“A shrimp salad is as versatile a dish as they come, equally fitting for a formal dinner and a beach picnic,” remarks food enthusiast, Amethyst Ganaway. The recipe pops with its bright, creamy dressing, adding a delightful layer of tang to any occasion. Taking inspiration from her origins, Ganaway twirls her magic wand on traditional shrimp salad with a unique spin including a selection of fresh, aromatic herbs like chives, tarragon, and mint.

She recommends the use of small, succulent shrimp that have been lightly poached in rich, zingy lemon and Cajun seasoning prior to being mixed with a medley of crunchy veggies and aromatic herbs. She has a unique preference for the small, brown shrimp commonly found in the Lowcountry waterways. Her inclusion of tarragon and mint introduces an unusual and refreshing element to the salad which is absent from traditional family recipes. Alongside these, don't forget to add some celery leaves, which offer an earthy, slightly spicy note that marries all flavors.

Ganaway swears by a variety of celery known as Tango celery, locally produced by South Carolina farmers at Fire Ant Farm on Johns Island. All tossed together in a good mayonnaise, she appreciates Duke's, to complete a Southern-style fusion.

This enlivened shrimp salad can be served atop buttered crackers, smeared onto crostini, or served in lettuce cups for a healthier bite. It also works as an excellent filling for sandwiches with your chosen bread. If you're running out of Old Bay, then substitute it with any off-the-shelf Cajun seasoning such as Biscayne Bay Seafood Seasoning or Slap Ya Mama, or whip up your own Cajun seasoning blend at home.

The star ingredient of this recipe, the shrimp, should be of superior quality. Wild-caught shrimp lend a robust minerality and sweetness incomparable to the farmed kinds. If wild-caught is not available, consider seeking responsibly farmed options.

The salad stays fresh for up to two days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Master this shrimp salad recipe at home by following the step-by-step instructions and relish a vibrant, creamy Southern delight that will tantalize the taste buds and brighten your dinner table.