These shrimp rolls offer a refreshing seafood experience with a zesty herb mayonnaise and buttery toasted buns. They are quick to prepare and perfect for a high-protein lunch or a summer dinner party.
List of ingredients
- 2 lbs shrimp, cleaned with tails and veins removed – use large or jumbo for best texture.
- 2 tsp sea salt – for the boiling water.
- Juice from half a lemon – adds acidity to the poaching liquid.
- Large pot of boiling water – for cooking the shrimp.
- Ice bath – essential to stop the cooking process immediately.
- 8 hot dog buns – brioche or New England style work best.
- 8 tsp butter (1 tsp per bun) – for toasting the buns.
- 1 cup mayonnaise – the base for the creamy dressing.
- 1 cup diced celery – provides a necessary crunch.
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (bottoms) – adds a mild onion flavor.
- 1/3 cup chopped dill – provides a fresh, herby note.
- 1/4 cup chopped chives – adds a subtle garlic-like taste.
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley – adds brightness and color.
- 2 tsp chopped capers – provides a salty, briny punch.
- 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard – adds tang and depth.
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar – provides acidity (substitute for red wine vinegar).
- Zest of 1 lemon – for concentrated citrus flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, grated or pressed – for a pungent aromatic base.
- 1 tsp paprika – adds a hint of smokiness and color.
- 1/2 tsp garlic salt – enhances the savory profile.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder – adds a rounded sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp sea salt – to season the dressing.
- Fresh cracked pepper – for a sharp, spicy finish.
step-by-step instructions
- Prepare the poaching liquid: Boil a large pot of water over a medium to high flame, stirring in 2 tsp of sea salt and the juice from half a lemon.
- Mix the dressing: While the water is coming to a boil, combine the mayonnaise, diced celery, green onions, dill, chives, parsley, capers, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, lemon zest, garlic, paprika, garlic salt, onion powder, sea salt, and cracked pepper in a medium bowl.
- Cook the shrimp: Carefully add the cleaned shrimp to the boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes until opaque, then immediately transfer them to the ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Toast the buns: Apply butter to the inside and top of the hot dog buns. Place them under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent them from burning.
- Combine and assemble: Remove the shrimp from the ice bath and drain well. Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces and fold them into the prepared mayonnaise dressing. Stuff the shrimp mixture generously into the toasted buns.
- Final touch: Garnish each roll with an additional squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of sea salt, fresh cracked pepper, and a pinch of parsley.
Essential Shrimp Preparation Tips
Selecting the Best Shrimp Size
For shrimp rolls, large or jumbo shrimp are ideal because they maintain a meaty texture after chopping. Smaller shrimp can become mushy or disappear into the mayonnaise. Ensure they are peeled and deveined to ensure a smooth eating experience.
Properly Cleaning Fresh Shrimp
If you are using fresh shrimp, use a small knife or kitchen shears to remove the shell and the tail. Make a shallow slit down the back to remove the dark vein. Always rinse them with cold water, as warm water can begin to cook the proteins prematurely.
The Role of the Ice Bath
The ice bath is critical for achieving the perfect shrimp texture. Because shrimp cook very quickly, carry-over cooking can make them rubbery even after they are removed from the pot. Plunging them into ice water stops the heat instantly.
Identifying the Perfect Cook Time
Watch for the shrimp to curl into a ‘C’ shape; this indicates they are perfectly cooked. If they curl tightly into an ‘O’ shape, they are overcooked. The 2-3 minute window is a guide, but visual cues are the most reliable indicator.
Customizing the Filling
Using Alternative Fresh Herbs
While dill and chives are traditional, you can experiment with other fresh herbs. Substituting some of the parsley with cilantro or adding a pinch of tarragon can create a different flavor profile. Always use fresh herbs rather than dried for the best taste.
Reducing the Mayo Content
If you prefer a lighter dressing, replace half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or sour cream. This reduces the fat content while maintaining the creamy consistency. Note that this may increase the tanginess of the filling.
Adding Extra Vegetable Crunch
For more texture, consider adding finely diced red onion or thinly sliced radishes to the mix. These additions provide a sharp contrast to the creamy mayonnaise and the tender shrimp. Keep the dice small so the filling stays cohesive.
Adjusting the Citrus Intensity
If the filling feels too heavy, increase the amount of lemon zest or add a teaspoon of lime juice. The acid cuts through the fat of the mayonnaise and brightens the overall flavor. Balance this by adding a pinch more salt if necessary.
Bun Selection and Toasting Guides
Choosing the Right Bread
Split-top New England style buns are the gold standard for this recipe because they provide more surface area for toasting. Brioche buns are also an excellent choice due to their high butter content and sweetness. Avoid standard white buns as they lack the structural integrity to hold the filling.
Using a Skillet for Toasting
If you do not have a broiler, you can toast the buns in a skillet over medium heat. Melt butter in the pan and press the sides of the buns down until they are golden brown. This method allows for more control over the browning process.
Preventing Burnt Edges
Buns can go from toasted to burnt in a matter of seconds under a broiler. Place the oven rack in the middle position rather than the top to avoid hotspots. Stay by the oven and remove the buns the moment they reach a golden hue.
