Costco Shrimp Salad Recipe With Mayonnaise: Chilled Elegance for Summer Feasts

There’s a reason Costco’s shrimp salad remains a crowd favorite—its perfect balance of tender shrimp and creamy dressing is unmatched. This version captures that same restaurant-quality appeal with a homemade touch.

The key lies in properly cooking the shrimp until just opaque, then chilling them to maintain a firm texture. A light mayonnaise base, brightened with lemon and fresh herbs, keeps the flavor fresh and vibrant.

What you get is a dish that’s elegant yet effortless, ideal for summer picnics or casual gatherings. The shrimp stay plump and juicy, while the dressing ties everything together without overpowering.

Serve it on a bed of greens, in sandwiches, or with crackers for a versatile addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Costco Shrimp Salad Recipe with Mayonnaise

Pantry staples plus a quick seafood counter stop. Nothing fancy, just restaurant-quality flavor.

The shrimp is the star here. Wild-caught from Costco is my go-to—consistently plump and sweet. Look for 16/20 count (that’s 16-20 shrimp per pound) for the perfect bite. If you’re buying frozen, thaw in cold water to keep them firm. Don’t overcook them—pink and just opaque is ideal, then chill immediately in ice water to stop the cooking process.

No Old Bay? Celery salt plus paprika and cayenne gets you close. Fresh herbs are non-negotiable for that bright, summery vibe, but dried dill at one-third the amount works in a pinch. Want more tang? Add a splash of apple cider vinegar. For the mayo, Hellmann’s or Duke’s (depending on your coast) are the gold standard. Light mayo just doesn’t cut it here.

This keeps 2 days max in the fridge—shrimp gets rubbery fast. Store in an airtight container, press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent browning. Best served chilled, so make it a few hours ahead. Perfect for picnics (pack in a cooler) or sandwiches for lunch the next day.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp Salad with Mayonnaise

Here’s my proven method for creating this refreshing dish with perfect texture and flavor balance.

Step 1: Poach the Shrimp to Tender Perfection

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 1.5 lb large shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn opaque pink and float to the surface. Don’t overcook them or they’ll turn rubbery.

Immediately drain and transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This shock treatment preserves their tender texture and bright color. Once cool, drain again and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Vegetables and Herbs

Finely dice the 1 cup celery into ¼-inch pieces for consistent texture. Mince the 0.25 cup red onion as finely as possible to prevent overpowering bites. Chop the 2 tbsp fresh dill and 2 tbsp fresh parsley just before using to maintain their vibrant flavor.

Combine these in a large bowl with the shrimp. The celery adds a satisfying crunch, while the herbs provide a fresh, bright contrast to the rich mayonnaise base.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Creamy Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the 0.75 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 0.5 tsp Old Bay seasoning, 0.5 tsp kosher salt, and 0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper until smooth. The lemon juice cuts through the richness, while the mustard and Old Bay add depth.

Stir in the 1 tsp lemon zest for an extra citrus punch. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—the dressing should be tangy and well-balanced, not overly sharp.

Step 4: Combine and Chill for Maximum Flavor

Pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture and fold everything together gently with a spatula. Be careful not to break up the shrimp too much—you want visible pieces in every bite. The dressing should coat everything evenly without being overly heavy.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This chilling time is crucial for the best texture and taste.

Step 5: Serve in Butter Lettuce Cups

Spoon the shrimp salad into the 8 pieces butter lettuce leaves, creating elegant, hand-held portions. The lettuce adds a delicate crunch and freshness that complements the creamy filling perfectly.

Arrange on a platter and serve immediately. The contrast of the cool, creamy salad with the crisp lettuce makes this dish a standout for warm-weather gatherings.

Health Benefits of These Flavors

Lean Protein Power

Shrimp delivers 24 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving with only 99 calories, making this dish a lightweight powerhouse. The protein in shrimp contains all nine essential amino acids, supporting muscle repair and immune function without the saturated fat found in many land-based proteins. 💪

Heart Healthy Benefits

This seafood is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which promote cardiovascular health by reducing triglycerides and blood pressure. A single serving provides about 200mg of omega-3s, contributing to your weekly needs.

Low-Carb Friendly

With virtually no carbs and minimal sugar, this creation fits perfectly into low-carb or keto lifestyles. The mayonnaise adds healthy fats while keeping net carbs under 2 grams per serving, making it ideal for those watching their carbohydrate intake.

Vitamin and Mineral Boost

Shrimp provides an excellent source of selenium (over 50% of daily value per serving) and vitamin B12, both crucial for thyroid function and nerve health. The celery adds vitamin K, while lemon juice provides a dose of immune-boosting vitamin C.

Weight Management

The high protein and low calorie combination helps promote satiety, keeping you fuller for longer. This makes the dish an excellent choice for weight management, as it satisfies hunger without excessive calories. Studies show protein-rich meals reduce subsequent snacking by up to 60%. 🌟

Antioxidant Protection

Shrimp contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that gives it its pink color and helps combat oxidative stress. The fresh herbs contribute additional antioxidants, while the lemon juice enhances iron absorption from any leafy greens you might serve alongside.

Frequently Asked Questions