A classic lobster roll is a quintessential summer dish that's both simple and delicious. Brimming with juicy, sweet lobster meat dressed lightly with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and fresh chives, and served on a warm, buttery roll, it's a meal that never disappoints.

Photos of Lobster Roll Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe might already be in your pantry or fridge. However, the star of the dish, lobster meat, could be a specialty item for some. When you go to the supermarket, make sure to purchase fresh, pre-cooked and picked lobster meat from the seafood section. You can also buy live lobsters and steam them at home.

Ingredients for the Classic Lobster Roll

Lobster meat: The star of this dish, make sure it's fresh and cooked.

Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy texture to the lobster filling.

Lemon juice: Provides a tangy flavor that goes well with the lobster.

Celery: Gives an extra crunch and freshness to the mix.

Chives: Enhance the overall taste with their unique flavor.

Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the flavor of the lobster.

Hot dog buns: The vessel for our delicious filling. They're soft and slightly sweet which complements the lobster.

Butter: Used for toasting the buns, adding richness and flavor to the dish.

One reader, Gelya David says:

This classic lobster roll recipe is a game-changer! The combination of succulent lobster, zesty lemon, and crunchy celery creates a burst of flavors that's simply irresistible. The buttery, golden buns perfectly complement the rich filling. It's a must-try for any seafood lover!

Gelya David

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Lobster Roll

How to prepare lobster meat: Remove the lobster meat from the shell and chop it into bite-sized pieces.

How to mix the lobster roll filling: Combine the lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, chives, salt, and pepper in a bowl and gently stir to combine.

How to cook the buns: Spread butter onto the outer sides of each bun and cook them in a pan or on a griddle over medium heat until golden brown.

How to serve the lobster roll: Divide the lobster mixture among the buns, garnish with additional chives, and serve.

Nothing says summer quite like a lobster roll! This classic New England dish is a delicious combination of succulent lobster meat, creamy yogurt (substitute for mayo for extra tang and creaminess!) and just the right amount of crunchy celery. Served on a lightly toasted bun, this traditional seafood sandwich is sure to become one of your favorite recipes.

How To Make Lobster Roll

Savor a flavorful seafood meal with this delicious lobster roll! Golden buttered buns are packed with lobster meat in a mix of yogurt, seasoning, and celery.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Chill Time: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

7½ozlobster tails,(3 pieces), poached, shells removed, and meat chopped into bite-sized pieces
½cupcelery,chopped
6tbspyogurt,or mayonnaise
1tbsplobster seasoning,to taste
unsalted butter,softened, for brushing
hotdog buns,(or New England buns)

To Serve:

unsalted butter,melted
potato fries
lemon wedges

For Garnish:

green onions,thinly sliced

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, add the lobster tails, celery, yogurt (or mayonnaise), and lobster seasoning. Cover it with a cling wrap.
Set aside in a chilled area for 30 minutes.
Spread unsalted butter into the hotdog buns. Toast briefly.
Scoop even amounts of lobster salad into each hotdog bun.
Serve with potato fries, lemon wedges, and melted butter. Garnish with green onions. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 107.21kcal
Protein: 13.13g
Cholesterol: 101.41mg

Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Your Lobster Roll Game

When preparing your lobster for the roll, ensure it's cooked just until it turns bright red and the meat is tender. Overcooking can make the lobster tough and rubbery. Also, for a more flavorful roll, consider using a mix of claw, tail, and knuckle meat. Each part of the lobster offers a slightly different texture and flavor, adding depth to your roll.

Time-Saving Tips for Making a Classic Lobster Roll

Prep ahead: Prepare the lobster mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use. This will save time when you're ready to assemble the lobster rolls.

Use pre-cooked lobster meat: Save time by using pre-cooked lobster meat, which can be found at many seafood markets. This eliminates the need to cook and shell the lobster yourself.

Efficient assembly: Have all your ingredients and tools ready before you start assembling the lobster rolls to streamline the process.

Quality ingredients: Use high-quality, fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor of the lobster roll without needing extra time-consuming steps.

Quick buttering: Instead of individually buttering each bun, melt the butter in a pan and quickly toast the buns all at once for efficiency.

Sharp knives: Use sharp knives and kitchen shears to easily and quickly cut the lobster meat and herbs without struggling, saving time and effort.

