These loaded lobster rolls are the epitome of luxury and comfort rolled into one. The fresh lobster meat combined with a creamy lemon-butter sauce makes for a delectable treat, while the toasted New England rolls give it the perfect crispy contrast. Garnished with fresh herbs and served in an elegant way, these rolls are as beautiful to look at as they are to eat.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a meal by the beach, these lobster rolls make for the perfect main course. They offer a refreshing and indulgent seafood experience that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try them. The fresh, vibrant flavors of lobster, lemon, and butter will transport your taste buds straight to a seaside feast.
Full Recipe:
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2 lobsters, cooked and meat removed
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1 tablespoon butter
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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4 New England-style rolls
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1 tablespoon chives, chopped
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1 tablespoon celery, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon lemon zest
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Lettuce leaves, for garnish
Directions:
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Start by cooking the lobster if not already cooked. Remove the meat and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
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In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the lobster meat and stir gently until warm.
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In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
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Add the warm lobster mixture to the mayonnaise mixture and fold gently to combine. Add the chopped chives, celery, and lemon zest, and stir to incorporate.
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Toast the rolls slightly on the grill or in a skillet until golden brown.
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Fill each roll with the lobster mixture, garnish with lettuce leaves, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Recipe Overview
If you’re a fan of seafood, particularly lobster, then you’ll definitely want to try out the Loaded Lobster Roll. This recipe combines the sweet, succulent taste of lobster with the creamy goodness of a lemon-butter sauce, all wrapped in a soft, slightly toasted roll. Often regarded as a quintessential dish in New England cuisine, lobster rolls are perfect for a summer meal, a special occasion, or even as a luxurious treat for yourself. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it with family and friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy seafood lovers.
Lobster rolls offer the ideal balance of rich flavors and fresh ingredients. The lobster’s natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the zesty lemon and buttery goodness, while the soft roll adds a perfect touch of comfort. If you’ve ever enjoyed this dish on the coast of Maine or other Northeastern regions, you know that there’s something magical about enjoying lobster in a simple yet indulgent way.
This recipe takes the classic lobster roll to the next level, giving you a decadent meal that’s easy to make at home but feels like a treat from a high-end seafood restaurant. The best part? You don’t have to go to a fancy restaurant to enjoy this indulgent dish—you can recreate the experience in your own kitchen.
History and Origin
The lobster roll has long been a staple of New England cuisine, with origins tracing back to the early 20th century. It was first served in Maine, where lobster was abundant and widely available. Over time, it became a beloved sandwich served in seafood shacks along the coastline. Traditionally, lobster rolls were served in two variations: the “Maine-style” lobster roll, which uses mayonnaise-based dressing, and the “Connecticut-style” lobster roll, which is served warm with melted butter. The one thing all lobster rolls have in common is the lobster itself—typically Maine lobster, known for its sweet, tender meat.
While the history of lobster rolls is tied to New England, their popularity has spread far beyond the region. Today, they can be found in coastal restaurants across the United States and have become a symbol of indulgence. While the dish has seen many variations over the years, the simplicity of the lobster roll—lobster, bread, and seasoning—has remained the heart of the recipe.
As the lobster roll has evolved, chefs and home cooks alike have put their own spin on it, experimenting with different sauces, seasonings, and garnishes. From adding spicy aioli to mixing in fresh herbs, there are countless ways to personalize this dish while still keeping its core essence intact.
Variations and Adaptations
While the traditional lobster roll is an iconic New England dish, many variations have emerged over time, reflecting the diverse tastes and preferences of seafood lovers around the world. One of the main variations is the distinction between the two main styles: Maine-style and Connecticut-style.
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Maine-Style Lobster Roll: This version is typically served chilled with a creamy mayonnaise-based sauce, often accented with lemon, chives, and a dash of Old Bay seasoning. The lobster is tossed in the sauce, giving it a rich, tangy flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the lobster. It’s often served in a buttered and toasted New England-style hot dog roll.
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Connecticut-Style Lobster Roll: The Connecticut-style lobster roll is served warm, with the lobster meat simply tossed in melted butter, providing a buttery, rich flavor that allows the lobster’s natural taste to shine. This style can also be served in a toasted roll, though some people prefer to serve it in a soft, steamed roll for a more delicate texture.
