Shrimp Rolls

The buttery crunch of toasted brioche meets a refreshing, lemon-herb shrimp salad in this easy coastal-inspired recipe. These shrimp rolls are a beautiful blend of texture and flavor, cool, creamy shrimp with crisp celery and zesty lemon wrapped in a soft, golden bun.

Perfect for warm weather lunches or light dinners, these shrimp rolls bring New England charm right to your kitchen. They’re simple to make, refreshingly satisfying, and ideal for entertaining or enjoying al fresco with a cold drink. Add a side of chips or slaw, and you’ve got a meal that tastes like a seaside escape.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1/4 cup finely diced celery

• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 4 brioche or hot dog buns

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

• Optional: shredded lettuce for serving

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.

2. Pat the shrimp dry, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, celery, dill, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

4. Fold in the chopped shrimp until evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.

5. Meanwhile, spread butter on the outer sides of each bun. Toast in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides.

6. Fill each bun with chilled shrimp mixture. Add shredded lettuce if desired. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Shrimp Rolls: A Taste of Coastal Comfort

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about biting into a perfectly chilled shrimp roll, nestled in a buttery toasted bun, with its creamy, lemony dressing bursting with herbaceous flavor. Popularized in New England and coastal areas of the United States, shrimp rolls offer a refreshing alternative to their lobster counterparts. They’re luxurious without being expensive, light yet satisfying, and incredibly easy to make at home.

While traditionally associated with summer, shrimp rolls are versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, whether you’re hosting a backyard brunch, preparing a quick lunch, or craving something indulgent but not too heavy. In this guide, we’ll take a deeper look at what makes shrimp rolls so special, explore tips for choosing and preparing ingredients, and offer serving suggestions that turn this humble dish into a memorable meal.

Why Shrimp Rolls Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Collection

Shrimp rolls are the kind of recipe that bridges the gap between gourmet and everyday cooking. They offer the elegance of seafood with the comfort of a sandwich, essentially, they’re the best of both worlds.

Here are a few reasons why shrimp rolls should be a staple in your home kitchen:

• Quick to Make: With minimal cooking required, shrimp rolls can be on the table in under 20 minutes.

• Customizable: From the herbs you use to the type of bun, there are countless ways to personalize your shrimp rolls.

• Impressive Yet Effortless: These rolls look and taste like something you’d order at a seaside bistro, but the recipe is incredibly beginner-friendly.

• Perfect for Entertaining: Make a platter of these rolls and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands. They’re especially popular at picnics, barbecues, and brunches.

The Story Behind the Shrimp Roll

Although lobster rolls tend to get most of the limelight, shrimp rolls have a loyal following, especially along the East Coast. They’re particularly popular in places like Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, where fresh shrimp is abundant and seafood sandwiches are a way of life.

What sets shrimp rolls apart is their more subtle, delicate flavor. While lobster is rich and slightly sweet, shrimp is lighter with a cleaner seafood taste, making it the perfect canvas for bold flavors like lemon, dill, Dijon mustard, and chives. As a result, shrimp rolls often feel fresher and brighter, making them ideal for warmer weather or lighter meals.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Shrimp

The star of the show. Choose large shrimp for this recipe, either fresh or frozen, but make sure they’re peeled and deveined. Cooking shrimp only takes a few minutes, so it’s easy to overdo it. You want them just opaque and firm, never rubbery.

Pro Tip: Poaching shrimp in salted water with a squeeze of lemon keeps them juicy and flavorful. After boiling, quickly shocking them in ice water helps lock in their texture and color.

Mayonnaise

A good-quality mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the dressing. You can use classic mayo or go for light mayo if you prefer. For a twist, try half mayo and half Greek yogurt to lighten things up and add a tangy edge.

Dijon Mustard

This ingredient adds depth and a subtle heat that balances the richness of the mayo. Don’t skip it, it adds that special something.

Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon juice brightens up the whole dish. It’s key for balance, especially when working with seafood.

Celery

Adds crunch and a hint of bitterness, which plays well with the richness of the shrimp and mayo.

Fresh Herbs

Dill and chives are traditional, but parsley or tarragon work well, too. Herbs elevate the freshness and provide a pleasant contrast to the creamy dressing.

Brioche or Split-Top Buns

Brioche buns are buttery, soft, and slightly sweet, perfect for shrimp rolls. The classic New England-style split-top hot dog buns are ideal if you can find them. Toasting them in butter adds texture and enhances their flavor.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Rolls Every Time

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: This is the number one rule. Overcooked shrimp becomes chewy and rubbery. Stick to 2–3 minutes, then cool them immediately.

2. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill and chives make a big difference in flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the same brightness.

3. Refrigerate Before Serving: Letting the shrimp mixture chill for 30 minutes (or up to a few hours) helps the flavors meld and improves the overall taste.

4. Toast the Buns Properly: A light coating of butter and a hot skillet is all you need. A golden, crispy exterior enhances every bite.

5. Optional Add-ins: Add a bit of Old Bay seasoning for a kick, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version. Some people love adding diced pickles or a teaspoon of capers for a tangy contrast.

How to Serve Shrimp Rolls

The beauty of shrimp rolls is that they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Casual Lunch

Serve with a side of potato chips, pickles, and an iced tea or lemonade. Perfect for warm weather meals.

Fancy Brunch

Plate the rolls with a mixed greens salad, sparkling water with citrus slices, and a light dessert like lemon bars or fruit salad.

Summer Gathering

Make mini versions using slider buns for an appetizer. Add a platter of fresh fruit, corn on the cob, and maybe some chilled rosé.

As a Light Dinner

Pair with a bowl of chilled gazpacho or a creamy corn chowder. Shrimp rolls make a satisfying yet light evening meal.

Wine & Drink Pairings

• White Wines: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with the lemon and herbs in the shrimp filling.

• Rosé: A dry rosé is both elegant and refreshing.

• Beer: Light lagers, wheat beers, or pilsners work great, especially if you’re serving shrimp rolls at a BBQ.

• Mocktails: Cucumber lemonade or mint lime spritzers are perfect non-alcoholic pairings.

Storing & Make-Ahead Tips

Shrimp salad can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, for best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to toast the buns and assemble the rolls just before serving.

Do not freeze the assembled rolls or shrimp salad. The creamy dressing won’t hold up well to freezing and thawing.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Cajun Shrimp Rolls: Add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning and a splash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture.

• Avocado Shrimp Rolls: Add diced avocado and swap mayo for a blend of mashed avocado and Greek yogurt.

• Asian-Inspired Shrimp Rolls: Use sesame oil, rice vinegar, and chopped green onions with a touch of sriracha.

Health & Nutrition

Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein option that’s also a good source of selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. While mayo adds fat, it can be moderated or substituted. The result is a balanced meal with carbs, protein, and healthy fats.

You can also use whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps for a lower-carb version.

Conclusion

Shrimp rolls are a celebration of simplicity done right. They take only minutes to prepare but feel luxurious and indulgent. Whether you’re reminiscing about a beach vacation or just want a fresh, flavorful dish on a hot day, shrimp rolls deliver satisfaction without the fuss.

With endless room for customization, they can be your go-to recipe for lunch, dinner, or entertaining. Once you master the basic formula, you’ll find yourself craving these rolls again and again and so will your guests. The creamy dressing, the gentle brininess of the shrimp, and the crunch of that buttery toasted bun is truly the taste of coastal comfort in every bite.