Opt for pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut celery and chives to save time on prep work and get the lobster roll ready more quickly.

Multi-task: While the buns are toasting, use that time to mix the lobster filling, maximizing efficiency in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Lobster Roll Recipe

lobster meat - Substitute with crab meat: Crab meat has a similar sweet and delicate flavor to lobster meat, making it a great substitute for lobster in a lobster roll recipe.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the lobster roll filling.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can add a similar tangy acidity to the lobster roll filling, enhancing the flavor without the citrusy notes of lemon juice.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel can provide a similar crunchy texture and a hint of subtle sweetness, making it a great alternative to celery in a lobster roll recipe.
chives - Substitute with green onions: Green onions can offer a mild onion flavor and a pop of color similar to chives, making them a suitable substitute in the lobster roll filling.
hot dog buns - Substitute with brioche buns: Brioche buns can provide a rich and slightly sweet flavor, along with a soft texture, making them a delicious alternative to traditional hot dog buns for lobster rolls.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee, or clarified butter, can be used as a substitute for butter to add a rich, nutty flavor to the lobster roll while also providing a similar buttery texture.

How to Beautifully Present a Lobster Roll

Elevate the lobster roll: Start by using a high-quality, buttery brioche bun to add a touch of elegance to the dish. The lobster mixture should be generously piled on top, creating a visually appealing and appetizing presentation.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle finely chopped chives on top of the lobster roll with precision, adding a pop of color and a fresh, aromatic element to the dish. This attention to detail will impress the judges and elevate the overall presentation.
Plate with finesse: Use a minimalist approach when plating the lobster roll, ensuring that each element is carefully placed for a balanced and visually appealing presentation. Pay attention to the arrangement of the buns and the lobster filling to create a sophisticated look.
Incorporate complementary sides: Pair the lobster roll with a side of house-made potato chips or a delicate mixed greens salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The addition of complementary sides will showcase your culinary expertise and attention to detail.
Focus on color contrast: Consider the color contrast on the plate by incorporating vibrant elements such as a lemon wedge or a small side of colorful pickles. This will add visual interest and sophistication to the overall presentation of the lobster roll.

Essential Tools for Making a Classic Lobster Roll

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as chopping, pureeing, and mixing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential tool for combining ingredients and mixing them thoroughly. It comes in various sizes and materials to suit different cooking needs.
Chef's knife: A chef's knife is a multipurpose knife that is essential for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients with precision and ease.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients, protecting your countertops and ensuring safety while using sharp knives.
Lobster cracker: A lobster cracker is a specialized tool designed to crack open lobster shells and extract the meat without damaging it.
Butter knife: A butter knife is useful for spreading butter on the buns and ensuring an even coating.
Griddle or pan: A griddle or pan is used for toasting the buns to golden brown perfection, adding a delicious crunch to the lobster roll.

Storing and Freezing Lobster Rolls: A Guide

To store leftover lobster rolls, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. The lobster meat mixture can be stored separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
If you have leftover lobster meat mixture, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Place the mixture in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and contents.
To thaw frozen lobster meat mixture, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, use the mixture within 24 hours and do not refreeze.
It is not recommended to freeze assembled lobster rolls, as the hot dog buns may become soggy and lose their texture upon thawing. If you need to freeze the buns, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw the buns at room temperature and reheat them in the oven or on a griddle before assembling the lobster rolls.

How To Reheat Leftover Lobster Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the lobster rolls in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until the rolls are warm and the lobster meat is heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture of the bun and prevents the lobster from drying out.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your lobster rolls. Place the rolls on the toaster oven tray and heat for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't burn.
For a quick and easy method, use your microwave. Place the lobster roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds on high power. If the roll isn't heated through, heat it for an additional 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the bun to become soggy and the lobster meat to overcook.
If you have a steamer, you can use it to reheat your lobster rolls. Place the rolls in the steamer basket and steam for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to keep the bun soft and the lobster meat moist.
For a crispy exterior, reheat your lobster rolls on a griddle or in a skillet. Brush the rolls with melted butter and place them on the preheated surface. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side or until golden brown and heated through.

