Name: Lobster Roll Recipe: Creamy and Coastal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 lb cooked lobster meat (chopped); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp finely chopped celery; 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 4 top-split hot dog buns; 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); Optional: Chopped parsley (lemon wedge); Suggested Pairings: Iced tea (white wine)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Lobster Roll is a classic New England dish, perfect for lunches, summer gatherings, or seafood feasts. This creamy, lightly seasoned lobster salad, served in a toasted bun, delivers a luxurious, fresh flavor with a delightful balance of richness and brightness. Presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a lemon wedge, this Lobster Roll recipe offers a vibrant, coastal aesthetic that elevates any meal. This recipe provides a simple homemade version with minimal ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing seafood dish that brings seaside charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Lobster Roll:

1 lb cooked lobster meat (from about 4 medium lobsters or 2 large), chopped into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp finely chopped celery
1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
4 top-split hot dog buns
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For Serving:

Optional: Chopped fresh parsley, lemon wedge
Suggested Accompaniments: Potato chips, coleslaw, pickles
Suggested Pairings: Iced tea, crisp white wine
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Medium mixing bowl, small brush for butter, skillet or griddle, tongs, measuring cups/spoons, knife

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Lobster: Ensure lobster meat is cooked, cooled, and chopped into bite-sized pieces. Place in a medium mixing bowl.
Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, celery, chives, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust with a pinch more salt, a splash of lemon juice for brightness, or extra chives for freshness to ensure a balanced flavor.
Mix Lobster Salad: Gently fold the dressing into the lobster meat, mixing until evenly coated. Avoid overmixing to maintain lobster texture.
Toast Buns: Brush the outer sides of the hot dog buns with melted butter. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and toast buns for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
Assemble Rolls: Divide the lobster salad evenly among the toasted buns, filling each generously.
Serve: Arrange rolls on a white ceramic platter. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley or a lemon wedge. Serve with potato chips, coleslaw, pickles, iced tea, or crisp white wine.

Tips for Better Lobster Roll

Use fresh or high-quality pre-cooked lobster meat for the best flavor and texture.
Taste the dressing before mixing with lobster to balance creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors; adjust sparingly.
Chop lobster into bite-sized pieces for easy eating, but keep chunks large enough to showcase the meat.
Toast buns just before serving to maintain crispness and warmth.
Present on a white ceramic platter to highlight the creamy lobster salad and golden buns.
Make ahead: Prepare lobster salad up to 4 hours in advance; store in the fridge and assemble just before serving.
Keep lobster cold until mixing to maintain freshness.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with parsley or a lemon wedge for a bright, coastal pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Lobster Roll: Use gluten-free hot dog buns or lettuce wraps; ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Dairy-Free Lobster Roll: Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise and use olive oil or vegan butter for toasting buns.
Low-Sodium Lobster Roll: Reduce salt to 1/4 tsp and adjust to taste.
Spicy Lobster Roll: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tsp hot sauce to the dressing.
Herbed Lobster Roll: Include 1 tsp chopped fresh dill or tarragon in the dressing for extra herbaceous flavor.
Connecticut-Style Lobster Roll: Skip the mayonnaise dressing, toss warm lobster meat with 2 tbsp melted butter, and serve in toasted buns.
Avocado Lobster Roll: Add 1/4 cup diced avocado to the lobster salad for creamy richness.
Light Lobster Roll: Use half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store lobster salad (without buns) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; stir gently before serving.
Do not freeze, as the mayonnaise dressing will separate and the lobster texture will degrade.
Serve immediately after assembling for the best texture and flavor.
Use as a main dish with light sides or as a luxurious sandwich for lunches.
Pair with iced tea or crisp white wine to complement the delicate, creamy flavors.
Present on a white ceramic platter with garnishes for a fresh, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1 roll each):

Calories: 380 kcal
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 125mg
Sodium: 650mg
Total Carbohydrates: 24g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 24g
Vitamin A: 6% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 8% Daily Value
Calcium: 10% Daily Value
Iron: 12% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (dairy-free options reduce saturated fat). Moderate in calories; pair with light sides for balance.

Conclusion

This Lobster Roll recipe delivers a creamy, coastal main dish perfect for summer gatherings or seafood feasts, transforming simple ingredients into a luxurious favorite. Its quick preparation and vibrant presentation make it a go-to. The tender lobster and toasted bun delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing elegance.