Beyond the Tray: Creative Recipes Using Costco’s New Sashimi
Costco’s sashimi trays have long been a go-to for quick and convenient sushi nights at home. But the introduction of their *new* sashimi tray has upped the game, offering fresher cuts, better variety, and an overall superior experience. This isn’t just pre-packaged fish anymore; it’s a culinary canvas waiting to be explored! Forget simply arranging the slices on a plate; let’s dive into some creative and delicious recipes that showcase the quality and versatility of this Costco gem.
## Why Costco’s New Sashimi Tray Stands Out
Before we get to the recipes, let’s quickly highlight why this new sashimi tray is worth the buzz:
* **Freshness:** This is paramount. Costco seems to have improved their sourcing and handling, resulting in noticeably fresher fish. Look for vibrant colors and a firm texture.
* **Variety:** The new trays typically include a mix of salmon, tuna, and sometimes yellowtail (hamachi), offering a good range of flavors and textures.
* **Convenience:** Pre-sliced and ready to eat, it saves you a significant amount of prep time. This is a huge plus for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
* **Value:** Compared to ordering individual sashimi from a restaurant, the Costco tray offers excellent value for the quantity and quality you receive.
## Recipe 1: Sashimi Poke Bowl Extravaganza
Poke bowls have exploded in popularity, and for good reason. They’re healthy, customizable, and incredibly delicious. Using Costco’s sashimi, you can create a restaurant-worthy poke bowl in minutes.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Sashimi Tray (salmon, tuna, or a mix)
* 2 cups cooked sushi rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
* 1/2 cup edamame (shelled)
* 1/4 cup seaweed salad
* 1/4 cup avocado, diced
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
* 1/2 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
* Optional toppings: mango, cucumber, radish sprouts, furikake
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Rice:** If you’re making sushi rice, follow the instructions on the package. Sushi rice typically involves rinsing the rice thoroughly, cooking it with the correct amount of water, and then mixing it with a vinegar-sugar-salt solution. If using pre-cooked rice, simply warm it up.
2. **Make the Poke Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sriracha. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. For a sweeter sauce, add a touch of honey or maple syrup.
3. **Assemble the Bowl:** Divide the cooked rice between two bowls. Arrange the sashimi slices, edamame, seaweed salad, and avocado on top of the rice. Drizzle generously with the poke sauce.
4. **Garnish:** Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Add any optional toppings you desire, such as mango for sweetness or cucumber for crunch.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Enjoy immediately. This poke bowl is a complete and satisfying meal.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spicy Mayo:** For an extra kick, add a dollop of spicy mayo. Simply mix mayonnaise with sriracha to your desired heat level.
* **Crispy Garlic:** Sprinkle some crispy fried garlic on top for added texture and flavor.
* **Different Grains:** Experiment with quinoa or barley instead of rice for a different nutritional profile.
* **Vegetarian Option:** For a vegetarian version, substitute the sashimi with marinated tofu or grilled mushrooms.
## Recipe 2: Sashimi Salad with Ginger Dressing
This light and refreshing salad is perfect for a summer lunch or a healthy dinner. The ginger dressing complements the richness of the sashimi beautifully.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Sashimi Tray (salmon, tuna, or a mix)
* 4 cups mixed greens (spring mix, romaine, or your favorite)
* 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
* 1 carrot, julienned or shredded
* 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup radish sprouts
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ginger Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. The dressing should be slightly sweet, tangy, and savory.
2. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, carrot, and red bell pepper.
3. **Add the Sashimi:** Arrange the sashimi slices on top of the salad.
4. **Drizzle with Dressing:** Pour the ginger dressing over the salad, being sure to coat all the ingredients.
5. **Garnish:** Sprinkle with radish sprouts and toasted sesame seeds.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately. This salad is best enjoyed fresh.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Avocado:** Add sliced avocado for creaminess.
* **Mango:** Include diced mango for a touch of sweetness.
* **Different Greens:** Experiment with different types of greens, such as spinach or arugula.
* **Grilled Shrimp:** Add grilled shrimp for extra protein.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add a bit of lemon or lime zest to the dressing for a brighter flavor.
## Recipe 3: Sashimi Tacos with Wasabi Crema
These sashimi tacos are a fun and unexpected twist on a classic dish. The wasabi crema adds a delicious kick that perfectly complements the fish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Sashimi Tray (salmon, tuna, or a mix)
* 12 small corn or flour tortillas
* 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
* 1-2 teaspoons wasabi paste (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1/4 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
* 1/4 cup diced avocado
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 lime, cut into wedges, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Wasabi Crema:** In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), wasabi paste, and lime juice. Start with a small amount of wasabi and add more to your desired heat level. The crema should be smooth and creamy with a noticeable wasabi kick.
2. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can warm them in a skillet, in the oven, or in the microwave.
3. **Assemble the Tacos:** Spread a spoonful of wasabi crema on each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage, sashimi slices, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately with lime wedges. Let your guests squeeze lime juice over their tacos for extra flavor.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spicy Mayo:** Use spicy mayo instead of wasabi crema for a different flavor profile.
* **Mango Salsa:** Add mango salsa for sweetness and acidity.