Fascinating Facts About Lobster Rolls

Lobster roll is a classic dish that originated in New England. It is believed that the lobster roll was first served at a restaurant in Milford, Connecticut, in the 1920s. The dish quickly gained popularity and became a staple in seafood cuisine. Today, the lobster roll is enjoyed across the United States and is often served in two styles: Maine-style, which features chilled lobster meat with mayonnaise, and Connecticut-style, which is served warm with melted butter. Both styles are delicious and offer a unique way to enjoy fresh lobster.

Is Making Lobster Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?

This lobster roll recipe may not be the most cost-effective option for a household due to the high price of lobster meat. However, it can be a luxurious treat for special occasions. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $50-$60. The indulgent flavors and the satisfaction of enjoying a classic seafood dish may justify the expense. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is the Classic Lobster Roll Healthy or Unhealthy?

The classic lobster roll recipe, while undeniably delicious, does have some aspects that could be considered less than healthy. Let's break it down:

Lobster meat is a lean protein source, rich in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and zinc. However, it is also relatively high in cholesterol.
Mayonnaise, although used in moderation here, is high in fat and calories.
Butter, used for toasting the buns, adds saturated fat to the dish.
The hot dog buns are likely made from refined flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain options.

On the positive side, the recipe does include some fresh vegetables like celery and chives, which add a small amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of mayonnaise or replace it with a healthier alternative like Greek yogurt or avocado mayo.
Use whole grain hot dog buns or lettuce wraps instead of refined flour buns.
Opt for a healthier spread like olive oil or a small amount of mashed avocado instead of butter.
Increase the amount of fresh vegetables in the lobster mixture, such as diced bell peppers, cucumber, or tomatoes, to boost the fiber and nutrient content.
Serve the lobster roll with a side salad or fresh fruit to balance out the meal.

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on the Classic Lobster Roll Recipe

The classic lobster roll recipe is a timeless favorite, showcasing the delicate sweetness of lobster meat complemented by the tangy mayonnaise, zesty lemon juice, and crunchy celery. The addition of chives adds a subtle depth of flavor, while the buttery, golden-brown buns provide the perfect vessel for this indulgent filling. This recipe captures the essence of a traditional lobster roll, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that is sure to impress. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a decadent appetizer, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that embodies the spirit of coastal cuisine.

Enhance Your Lobster Roll Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, the perfect complement to the rich and flavorful lobster roll.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, adding a bright and refreshing element to the meal.

Summer Berry Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: A vibrant mix of fresh berries and crisp greens, tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing and light side dish to pair with the indulgent lobster roll.

Delicious Alternatives to the Classic Lobster Roll

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender risotto rice and earthy mushrooms creates a rich and satisfying meal.

Grilled Peach Salad: This grilled peach salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that is perfect for a summer day. The sweet and smoky flavor of the grilled peaches pairs perfectly with the crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette.

Braised Lamb Shanks: These braised lamb shanks are a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for a special occasion. The tender, fall-off-the-bone meat is infused with rich flavors from the braising liquid, creating a truly indulgent meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Lobster Roll

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with a creamy, herb-infused cheese mixture and baked to perfection. A delightful appetizer to kick off any meal.

Bruschetta: Crisp, toasted bread topped with a flavorful mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. A classic Italian starter that bursts with vibrant flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of decadence.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a hint of cinnamon in every bite. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Lobster Roll Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted classic, using only the freshest lobster meat and a perfect balance of mayonnaise, lemon juice, and celery. The careful combination of these ingredients ensures a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Our commitment to quality and authenticity guarantees that every bite of this lobster roll will transport you to the seaside. Trust in the expertise of our culinary team to deliver a truly exceptional dining experience.

Want to share your own lobster roll recipe or discuss tips and techniques? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk about this delicious seafood sandwich!

FAQ:

How do I cook the lobster for this recipe?

To cook the lobster, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lobster and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the shells turn bright red and the meat is opaque. Once cooked, remove the lobster from the pot and let it cool before removing the meat from the shells.

Can I use frozen lobster meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen lobster meat if fresh lobster is not available. Thaw the lobster meat in the refrigerator overnight before using it in the recipe.

What can I substitute for lobster if it's not available?

If lobster is not available, you can substitute it with crab meat or shrimp to make a delicious alternative to the classic lobster roll.

How can I tell if the lobster meat is cooked properly?

The lobster meat should be opaque and firm when cooked. Avoid overcooking the lobster, as it can become tough and rubbery.

Can I make the lobster mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lobster mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This can be a time-saving option for meal prep or entertaining.