Lobster Rolls Recipe

Lobster tails: Cooked and chopped, these are the star of the dish, providing a rich and succulent flavor.

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and binds the lobster mixture together.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed, it adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the lobster.

Chives: Chopped, they add a mild onion-like flavor and a pop of color.

Split-top hot dog buns: These buns are perfect for holding the lobster mixture, and their shape makes them easy to fill.

Butter: Melted, it is used to toast the buns, adding a rich, buttery flavor.

When preparing the lobster tails, make sure to not overcook them. Overcooking can make the lobster meat tough and chewy. To achieve the perfect texture, cook the lobster tails just until they turn bright red and the meat is opaque. After boiling, immediately transfer the lobster tails to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and maintain their tenderness.

• cooked and chopped lobster tails - Substitute with cooked and chopped shrimp: Shrimp has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative to lobster.

• cooked and chopped lobster tails - Substitute with crab meat: Crab meat offers a sweet and delicate flavor that can mimic the taste of lobster in a roll.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture with a tangy flavor, making it a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, which can brighten up the dish just like lemon juice.

• chopped chives - Substitute with green onions: Green onions provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a direct replacement for chives.

• split-top hot dog buns - Substitute with brioche buns: Brioche buns are soft and slightly sweet, making them a great alternative to traditional hot dog buns.

• melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used to add richness and moisture to the buns, similar to melted butter.

• To store leftover lobster rolls, place the lobster mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• Keep the hot dog buns separate from the lobster mixture to prevent them from becoming soggy. Store the buns in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature.
• If you plan to freeze the lobster mixture, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
• Avoid freezing the hot dog buns as they can become dry and lose their texture. Instead, purchase fresh buns when you're ready to serve.
• When reheating the lobster mixture, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain its delicate texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the lobster rubbery.
• For a quick refresh, brush the hot dog buns with a bit of melted butter and toast them in a skillet until golden brown before filling them with the lobster mixture.
• If you have extra lemon juice and chives, store them separately in small containers. Fresh lemon juice can be refrigerated for up to a week, while chives can be wrapped in a damp paper towel and stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each lobster roll in aluminum foil to keep the bread from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• If you prefer using a microwave, place the lobster roll on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.

• For a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the lobster roll in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the lobster rolls in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes. This method will help maintain the bread's crispiness while warming the lobster mixture.

• For a quick steam method, bring a pot of water to a simmer and place a steaming basket over it. Wrap the lobster rolls in parchment paper or aluminum foil and place them in the basket. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

• Large pot: Used to cook the lobster tails in boiling water until they turn bright red.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the chopped lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chives.

• Skillet: Used to toast the hot dog buns after brushing them with melted butter.

• Brush: Used to apply melted butter to the inside of the hot dog buns.

• Knife: Used to chop the cooked lobster tails into bite-sized pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the lobster tails.

• Tongs: Used to handle the hot lobster tails safely when removing them from the boiling water.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the mayonnaise and lemon juice accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the chopped chives and other small quantities of ingredients.

• Spoon: Used to mix the lobster meat with the other ingredients in the mixing bowl.

Prepare the lobster ahead: Cook and chop the lobster tails in advance to save time on the day you plan to serve the lobster rolls.

Use pre-cooked lobster: Purchase pre-cooked lobster meat from the store to skip the cooking step entirely.

Pre-mix the dressing: Combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chives ahead of time and store in the fridge.

Toast buns simultaneously: Use a large skillet or grill to toast all hot dog buns at once, saving time.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt the butter in the microwave instead of on the stove.