Description
A classic New England-style lobster roll featuring tender, buttery lobster meat lightly warmed in butter, tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing with a hint of lemon and chives, served in toasted split-top buns. Perfect for a quick, elegant seafood sandwich.
Ingredients
Scale
Lobster Filling
- 1 lb cooked lobster meat (from 2–3 medium lobsters)
- 2–3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 celery rib, finely diced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
- 1 dash hot sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For Toasting and Serving
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 New England-style split-top buns
- Lettuce leaves (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Lobster: Drain the cooked lobster meat and pat it dry gently with paper towels. Cut into chunky pieces if necessary to ensure even distribution in the roll.
- Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced celery (if using), mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped chives, a dash of hot sauce, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to make a smooth, flavorful dressing. Set aside for flavors to meld.
- Warm Lobster in Butter: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the lobster meat and toss gently to coat with the butter. Cook for about 2 minutes, just until the lobster is warmed through. Using a slotted spoon, remove the lobster from the skillet, allowing any excess butter to drain off, and immediately toss it into the prepared dressing to absorb the flavors.
- Toast the Buns: Wipe the skillet clean and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Lightly dip the flat sides of each New England-style split-top bun into the melted butter. Place the buns butter-side down on the skillet and toast until golden brown on both sides, enhancing their flavor and texture.
- Assemble the Rolls: Open each toasted bun and optionally place a lettuce leaf inside for a fresh crunch. Divide the lobster mixture evenly among the buns, placing a generous quarter of the lobster salad into each roll. Garnish with extra chopped chives if desired and serve immediately for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Use fresh lobster meat for the best flavor and texture.
- Celery is optional but adds a nice crunch if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your desired creaminess.
- Hot sauce can be omitted or adjusted to taste.
- New England-style split-top buns are traditional and ideal; substitutes can be brioche or soft sandwich rolls.
- Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the freshness and warmth.
- For a lighter version, use light mayonnaise or a yogurt-based dressing.
