Maine Lobster Roll
A classic Maine summer delight featuring succulent lobster meat lightly dressed and served in a perfectly toasted, buttered split-top bun.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Lobster meat(Freshly cooked and chilled, or high-quality pre-cooked lobster meat. Ensure it's picked clean of any shell fragments.)
- 3 tbsp Mayonnaise(Good quality, full-fat mayonnaise for best flavor.)
- 4 Split-top hot dog buns(Authentic split-top (New England style) buns are traditional and hold the filling best.)
- 3 tbsp Unsalted butter(Melted, for toasting the buns.)
- 2 tbsp Celery(Finely minced for a subtle crunch and freshness.)
- 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice(Adds brightness and cuts through the richness.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper(Freshly ground preferred.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the lobster meat: If using whole cooked lobsters, extract the meat from the tail, claws, and knuckles. Discard any shell. Chop the lobster meat into bite-sized pieces, about 1/2-inch chunks. You want some texture, not finely minced. If using pre-cooked meat, ensure it's chilled and then chop as directed. Set aside.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Make the lobster salad: In a medium bowl, gently combine the chopped lobster meat, mayonnaise, minced celery, and fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Mix carefully to avoid breaking up the lobster too much. The goal is to lightly coat the lobster, not to drown it.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Toast the buns: Melt the butter in a large skillet or on a griddle over medium heat (approximately 175°C / 350°F). Place the split-top buns cut-side down into the melted butter. Toast for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crisp. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Assemble and serve: Generously fill each toasted bun with the prepared lobster salad. Serve immediately while the buns are warm and crisp for the best experience.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fresh, high-quality lobster meat is key to an exceptional lobster roll.
- ✓Avoid over-mixing the lobster salad to maintain the texture of the meat.
- ✓The split-top bun is traditional as it allows for even buttering and toasting, creating a perfect vessel.
- ✓Serve immediately after assembly for optimal texture and temperature contrast.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Connecticut style: Serve the lobster meat warm, tossed with melted butter instead of mayonnaise.
- Add a pinch of Old Bay seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the lobster mixture for a little kick.
- Incorporate finely chopped chives or parsley for added freshness and color.