New England Lobster Roll

Capture the essence of a New England summer with this classic lobster roll. Sweet, succulent lobster meat is the star, nestled in a perfectly toasted, buttery brioche bun. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that tastes like a seaside vacation, ready in under 30 minutes.

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The great lobster roll debate often comes down to two beloved styles. The Maine version, also known as New England style, features a refreshing cold lobster salad with a mayonnaise base. The Connecticut style, on the other hand, serves the lobster meat warm, drenched in melted butter. This recipe empowers you to choose your favorite or even try both!

Ingredients

• Lobster
• 500 g (about 1 lb) cooked lobster meat (claw, knuckle, and tail), chopped into bite-sized pieces
• Dressing
• 2–3 tbsp mayonnaise (or substitute with 60 g melted unsalted butter for Connecticut style)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tbsp finely chopped celery (optional)
• 1 tbsp finely chopped chives or scallions
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Rolls
• 4 split-top brioche rolls or New England–style hot dog buns
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for toasting rolls)
• To Serve
• Lemon wedges
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

In a medium bowl, gently combine the lobster meat with mayonnaise (or melted butter), lemon juice, celery, and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Spread the softened butter on the sides of each brioche roll. Toast the rolls in the skillet until golden brown on both sides, about 1–2 minutes per side.

Step 3

Open each toasted roll and generously fill with the lobster mixture.

Step 4

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to add a pinch of Old Bay seasoning or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the lobster dressing.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is easily adapted. For the classic New England style, use mayonnaise. For a Connecticut variation, simply replace the mayonnaise with warm melted butter. To create a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.

Serviervorschläge

Complete your meal by serving the lobster rolls with classic sides like kettle-cooked potato chips or a fresh, crunchy coleslaw for a full meal experience.

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Whether you're enjoying a sunny afternoon barbecue or looking for a special weeknight treat, these New England Lobster Rolls bring a touch of coastal charm to any occasion. Simple, fresh, and unbelievably delicious, they are sure to become a favorite.

Recipe FAQs

→ What's the difference between New England and Connecticut style lobster rolls?

New England style dresses the lobster with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and herbs for a creamy, tangy finish. Connecticut style skips the mayo and uses warm melted butter to coat the lobster, creating a richer, buttery experience that's perfect for seafood purists.

→ Can I use frozen lobster meat?

Yes, frozen lobster meat works well if fresh isn't available. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight, then pat it dry before combining with the dressing. The texture will still be delicious, though fresh lobster typically has superior sweetness and tenderness.

→ What type of bun is best for lobster rolls?

Split-top brioche rolls are ideal—their buttery, slightly sweet flavor complements the lobster perfectly. Traditional New England-style hot dog buns with flat sides are also excellent since they toast evenly and hold the filling securely without falling apart.

→ How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

Toast the rolls thoroughly until golden and crispy on both sides, which creates a barrier against moisture. Also, avoid over-dressing the lobster—just enough coating to bind the meat together. Serve immediately after assembling for the best texture.

→ What sides pair well with lobster rolls?

Kettle-cooked potato chips provide the perfect crunch contrast. Creamy coleslaw complements the sweet lobster, while a simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness. Pickles and extra lemon wedges are classic accompaniments that brighten each bite.

→ Can I make lobster rolls ahead of time?

Prepare the lobster mixture up to 2 hours in advance and refrigerate, covered. Toast the rolls just before serving to maintain their crisp texture. The lobster can be dressed earlier, but avoid adding salt until serving to prevent the meat from becoming watery.