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Best-of-Both-Worlds Lobster Roll

This best-of-both-worlds lobster roll offers a sophisticated take on a coastal classic, combining the richness of butter-poached meat with the bright, creamy finish of a traditional dressing. By gently warming the fresh lobster in melted butter before tossing it with lemon and chives, you achieve a depth of flavour that is truly exceptional. It is a high-protein dish that feels indulgent yet fresh, making it a perfect choice for an elegant weekend lunch or a celebratory summer gathering.

Preparing your own lobster at home ensures the sweet, delicate flavour of the seafood is the star of the show. Served in a buttery, toasted split-top bun with a crisp layer of lettuce, these rolls provide a satisfying contrast of textures. For those looking to save time, the lobsters can be steamed and the savoury dressing prepared a day in advance, allowing you to assemble and serve this impressive homemade meal in minutes.

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Ingredients for Best-of-Both-Worlds Lobster Roll

  • 3 (575g) live lobsters

  • 25g mayonnaise

  • 25g chopped celery

  • 1/2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest

  • 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon sliced chives, plus more for serving

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 4 New England–style split-top hot dog buns

  • 2 green lettuce leaves, halved lengthwise

Fit a large pot with a steamer basket and pour in water to come to top of basket. Place over high heat. If desired, dispatch lobsters by using a sharp chef’s knife (and one fell swoop) to split the front section of each between the eyes. Place lobsters in pot, cover, and steam (the pot should be actively filled with steam) until shells are bright red and tails are curled, 6–8 minutes. Let sit until cool enough to handle, 12–15 minutes.

Meanwhile, mix mayonnaise, celery, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon chives in a medium bowl to combine; season dressing with salt and pepper.

Remove lobster meat from shells and cut into large pieces; discard shells. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat; transfer 2 tablespoons melted butter to a small bowl and set aside for brushing buns. Add lobster meat to remaining butter in saucepan and toss to coat. Cook, tossing occasionally, until just warmed through (it should not be hot; you don’t want it to overcook), about 4 minutes. Season with salt, then spoon lobster meat into bowl with dressing with a slotted spoon and gently toss to coat.

Heat a dry large skillet over medium. Brush reserved butter over outsides of buns. Toast, buttered side down, until golden, about 3 minutes per side.

Line each bun with a piece of lettuce and spoon in dressed lobster; top with more chives.

Lobsters can be cooked and shelled and dressing can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill separately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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