Though these are the two primary styles, there are endless adaptations that you can explore. Some variations include adding fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill for added freshness. Others swap out traditional mayo for tangy yogurt or even a spicy aioli to introduce heat. Additionally, some recipes incorporate finely chopped vegetables like celery or scallions to add crunch and color. You could even experiment with adding unique flavors such as curry, garlic butter, or a drizzle of truffle oil to elevate the dish.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try using other seafood in place of lobster, such as crab or shrimp, to create a seafood medley roll. The key to success in any variation is balancing the flavors of the seafood, the bread, and the seasoning so that no one ingredient overwhelms the others.
Nutritional Information
The Loaded Lobster Roll is undoubtedly a luxurious dish, and like many indulgent meals, it’s important to consider the nutritional information when enjoying it. A typical serving of lobster roll—approximately 1 lobster roll—contains around 350-450 calories, depending on the ingredients and serving size. The primary source of these calories comes from the lobster, the butter or mayo, and the roll itself.
Here’s a basic breakdown of the typical nutritional value for a standard lobster roll:
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Calories: 350-450 kcal
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Protein: 25-30 grams
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Fat: 20-25 grams (mostly from butter or mayo)
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Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams (mainly from the roll)
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Fiber: 1-2 grams
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Sodium: 600-800 milligrams (depending on seasoning and butter)
While the lobster meat itself is low in fat and high in protein, the calorie count can increase significantly when you add rich sauces and the buttery rolls. Lobster is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, it’s important to balance this dish with other lighter meals throughout the day, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
The beauty of the Loaded Lobster Roll is that it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish at a family gathering or as a special treat for yourself, here are some creative serving ideas and pairings that will elevate the experience:
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Side Dishes:
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A classic pairing is crispy French fries or sweet potato fries. The salty crunch of the fries complements the richness of the lobster roll perfectly.
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For a lighter side, try a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or even a coleslaw to add crunch and contrast to the soft roll.
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If you’re looking for something more indulgent, a side of corn on the cob or a creamy potato salad can be the perfect complement.
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Drink Pairings:
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For drinks, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay is an excellent match for lobster. The acidity and lightness of these wines balance the richness of the lobster roll.
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If you’re more of a beer person, an IPA or a light lager can also be a great pairing. The hop bitterness of the IPA contrasts nicely with the richness of the lobster and butter.
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For a non-alcoholic option, a lemonade or iced tea with a fresh mint garnish will add a refreshing touch to the meal.
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Tips and Tricks for Success
To make sure your Loaded Lobster Roll turns out perfectly, here are a few tips that will help you achieve the best results:
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Fresh Lobster: Always opt for the freshest lobster possible. If you’re not near the coast, look for live lobster at your local fish market, or if frozen, make sure it’s of high quality.
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Don’t Overcook the Lobster: Overcooking lobster can lead to tough, rubbery meat. Make sure to cook the lobster just until the meat is opaque and tender.
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Toast the Rolls: Lightly butter and toast your rolls in a skillet or on a grill. This adds texture and enhances the flavor.
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Perfect Sauce Balance: Whether you’re using mayo or butter, don’t overdo it—ensure it’s a light coating that enhances the lobster’s natural flavor, rather than overpowering it.
Potential Health Benefits
While lobster rolls are considered a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, they do provide some health benefits thanks to the nutritious ingredients. Lobster itself is a lean source of protein and is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including B12, which is important for nerve health, and selenium, an antioxidant that supports the immune system. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids found in lobster may support heart health and reduce inflammation.
By using healthier ingredients in the sauce, like opting for a lighter mayo or yogurt, you can also make this dish a bit more health-conscious without sacrificing flavor. The freshness of the lobster and the herbs you include in the roll further contribute to the nutritional value, giving you a balanced seafood meal.
Conclusion
The Loaded Lobster Roll is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the sweet and tender lobster to the buttery sauce and toasted roll, every bite is a burst of indulgence and coastal comfort. Whether you stick with the classic Maine-style or try your hand at a Connecticut-style lobster roll, this dish is sure to delight anyone who loves seafood. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this recipe is an absolute must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Give it a go, and you’ll soon find that this decadent dish holds a special place in your culinary repertoire.