Lobster Rolls are a New England classic, featuring tender chunks of lobster meat tossed in a light dressing, served on a buttery toasted roll. There are two popular versions: the Maine-style lobster roll, with a mayonnaise-based dressing, and the Connecticut-style lobster roll, served warm with butter. Here’s how to make both:
Maine-Style Lobster Roll (Cold with Mayo)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked lobster meat (claws and tail), cut into chunks
- 2-3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives or celery, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hot dog-style buns or brioche rolls
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Lobster Filling: In a bowl, combine the lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chives or celery (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss to coat, being careful not to overmix.
- Toast the Buns: Brush the outside of the buns with melted butter. In a hot skillet, grill the buns until golden brown and toasted on both sides.
- Assemble the Rolls: Optionally, place a lettuce leaf inside each toasted bun, then fill generously with the lobster mixture.
- Serve: Enjoy your lobster rolls with chips, fries, or a light salad on the side.
Connecticut-Style Lobster Roll (Warm with Butter)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked lobster meat, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hot dog-style buns or brioche rolls
- 2 tablespoons butter for toasting buns
Instructions:
- Heat the Lobster: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Gently warm the lobster meat in the butter until heated through (do not overcook).
- Toast the Buns: Brush the outside of the buns with butter and toast them in a skillet until golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Rolls: Fill the toasted buns with the warm buttered lobster meat.
- Serve: Serve warm lobster rolls immediately with extra melted butter on the side, if desired.
Tips:
- Buns: Use split-top hot dog buns or brioche rolls for the best texture.
- Lobster: Freshly cooked lobster is best, but pre-cooked lobster meat from a fishmonger or grocery store is a good alternative.
These lobster rolls are perfect for summer meals, and you can’t go wrong with either version!