Lunch

Lobster Roll

Name: Lobster Roll
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 live lobsters, 1.5 pounds each; 4 split-top hot dog buns; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 2 celery stalks, finely diced; Salt and black pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

The definitive New England lobster roll: sweet, tender lobster meat bound with just enough mayo and a squeeze of lemon, served cold on a buttered and toasted split-top bun. Simple, elegant, and entirely about the lobster.

338calper serving 25gprotein 22gcarbs 16gfat 20min prep 10min cook 4serves

✓ Macros from a nutrition database · per serving · developed by The Delicious Kitchen with AI assistance, not independently kitchen-tested · how we calculate this

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Lobster Roll — common questions

Can I make lobster rolls ahead?

Cook and pick the lobster meat up to 6 hours ahead and keep it chilled in an airtight container. Make the mayo mixture just before serving. Do not fill the buns more than 15 minutes in advance or they will soften.

What if I can't find fresh lobsters?

Use frozen lobster tails (thaw overnight in the fridge): boil a 1.5-pound tail for 8–10 minutes. Alternatively, buy pre-cooked lobster meat from the seafood counter, but verify it was cooked fresh that day—it should smell like the ocean, not fishy.

Should I use more mayo for a richer roll?

No. The classic New England version uses just 3/4 tablespoon mayo per roll—enough to bind, not to drown. More mayo masks the lobster. If you prefer creamier, make it Connecticut-style by warming the mixture gently with 1 tablespoon butter instead, but serve it hot on a toasted bun.

What's the biggest mistake people make?

Overworking or chopping the lobster meat into small pieces. Keep chunks large so you get bites of whole, tender meat. Fold gently once or twice only.

What should I serve with lobster rolls?

Chilled white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chablis), cold beer, or crisp rosé. Serve alongside coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette.

Can I reheat leftover lobster rolls?

Do not reheat filled rolls—the lobster will become rubbery. Store the lobster salad separately in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reassemble on fresh toasted buns.