Räksallad is a classic Swedish shrimp salad built around fresh shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It comes together quickly and works equally well as a light lunch or a starter. The combination of cool, briny shrimp and crunchy vegetables keeps every bite clean and satisfying.
Rinse the cooked shrimp under cold water in a colander and let them drain thoroughly. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. You want them non-watery to ensure the salad remains crisp.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly. The colors should appear bright and inviting.
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Pour the dressing over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the dressing with the salad until every element is lightly coated. Avoid overmixing to keep the vegetables crisp.
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning, if needed. A pinch more salt or a squirt of lemon juice can enhance the flavors further if required.
Notes
Jen’s Tips:
For a more vibrant flavor, allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving.
This resting period helps the flavors meld beautifully.
If dill isn’t handy, substitute with fresh parsley for a slightly different herbal note.