Experience the fresh and vibrant flavors of the coastline right at home with this Poor Man's New England Lobster Rolls recipe. Combining the succulence of lobster with the crunch of celery and the tang from fresh lemon, this dish is a quick and budget-friendly alternative to traditional lobster rolls. The mixture is chilled for optimal flavor development, before being generously stuffed into buttery, oven-toasted hoagie rolls, a crucial step in achieving that classic lobster roll experience.
Photos of Poor Man’s New England Lobster Rolls Recipe
The main star of this recipe, the lobster meat, might not be a regular in your kitchen, but is widely available in supermarkets, usually found in the seafood section. Frozen lobster meat can also be used as a more cost-effective alternative. Fresh chives bring a delicate onion-like flavor, and can be found in the produce section of supermarkets. Hoagie rolls, a type of long soft bread roll, are easily substituted by hot dog buns or any other soft rolls.
Ingredients for the Poor Man's New England Lobster Rolls
Lobster meat: The main ingredient, providing a rich, succulent taste.
Celery: Adds a crunchy texture and fresh flavor.
Mayonnaise: Gives the stuffing its creamy consistency.
Lemon juice: Adds a tangy freshness, balancing the richness of the lobster meat.
Fresh chives: A delicate herb that adds a subtle hint of onion-like flavor.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Hoagie rolls: The vessel for our delicious lobster stuffing, a soft, long roll that is toasted to perfection.
Butter: Used for brushing the rolls, adding a buttery flavor and helping achieve a golden-brown crust.
One reader, Almeria Lear says:
This recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh lobster, zesty lemon, and creamy mayo is simply divine. The flavors are reminiscent of a classic New England lobster roll, and the buttery hoagie rolls take it to the next level. It's a budget-friendly way to enjoy a taste of luxury!
Techniques Required for Making Poor Man's New England Lobster Rolls
How to prepare lobster meat: Remove the lobster meat from the shells and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
How to chill the lobster mixture: Place the prepared lobster mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
How to preheat the oven: Turn the oven on and set the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to slice the hoagie rolls: Cut the sides of the hoagie rolls and then slice them down the center.
How to brush the rolls with butter: Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the sides and center of the hoagie rolls with melted butter.
How to bake the rolls: Place the buttered hoagie rolls on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 7 minutes.
How to stuff the rolls with lobster mixture: Once the rolls are baked, fill them with the chilled lobster mixture and serve.
How To Make Poor Man’s New England Lobster Rolls
These New England-style lobster rolls are incredibly delicious with a hint of lemon juice and creamy mayonnaise, served in baked hoagie rolls.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3lbslobster meat,cooked, cubed
- 2stalkscelery,finely chopped
- 3tbspmayonnaise,such as Hellman’s
- 2tbsplemon juice
- 1tbspfresh chives,chopped
- salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
- 6hoagie rolls
- 4tbspbutter,melted
Instructions
-
Combine the lobster meat, celery, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chives. Mix well.
-
Season with salt and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
-
Slice the sides of the hoagie rolls and slice down the center.
-
Brush the melted butter on the sides and in the center of rolls, and place on a baking sheet.
-
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 7 minutes.
-
Stuff with chilled lobster mixture and serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 403.39kcal
- Fat: 16.64g
- Saturated Fat: 6.49g
- Trans Fat: 0.34g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.64g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.63g
- Carbohydrates: 20.43g
- Fiber: 1.69g
- Sugar: 0.45g
- Protein: 41.03g
- Cholesterol: 311.20mg
- Sodium: 1231.07mg
- Calcium: 237.45mg
- Potassium: 552.54mg
- Iron: 1.75mg
- Vitamin A: 71.29µg
- Vitamin C: 2.67mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Poor Man's New England Lobster Rolls
When preparing the lobster mixture, it's important to chop the celery finely. This ensures that the celery blends well with the lobster, providing a subtle crunch without overpowering the delicate flavor of the lobster. Additionally, chilling the mixture allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the lobster roll.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Lobster Rolls
Prep ahead: Prepare the lobster mixture the day before and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day you plan to serve the rolls.
Use pre-cooked lobster meat: To save time, consider using pre-cooked lobster meat instead of cooking and shelling the lobsters yourself. This will significantly cut down on preparation time.
Buy pre-cut rolls: Purchase pre-cut hoagie rolls from your local bakery or grocery store to skip the step of slicing and preparing the rolls yourself.
Multi-task: While the rolls are baking in the oven, use that time to prepare the lobster mixture or attend to other tasks in the kitchen to maximize efficiency.
Invest in a lobster cracker: If you do choose to cook and shell the lobster yourself, using a lobster cracker can help speed up the process of cracking the shells and extracting the meat.
Substitute Ingredients For Poor Man’s New England Lobster Rolls Recipe
lobster meat - Substitute with imitation crab meat: Imitation crab meat has a similar texture and flavor to lobster, making it a cost-effective alternative for this recipe.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to mayonnaise, while also adding a boost of protein to the dish.
hoagie rolls - Substitute with brioche buns: Brioche buns offer a rich, slightly sweet flavor and a soft texture, making them a suitable replacement for hoagie rolls in this recipe.
Best Way to Present Poor Man's New England Lobster Rolls
Elevate the lobster mixture: Gently mound the chilled lobster mixture onto the hoagie rolls, ensuring a generous and visually appealing portion.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a delicate touch of freshly chopped chives on top of the lobster rolls for a pop of color and added flavor.
Plate with precision: Arrange the lobster rolls on a pristine white plate, ensuring each roll is positioned with care and attention to detail.
Accompany with a side dish: Serve the lobster rolls alongside a refreshing summer salad or a side of crispy potato chips for a well-rounded presentation.
