to make this summer classic.
Proper Shrimp Cooking Technique
First, boil a big pot of water. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes until they turn pink. Then, quickly put them in an ice bath to stop cooking and keep them juicy.
Creating the Creamy Dressing Base
In a medium bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. The Old Bay gives a nice kick, while lemon and mustard make it creamy.
Combining Fresh Ingredients
Now, gently mix the chilled shrimp with the dressing, celery, red onion, peas, and parsley. This mix of textures and tastes makes a great shrimp salad recipe old bay.
You can eat the easy shrimp salad right away or chill it for a few hours. This cold shrimp salad is perfect for a cool summer meal or as a tasty appetizer.
This shrimp salad recipe old bay takes only 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking and chilling. It’s a quick way to enjoy Maryland’s favorite flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
The classic shrimp salad recipe is perfect for many occasions. Try it as a shrimp salad appetizer on crackers or cucumber rounds. Or, serve it on a bed of crisp lettuce or in a croissant for a tasty shrimp salad sandwich.
It’s also great for shrimp salad potlucks and shrimp salad picnics. Everyone will love its creamy texture and Old Bay flavor.
To keep the shrimp salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For the best taste, eat it within 2 days. But remember, don’t freeze it. The mayonnaise can separate and change the texture when thawed.
This recipe is very flexible. You can change the amount of Old Bay seasoning to your liking. Or, try adding diced cucumber, bell pepper, or avocado for new flavors. The options are endless for making this shrimp salad your own.
Conclusion
This shrimp salad recipe with Old Bay seasoning is a perfect mix of flavors and textures. It’s great for summer salads and easy dishes. The fresh ingredients and Old Bay seasoning make it a memorable seafood salad.
This easy shrimp salad is simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, elegant appetizer, or side dish. It’s a favorite that will impress everyone.
Try this shrimp salad recipe old bay for a taste of summer. It’s a cherished part of your seasonal cooking. Enjoy the mix of Old Bay seasoning and fresh shrimp in this summer salad recipes.
FAQ
What is Old Bay seasoning?
Old Bay seasoning is a mix of 18 spices from Maryland, created in 1939. It includes celery salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard, giving it a unique taste.
What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Choose medium-sized shrimp (31-35 per pound) for the best texture. Both fresh and thawed frozen shrimp work well.
Can I substitute ingredients in this shrimp salad recipe?
Yes, you can make changes. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version. Adjust the Old Bay seasoning to your liking.
How long does the shrimp salad last in the refrigerator?
Store the shrimp salad in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For the best taste, eat it within 2 days.
Can I freeze the shrimp salad?
No, freezing the shrimp salad is not recommended. It can change the texture and flavor.
How can I serve this shrimp salad?
Serve the shrimp salad in many ways. Try it on croissants, over lettuce, or as a dip with crackers. It’s great for quick lunches or fancy appetizers.