Maine Style Lobster Rolls (Print)

Sweet lobster meat in lightly dressed mayonnaise, served in buttery toasted split-top buns.

# Ingredient List:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped (claws, knuckles, and tails)

→ Dressing

02 - 4 tbsp mayonnaise
03 - 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
04 - 1 celery stalk, finely diced
05 - 1 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped
06 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Rolls

07 - 4 top-split hot dog buns (New England style if available)
08 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Garnish (optional)

09 - Lemon wedges
10 - Crisp lettuce leaves

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a medium bowl, gently combine the lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Butter the outsides of each bun, then toast in the skillet until golden brown on both sides, approximately 1–2 minutes per side.
03 - Optionally line each toasted bun with a crisp lettuce leaf. Fill generously with the chilled lobster salad and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The buttery toasted rolls create the perfect contrast to cool, sweet lobster meat
  • Ready in under 30 minutes but tastes like a special occasion treat
02 -
  • Never overmix the lobster salad or the meat will become tough and rubbery
  • Toasting the rolls is essential as it creates a barrier that keeps the bread from getting soggy
03 -
  • Buy whole lobsters and pick the meat yourself for the freshest flavor and best value
  • Let the dressed lobster sit for 15 minutes in the fridge before serving for melded flavors