If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal, our Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime recipe is a perfect choice. Using Costco’s fresh shrimp makes this dish not only affordable but incredibly easy to prepare. The vibrant flavors of cilantro and zesty lime bring a refreshing twist that brightens up any dinner table.
Ingredients
To create our vibrant Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime dish, we rely on fresh and simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s everything we need to bring this zesty and refreshing meal to life.
Shrimp
We start with fresh shrimp from Costco — the star of our recipe. Using peeled and deveined shrimp saves time but maintains the freshest seafood taste.
- 1 pound peeled and deveined Costco shrimp (medium or large size)
- Ensure shrimp are thawed if previously frozen for even cooking
Cilantro
Cilantro adds the fresh herbal note essential to the recipe’s signature flavor.
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped finely
- Choose vibrant green leaves for best aroma and taste
Lime
The citrusy zing of lime balances the dish perfectly, making it bright and tangy.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh lime juice | 3 tablespoons | Adds zesty citrus flavor |
| Lime zest (optional) | 1 teaspoon | Intensifies lime aroma |
Additional Ingredients
To complete the flavor profile and texture of our Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime, we add complementary ingredients that enhance the dish’s zestiness and freshness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced — boosts savory depth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil — for sautéing shrimp to perfection
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin — adds subtle warmth
- Salt and pepper to taste — balances all flavors
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a slight kick
With these ingredients ready, we ensure every bite bursts with fresh, tangy, and savory notes that define our Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime recipe.
Equipment Needed
To perfectly prepare our Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime Recipe, having the right equipment on hand ensures a smooth cooking process and delicious results. Here is what we will need:
- Large mixing bowl: For tossing shrimp with marinade ingredients.
- Sharp chef’s knife: Essential for finely chopping fresh cilantro and zesting the lime.
- Microplane or fine grater: For zesting lime to extract flavorful oils without the bitter pith.
- Measuring spoons and cups: To measure precise amounts of olive oil, garlic, cumin, and other seasonings.
- Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan: Key for sautéing shrimp quickly and evenly with minimal sticking.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: Convenient to turn shrimp halfway through cooking and drain excess oil if needed.
- Citrus juicer or reamer: To squeeze fresh lime juice easily and efficiently.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large mixing bowl | Mixing shrimp with marinade |
| Sharp chef’s knife | Chopping cilantro and zesting lime |
| Microplane/grater | Extracting lime zest |
| Measuring spoons/cups | Precise measuring of ingredients |
| Non-stick skillet/cast iron pan | Cooking shrimp evenly and quickly |
| Tongs/slotted spoon | Turning shrimp and handling during cooking |
| Citrus juicer/reamer | Extracting fresh lime juice |
Having these tools ready allows us to focus on the flavors and technique without interruption. Utilizing fresh lime zest and cilantro works best when we finely prep them with the right knives and graters, complementing the shrimp’s natural sweetness perfectly. Each piece of equipment plays a vital role in delivering the bright, fresh taste that defines our Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To ensure our Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime Recipe is ready when we want it, we can easily prepare components ahead of time without sacrificing freshness or flavor.
Marinate the Shrimp in Advance
- Place 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp into a large mixing bowl.
- Add minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, lime juice, and chopped fresh cilantro.
- Toss shrimp well to coat evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- This marinating time allows the shrimp to soak in the zesty, fragrant flavors enhancing the final dish.
Prep the Cilantro and Lime
- Finely chop fresh cilantro ahead of time and store it in an airtight container or small jar.
- Zest and juice fresh limes using a microplane or citrus reamer.
- Keep the lime zest and juice refrigerated separately in sealed containers.
Storage Duration Table
| Component | Storage Method | Maximum Refrigeration Time |
|---|---|---|
| Marinated Shrimp | Covered bowl or airtight container | 2 hours |
| Chopped Cilantro | Airtight container | 3 days |
| Lime Zest and Juice | Sealed containers | 1 day |
Final Notes
- We suggest cooking the shrimp just before serving to maintain a tender texture and bright flavors.
- Avoid marinating shrimp longer than 2 hours as acidity from lime can begin to “cook” the shrimp and alter texture.
- Keeping cilantro and lime juice separate until plating ensures maximum freshness and vibrant taste.
Prep
Proper preparation sets the foundation for our Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime Recipe. Let’s break down essential steps to ensure freshness and flavor shine in every bite.
Thawing and Cleaning the Shrimp
To maintain the shrimp’s tenderness and natural sweetness, start by thawing them properly:
- Place the frozen peeled and deveined shrimp in a colander.
- Rinse gently under cold running water for 5 minutes.
- Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.
Quick Tip: Avoid thawing shrimp in warm water or at room temperature to prevent texture loss and bacterial growth.
Chopping Cilantro
The fresh cilantro adds the vibrant herbaceous note that defines our dish. Here’s how to prep it efficiently:
- Rinse fresh cilantro thoroughly under cold water to remove grit.
- Shake off excess water or spin in a salad spinner until just damp.
- Using a sharp chef’s knife, chop cilantro leaves finely — discard thick stems as they can be bitter.
Pro Insight: Chop cilantro just before combining with other ingredients to preserve its bright flavor and aroma.
Preparing Lime Juice and Zest
Lime is the zesty heart of this recipe. Extract every drop of its flavor with these simple steps:
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Zesting | Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lime | Avoid zesting the white pith |
| Juicing | Cut lime in half and use a citrus juicer or reamer | Strain juice to remove seeds |
- For maximum zing, zest before juicing the lime.
- Use fresh lime juice and zest promptly to capture peak citrus oils and brightness.
By following these precise prep steps, we ensure the Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime Recipe bursts with fresh herbaceous and zesty citrus notes balanced perfectly with tender shrimp.
