The image shows a bowl of creamy cucumber shrimp salad, made with cooked shrimp, sliced cucumbers, and a creamy herb dressing garnished with fresh dill. This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, high in protein, and can fit well into many diabetic-friendly meal plans when prepared with unsweetened ingredients and eaten in appropriate portions.
Why This Recipe Is Diabetic-Friendly
This salad combines lean shrimp with crisp cucumbers and a creamy dressing based on plain Greek yogurt (or a mix of yogurt and light mayonnaise). It is:
- Low in carbohydrates
- High in protein
- Rich in vitamins and minerals
- Filling and satisfying
- Naturally gluten-free
- Ready in under 20 minutes
Note: “Diabetic-friendly” does not mean suitable for everyone with diabetes. Individual nutrition needs vary, so portion size and total daily carbohydrate intake still matter.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until the dressing is smooth.
- Add the shrimp, cucumbers, and onion.
- Toss gently until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra dill and lemon wedges if desired.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Net Carbs: 6 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 170 mg
- Sodium: 480 mg
Values are estimates and will vary depending on the ingredients used.
Health Benefits
- High-quality protein helps promote fullness.
- Cucumbers add hydration and are low in calories.
- Greek yogurt contributes protein and calcium.
- Fresh dill provides flavor without extra sodium.
- Lower in carbohydrates than many traditional creamy salads.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Mixed green salad
- Avocado slices
- Whole-grain crackers (if they fit your carbohydrate goals)
- Lettuce wraps
- Tomato slices
- Steamed vegetables
Storage
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Do not freeze, as the dressing and cucumbers may lose their texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can people with diabetes eat shrimp?
Yes. Shrimp is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein. It can be part of a balanced meal for many people with diabetes.
2. Is cucumber good for blood sugar?
Cucumbers are low in carbohydrates and contain fiber, making them a good vegetable choice for many meal plans.
3. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before mixing with the dressing.
4. Can I replace the Greek yogurt?
Yes. You can use all light mayonnaise, sour cream, or a dairy-free unsweetened yogurt alternative, though the nutrition will change.
5. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
It can be, especially if you use full-fat Greek yogurt or mayonnaise and keep the cucumber portion moderate.
6. How long does it last?
It is best enjoyed within 1–2 days for the freshest texture.
7. Can I add avocado?
Yes. Avocado adds healthy fats and pairs well with the shrimp and cucumber.
8. Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes, but for the best texture, consider storing the dressing separately and combining it with the cucumbers shortly before serving.