* **Pickled Ginger:** Include some pickled ginger for a classic sushi accompaniment.
* **Crispy Wonton Strips:** Sprinkle with crispy wonton strips for added texture.
* **Grilled Pineapple:** Add grilled pineapple for a tropical twist.
## Recipe 4: Sashimi Pizza Bites
These pizza bites are a playful and elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. The combination of creamy cheese, fresh sashimi, and savory nori is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Sashimi Tray (salmon, tuna, or a mix)
* 1 package (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 2 sheets nori seaweed, cut into small squares
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pizza Dough:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Use a 1-inch cookie cutter or knife to cut out small circles of dough. Place the circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. **Bake the Dough:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
3. **Make the Cream Cheese Spread:** In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. **Assemble the Pizza Bites:** Spread a small amount of cream cheese spread on each pizza bite. Top with a small piece of nori, a slice of sashimi, and chopped green onions.
5. **Garnish:** Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately or chill for later. These pizza bites are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Cheese:** Use goat cheese or ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese.
* **Avocado:** Add a small slice of avocado for creaminess.
* **Spicy Mayo:** Drizzle with spicy mayo for an extra kick.
* **Eel Sauce:** Add a drizzle of eel sauce (unagi sauce) for a sweet and savory flavor.
* **Tobiko (Flying Fish Roe):** Top with tobiko for a burst of flavor and texture.
## Recipe 5: Spicy Sashimi Crispy Rice
Inspired by Nobu’s famous crispy rice, this recipe offers a satisfying crunch with a spicy kick that complements the delicate sashimi.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Sashimi Tray (Tuna recommended)
* 2 cups cooked sushi rice (cooled)
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* Vegetable oil for frying
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
* Optional: Avocado slices, sliced jalapeños
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Sushi Rice Squares:** Mix the cooled sushi rice with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Press firmly into a greased square baking dish (about 8×8 inches). Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the rice to firm up.
2. **Cut and Fry the Rice:** Cut the rice into small squares or rectangles. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the rice squares until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Drain on paper towels.
3. **Make the Spicy Mayo:** In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and sesame oil. Adjust the sriracha to your desired level of spiciness.
4. **Assemble the Crispy Rice:** Top each crispy rice square with a small amount of spicy mayo, a slice of sashimi, and chopped green onions.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Sprinkle with sesame seeds and optionally add avocado slices or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Baking the Rice:** For a healthier option, you can bake the rice squares instead of frying. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
* **Adding Crunch:** Mix some panko breadcrumbs into the rice before pressing it into the pan for extra crunch.
* **Different Sashimi:** While tuna is recommended, you can use salmon or yellowtail if preferred.
* **Sweet and Spicy:** Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the spicy mayo for a sweet and spicy flavor.
## Recipe 6: Sashimi Donburi (Rice Bowl)
This is a classic Japanese dish that’s simple to make and incredibly satisfying. The warm rice, flavorful sauce, and fresh sashimi create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Sashimi Tray (Salmon or Tuna recommended)
* 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (warm)
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
* 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
* 1 sheet nori seaweed, cut into thin strips
* Wasabi paste, for serving (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Donburi Sauce:** In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. **Assemble the Donburi:** Divide the warm rice between two bowls. Drizzle generously with the donburi sauce.
3. **Arrange the Sashimi:** Arrange the sashimi slices on top of the rice.
4. **Garnish:** Sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions and nori strips.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately with wasabi paste on the side, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Adding Egg:** Gently cook a soft-boiled egg and place it on top of the donburi for added richness and creaminess.
* **Pickled Vegetables:** Add some pickled ginger or other pickled vegetables for a tangy and refreshing contrast.
* **Different Sauces:** Experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki sauce or ponzu sauce.
* **Sesame Seeds:** Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
## Recipe 7: Seared Sashimi with Ponzu Sauce
This recipe elevates the sashimi experience by searing the outside of the fish, creating a delightful contrast between the cooked exterior and the raw interior. The ponzu sauce adds a bright and citrusy flavor that complements the fish perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Sashimi Tray (Tuna or Salmon recommended, thicker cuts preferred)
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
* 1/4 cup ponzu sauce
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon grated ginger
* 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
* Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ponzu Sauce:** In a small bowl, combine ponzu sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Mix well.
2. **Sear the Sashimi:** Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat until smoking hot. Pat the sashimi slices dry with paper towels. Carefully place the sashimi slices in the hot oil and sear for about 10-15 seconds per side, or until lightly browned. The center of the fish should remain raw.
3. **Slice the Seared Sashimi:** Immediately remove the seared sashimi from the skillet and slice into thin pieces.
4. **Assemble and Serve:** Arrange the seared sashimi slices on a plate. Drizzle with the ponzu sauce and garnish with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Sesame Crust:** Before searing, lightly coat the sashimi in sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
* **Spicy Crust:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sesame seed coating for a spicy kick.
* **Different Oils:** Experiment with different oils, such as sesame oil or avocado oil.
* **Serving Suggestions:** Serve the seared sashimi as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal.
