Lobster Roll
Tender, sweet lobster meat lightly tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing with fresh lemon and celery, all piled into a buttery, toasted split-top bun. A classic taste of a New England summer.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Lobster Salad
- b.In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, finely diced celery, fresh chives, and lemon juice until well combined.
- c.Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- d.Gently fold in the chopped, chilled lobster meat, being careful not to break up the chunks too much. The goal is to coat the meat, not mash it.
- e.Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Toast the Buns
- b.While the salad is chilling, prepare the buns. Brush the outside flat surfaces of the split-top buns generously with the melted butter.
- c.Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- d.Place the buns butter-side down in the hot skillet. Toast for 1-2 minutes per side, until they are a deep golden brown and perfectly crisp. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Remove the lobster salad from the refrigerator. Give it one last gentle stir.
- c.Carefully open the warm, toasted buns.
- d.Divide the chilled lobster salad evenly among the four buns, piling it high.
- e.Garnish with a sprinkle of extra fresh chives and serve immediately with potato chips and a pickle spear for the classic experience.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, don't chop the lobster meat too finely; aim for bite-sized chunks.
- 2Split-top buns are key for an authentic lobster roll as they provide a perfect buttery, flat surface for toasting.
- 3The contrast between the warm, buttery bun and the cold, creamy lobster salad is what makes this dish so special. Assemble just before serving.
- 4Ensure your cooked lobster meat is thoroughly chilled before mixing it with the dressing to keep the salad cool and fresh.
- 5Don't overdress the lobster. The mayonnaise should bind the ingredients, not overpower the sweet flavor of the lobster meat.
Adapt it for your goals.
Connecticut-Style
For a different regional take, skip the mayonnaise dressing. Instead, toss the warm lobster meat with 4 tablespoons of melted butter and a squeeze of lemon juice before piling it into the toasted bun.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the mayonnaise dressing for a bit of heat.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh tarragon or dill into the salad for a different flavor profile that pairs beautifully with seafood.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Lobster is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Source of Key Minerals
This shellfish is packed with important minerals like zinc, which boosts the immune system, and selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Contains Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Lobster provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
A typical homemade lobster roll has approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of mayonnaise and butter used. Restaurant versions can often be higher.