Cooking Instructions
We’ll walk through each step to perfectly cook the Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime recipe, ensuring the shrimp stays tender while the vibrant flavors of cilantro and lime shine through.
Sautéing the Shrimp
- Preheat your skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add olive oil: Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the pan. Swirl to coat evenly.
- Cook the shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Season and sear: Sprinkle the shrimp with ground cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Sauté for 2-3 minutes on the first side without moving them.
- Flip shrimp: Using tongs, turn each shrimp over. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat: Transfer shrimp to a plate and let rest for a minute. This prevents overcooking and keeps them juicy.
Combining with Cilantro and Lime
- Add cilantro and lime juice: Immediately toss the cooked shrimp with freshly chopped cilantro and the juice of one lime.
- Incorporate lime zest: For an aromatic boost, sprinkle lime zest over the shrimp mixture.
- Final seasoning: Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Toss gently to combine all flavors well.
- Serve promptly: Present the dish warm for the best flavor and texture.
| Step | Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat skillet | 2-3 minutes | Medium-high heat for perfect sear |
| Sauté shrimp (first side) | 2-3 minutes | Avoid moving shrimp for even cooking |
| Sauté shrimp (second side) | 1-2 minutes | Shrimp should be pink and opaque |
| Toss with cilantro & lime | Immediate | Use fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro |
Assembly and Serving
Once the shrimp is perfectly cooked and infused with the zesty cilantro lime marinade, it’s time to assemble and serve this vibrant Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime recipe. Our goal is to present it in ways that maximize flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving this dish immediately to enjoy the shrimp’s tender texture and fresh, citrusy zing at their peak. Here are some crowd-pleasing options to pair with the shrimp:
| Serving Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Warm tortillas | Soft corn or flour tortillas for tacos |
| Steamed jasmine rice | Mild, fragrant rice to balance bold flavors |
| Quinoa salad | Nutty, protein-packed base with crunchy veggies |
| Fresh garden salad | Crisp greens dressed lightly with lime vinaigrette |
| Grilled corn | Adds a sweet, smoky contrast |
Feel free to build tacos with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of our cooked shrimp for a complete meal. A squeeze of extra lime juice enhances brightness before serving.
Garnishing Tips
Garnishing not only elevates the dish’s appearance but also layers in additional aroma and flavor. We suggest:
- Fresh cilantro leaves scattered generously to emphasize the herbaceous theme.
- A light sprinkle of lime zest to add a fragrant citrus pop on top.
- Thinly sliced red onions or scallions for a sharp contrast.
- A dash of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a subtle kick.
- Optional dollops of sour cream or a creamy avocado sauce to cool down the citrus.
These finishing touches will turn the Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime meal into a feast for all senses. As we plate, let’s remember that presentation counts as much as flavor for an irresistible dish.
Storage and Leftovers
Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and flavor of our Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime Recipe. Here’s how we handle leftovers and store this dish to enjoy later without sacrificing taste or texture.
Storing Cooked Shrimp
- Allow the shrimp to cool to room temperature within 1 hour after cooking.
- Transfer the shrimp to an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and odor absorption.
- Refrigerate promptly. Cooked shrimp will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
Freezing Leftovers
If we want to keep leftovers longer:
- Place cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
- Store in the freezer for up to 2 months for best quality.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating Tips
To preserve the tender texture and vibrant flavors:
- Reheat shrimp gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat.
- Add a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to prevent drying.
- Avoid microwaving directly for prolonged times as shrimp can become rubbery.
Flavor Preservation
Because cilantro and lime are key flavors:
- Add a fresh sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice after reheating.
- Avoid marinating leftovers again to keep the shrimp’s natural texture intact.
| Storage Method | Container | Refrigeration Time | Freezing Time | Reheating Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Airtight container | 3 days | N/A | Skillet low heat, add lime |
| Freezer | Freezer-safe airtight container | N/A | 2 months | Thaw in fridge, skillet |
Conclusion
This Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime recipe is a fantastic way to bring fresh, vibrant flavors to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. Using quality shrimp from Costco keeps it affordable and convenient, while the cilantro and lime create a bright, zesty profile that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish offers versatility and ease. Plus, with simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy leftovers without sacrificing taste or texture.
We’re confident this recipe will become a go-to favorite that combines freshness, flavor, and simplicity in every bite. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal that’s as satisfying as it is effortless.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for the Costco Shrimp Cilantro Lime recipe?
You need peeled and deveined shrimp, fresh cilantro, lime juice (and zest if desired), minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
Can I marinate the shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the shrimp for up to 2 hours before cooking to enhance flavor without affecting texture.
What equipment do I need to prepare this dish?
A large mixing bowl, a sharp chef’s knife for chopping and zesting, and a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan for cooking.
How do I cook the shrimp for best results?
Preheat your skillet, add olive oil, cook shrimp in a single layer, season, flip once to sear both sides, then toss with fresh cilantro and lime juice.
What are good serving suggestions for this shrimp dish?
Serve with warm tortillas, steamed jasmine rice, quinoa salad, fresh garden salad, or grilled corn for a complete meal.
How should leftovers be stored?
Cool shrimp to room temperature, store in an airtight container, refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat the shrimp without losing flavor?
Reheat gently in a skillet with a little olive oil or lime juice, then add fresh cilantro and lime juice afterward to revive the bright flavors.
Can lime zest be omitted from the recipe?
Yes, lime zest is optional but adds a lovely citrus aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
Is it important to serve the shrimp immediately?
For the best texture and flavor, serve the shrimp right after cooking to enjoy its tender and fresh citrus taste.