## Recipe 8: Sashimi Spring Rolls
These fresh and vibrant spring rolls are a healthy and delicious way to enjoy sashimi. They’re perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing appetizer.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Sashimi Tray (Salmon, Tuna, or a mix)
* 8 rice paper wrappers
* 1/2 cup cooked vermicelli rice noodles
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned
* 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
* 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
* Peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce, for dipping
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Rice Paper Wrappers:** Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip each rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds until softened. Be careful not to over-soak them, as they will become too sticky and difficult to handle.
2. **Assemble the Spring Rolls:** Lay the softened rice paper wrapper on a flat surface. Arrange a small amount of vermicelli rice noodles, shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, mint leaves, and cilantro leaves in the center of the wrapper. Top with a few slices of sashimi.
3. **Roll the Spring Rolls:** Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then tightly roll up the spring roll from the bottom to the top. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the spring rolls immediately with peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce for dipping.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Avocado:** Add slices of avocado for creaminess.
* **Sprouts:** Include bean sprouts or alfalfa sprouts for added crunch and nutrients.
* **Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as basil or chives.
* **Shrimp:** Add cooked shrimp for extra protein.
* **Dipping Sauce:** Create your own dipping sauce by combining soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of honey.
## Recipe 9: Sashimi Ceviche
This refreshing ceviche is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a hot day. The acidity of the lime juice “cooks” the sashimi, resulting in a tender and flavorful appetizer.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Sashimi Tray (Tuna or Salmon recommended)
* 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
* 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
* 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
* 1 avocado, diced
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Tortilla chips or tostadas, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Sashimi:** Cut the sashimi into small cubes.
2. **Marinate the Sashimi:** In a glass bowl, combine the cubed sashimi, lime juice, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure the sashimi is completely submerged in the lime juice.
3. **Refrigerate:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The lime juice will “cook” the sashimi, making it opaque and firm.
4. **Add Avocado:** Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately with tortilla chips or tostadas.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Orange Juice:** Add a splash of orange juice for a sweeter flavor.
* **Mango:** Include diced mango for a tropical twist.
* **Tomatoes:** Add diced tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
* **Cucumber:** Incorporate diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper to control the spice level.
## Recipe 10: Deconstructed Sashimi Sushi Rolls
This playful take on sushi rolls is easy to assemble and customizable to your liking. It’s a great way to showcase the freshness of the Costco sashimi.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Sashimi Tray (Salmon, Tuna, or a mix)
* 2 cups cooked sushi rice
* Nori seaweed sheets, cut into bite-sized pieces
* Wasabi paste
* Soy sauce
* Pickled ginger
* Optional toppings: Avocado slices, cucumber slices, sesame seeds, tobiko (flying fish roe), spicy mayo
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Sushi Rice:** Ensure the sushi rice is properly seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
2. **Arrange the Ingredients:** Arrange the sushi rice, nori seaweed pieces, sashimi slices, wasabi paste, soy sauce, and pickled ginger on a serving platter or individual plates.
3. **Assemble and Enjoy:** Let your guests create their own deconstructed sushi rolls by placing a small amount of sushi rice on a piece of nori, topping it with a slice of sashimi, a dab of wasabi, and any other desired toppings. Dip in soy sauce and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Presentation is Key:** Arrange the ingredients artfully on the platter for a visually appealing presentation.
* **Offer a Variety of Toppings:** Provide a wide range of toppings to cater to different tastes.
* **Spice it Up:** Include spicy mayo or sriracha for those who like a little heat.
* **Get Creative:** Encourage your guests to experiment with different combinations of ingredients.
* **Make it a Party:** This is a perfect activity for a sushi-themed party.
## Buying Tips for the Costco Sashimi Tray
* **Check the Date:** Always check the “sell by” or “use by” date on the package and choose the freshest one available.
* **Inspect the Fish:** Look for fish that is vibrant in color, firm to the touch, and has a fresh, clean smell. Avoid fish that looks dull, slimy, or has a strong odor.
* **Consider the Quantity:** The Costco sashimi tray contains a significant amount of fish, so make sure you can use it all before it goes bad. If you’re not planning to use it all at once, consider freezing some of the fish for later use.
* **Storage:** Store the sashimi tray in the coldest part of your refrigerator, preferably near the bottom. Use the fish as soon as possible for the best quality and flavor.
## Freezing Sashimi
If you need to freeze some of the sashimi, follow these tips:
* **Wrap Tightly:** Wrap the sashimi tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag.
* **Freeze Quickly:** Place the freezer bag in the coldest part of your freezer to ensure quick freezing.
* **Thaw Properly:** Thaw the sashimi in the refrigerator overnight. Do not thaw it at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.
* **Use Immediately:** Once thawed, use the sashimi immediately. Do not refreeze it.
## Final Thoughts
Costco’s new sashimi tray is more than just a convenient meal option; it’s an invitation to get creative in the kitchen. With a little imagination, you can transform these fresh slices of fish into a variety of delicious and impressive dishes. So, grab a tray, experiment with these recipes, and enjoy the taste of restaurant-quality sashimi in the comfort of your own home! From poke bowls to crispy rice, the possibilities are endless.
Enjoy!