Add a touch of luxury: Consider drizzling a hint of truffle oil over the lobster rolls for an indulgent and sophisticated finish.
Incorporate a seafood element: Place a small, intricately designed seashell or a decorative lobster claw on the plate to emphasize the dish's seafood inspiration.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the lobster rolls on a sleek, modern platter or a wooden board to enhance the overall visual appeal.
Consider the color contrast: Pair the lobster rolls with a vibrant and visually striking edible flower or a colorful microgreen garnish to create a stunning contrast on the plate.
Highlight the freshness: Place a small, artfully arranged pile of ice shards or sea salt crystals on the plate to emphasize the freshness and quality of the lobster meat.
Emphasize the New England inspiration: Incorporate a subtle nod to the dish's New England roots by adding a miniature lobster trap or a small nautical-themed trinket to the plate for a touch of whimsy.
Essential Tools for Making Lobster Rolls on a Budget
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently preparing a variety of foods.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, whisking, and stirring. It comes in various sizes and materials to suit different cooking and baking needs.
- Chef's knife: A chef's knife is a multipurpose knife with a broad blade that tapers to a sharp point. It's ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping a wide range of ingredients.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting, chopping, and slicing ingredients. It helps protect your countertops and keeps your knives sharp.
- Lobster cracker: A lobster cracker is a specialized tool designed to crack open lobster shells and extract the meat without damaging it.
- Butter brush: A butter brush, also known as a pastry brush, is used to apply melted butter or other liquids to food items, such as bread or pastries, for flavor and texture.
How To Store and Freeze Homemade Lobster Rolls
- To store leftover lobster rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- If you have leftover lobster meat mixture, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Use it to make more lobster rolls or serve it over a bed of greens for a delicious salad.
- To freeze lobster rolls, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To freeze the lobster meat mixture, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using it to make lobster rolls or another dish.
- When reheating frozen lobster rolls, remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil and wrap the rolls in a damp paper towel. Microwave them on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
- If you have frozen the lobster meat mixture, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using it. Do not refreeze the mixture after it has been thawed.
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 about 10-15 minutes, or until the rolls are warm and the lobster mixture is heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture of the lobster meat and keeps the rolls crispy.
If you prefer a softer roll, you can wrap the lobster rolls in a damp paper towel before wrapping them in foil. This will help to steam the rolls and keep them moist during the reheating process.
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave. Place the lobster rolls on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 30-45 seconds, or until the lobster mixture is warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the lobster meat to become tough and rubbery.
If you have leftover lobster meat and want to freshen up the rolls, you can remove the lobster mixture from the rolls and reheat it separately. In a skillet, melt a small amount of butter over medium heat. Add the lobster mixture and stir gently until it's heated through. This method allows you to adjust the seasoning or add extra mayonnaise or lemon juice if needed.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the lobster rolls in a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls directly on the rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the rolls are crispy and the lobster mixture is warm.
Random Fact About Poor Man's New England Lobster Rolls
The lobster rolls recipe is a budget-friendly alternative to traditional New England lobster rolls, using affordable ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying dish.
Is Making Lobster Rolls at Home Economical?
This poor man's New England lobster rolls recipe is a budget-friendly alternative to traditional lobster rolls. With affordable ingredients like celery and mayonnaise, it offers a cost-effective option for households. The use of lobster meat provides a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $40-$50, making it an economical choice for a seafood-based meal. The overall verdict rates this recipe at 8 out of 10 for its balance of affordability and indulgence.
Is This Lobster Roll Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The poor man's New England lobster rolls recipe, while undeniably delicious, may not be the healthiest choice. 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, the recipe calls for a whopping 3 lbs of lobster meat, which could lead to excessive protein intake.
- Mayonnaise, although used sparingly, is high in fat and calories.
- Butter, used to brush the rolls, adds saturated fat to the dish.
- The hoagie rolls, likely made from refined flour, lack fiber and essential nutrients.
On the positive side, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients like celery, lemon juice, and chives, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of lobster meat and increase the proportion of vegetables, such as diced cucumbers, tomatoes, or bell peppers, to boost fiber and nutrient content while lowering the overall calorie count.
- Opt for a light or reduced-fat mayonnaise to cut down on fat and calories, or replace it with Greek yogurt for a protein-rich, lower-fat alternative.
- Instead of brushing the rolls with butter, toast them lightly to reduce the saturated fat content.
- Choose whole-grain or multigrain rolls to increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients.
- Add a side salad or fresh vegetable sticks to balance out the meal and provide extra vitamins and minerals.
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a tasty and more nutritious version of the poor man's New England lobster rolls.
Enhance Your Poor Man’s New England Lobster Rolls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to Poor Man's New England Lobster Rolls
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Poor Man's New England Lobster Rolls
Why trust this Poor Man’s New England Lobster Rolls Recipe:
This recipe uses fresh lobster meat and classic ingredients to recreate the flavors of a New England lobster roll. The combination of mayonnaise, celery, and chives adds a delightful crunch and freshness to the dish. The use of lemon juice enhances the overall flavor profile, while the warm, buttery hoagie rolls provide the perfect vessel for the delicious lobster filling. The careful instructions ensure that the dish is prepared to perfection, making it a trustworthy and delightful choice for any seafood lover.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Lobster Salad Recipe
Lobster Rolls Recipe
Captain George’s Lobster Roll Recipe
Jean’s Fudge Recipe
Gloria’s Sausage Gravy with Biscuits Recipe
Chef John’s Perfect Prime Rib Recipe
Tori’s Beanless Chili Recipe
Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Recipe
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffles Recipe
90-Second Keto Bread in a Mug Recipe
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Truffles Recipe