Dairy-Free Butter Alternatives
To make this recipe dairy-free, use a plant-based butter substitute or a high-quality olive oil. Olive oil provides a more savory, earthy flavor that complements the shrimp well. Ensure the oil is heated sufficiently before adding the buns.
Serving and Presentation
Plating for Guests
Serve the rolls on a large platter lined with parchment paper or lettuce leaves for a professional look. Place a small bowl of extra lemon wedges on the side so guests can adjust the acidity. This presentation keeps the table clean and organized.
Recommended Side Pairings
These rolls pair perfectly with a crisp coleslaw or a side of sea salt potato chips. A light cucumber salad with a vinaigrette also balances the richness of the buttered buns. Avoid heavy sides that might compete with the delicate flavor of the shrimp.
Adding Visual Garnishes
A sprinkle of smoked paprika on top of the filling adds a pop of color and a hint of earthiness. Freshly chopped chives or a sprig of dill can also enhance the presentation. These small additions make the dish look like it came from a seaside restaurant.
Maintaining Bun Crispness
Stuff the buns immediately before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. If you are preparing a large batch, toast the buns and keep them warm in a low-temperature oven. Only combine the shrimp and buns at the last moment.
Storage and Food Safety
Storing the Shrimp Salad
Keep the shrimp filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator, separate from the buns. This prevents the bread from absorbing moisture and getting soft. The salad should be kept at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Handling Leftover Buns
If you have leftover untoasted buns, store them in a sealed plastic bag in the freezer. This prevents them from drying out. Toast them directly from the freezer when you are ready to use them for a fresh taste.
Maximum Refrigeration Time
The shrimp mixture is safe to eat for up to two days when stored properly. After 48 hours, the quality of the mayonnaise and the texture of the shrimp will begin to degrade. Discard any leftovers that exceed this timeframe.
Identifying Spoiled Seafood
Check the shrimp for any strong ammonia-like smell or a slimy texture before using. If the filling develops an off-color or a sour smell, it should be discarded immediately. Always prioritize food safety when handling seafood.
Reheating and Freshness Tips
Why to Avoid Microwaving
Never microwave the shrimp salad, as the heat will break the mayonnaise emulsion and make the shrimp rubbery. The dressing will separate into oil and solids, ruining the texture. Always serve the filling cold.
Reviving Toastiness
If the buns have cooled down, a quick 30-second toast in a toaster oven can bring back the crunch. Avoid over-toasting them a second time, as they will dry out quickly. A light mist of butter can help refresh the flavor.
Correcting Dressing Consistency
If the filling seems too thick after refrigeration, stir in a teaspoon of lemon juice or a small amount of water. This loosens the mayonnaise and makes the mixture easier to scoop into the buns. Stir gently to avoid over-mixing.
Common Troubleshooting
Fixing a Watery Filling
If the salad is too watery, it is usually because the shrimp were not drained well after the ice bath. Use a fine-mesh strainer or pat the chopped shrimp dry with paper towels before adding them to the mayo. You can also add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise to bind the mixture.
Addressing Bland Flavor
If the rolls taste bland, increase the amount of salt or lemon juice. Seafood requires a significant amount of seasoning to shine. Ensure the capers are well-distributed, as they provide the essential briny notes that define this dish.
Correcting Overly Tangy Sauce
If the apple cider vinegar or mustard makes the sauce too tart, add a pinch of sugar or a small amount of extra mayonnaise. This neutralizes the acidity and creates a more balanced flavor. Mix thoroughly and taste again.
Dealing with Rubbery Shrimp
Rubbery shrimp are the result of overcooking. While you cannot reverse this, you can mask the texture by chopping the shrimp into smaller, finer pieces. This makes the toughness less noticeable when combined with the creamy dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, flash-frozen shrimp are an excellent alternative and often taste very fresh. Ensure they are fully thawed in the refrigerator overnight and patted dry before boiling them.
What is the best substitute for capers?
If you do not have capers, finely diced green olives or chopped cornichons are great substitutes. They provide the same salty, pickled flavor profile required for the dressing.
Can this be made vegan?
You can create a vegan version by using vegan mayonnaise and replacing the shrimp with hearts of palm or seasoned tofu. Use a plant-based butter for toasting the buns to keep the dish entirely plant-based.
How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?
The key is to toast the buns thoroughly, which creates a fat barrier with the butter. Additionally, ensure the shrimp are drained perfectly and only fill the buns right before you intend to eat them.
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East Coast Style Shrimp Rolls
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 8 shrimp rolls 1x
- Diet: General
Description
My East Coast Shrimp Rolls recipe will make you feel like you are spending the day along the Atlantic. It is easy to make and combines the shrimp with a scrumptious herb mayo and buttered bun for a New England experience no matter where you live.
Ingredients
- 2 tsp sea salt
- Juice from half a lemon
- 2 lbs shrimp, cleaned with tails and veins removed
- 8 hot dog buns
- 8 tsp butter (1 tsp per bun)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (bottoms)
- 1/3 cup chopped dill
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 tsp chopped capers
- 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 cloves garlic, grated or pressed
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic salt
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- Fresh cracked pepper
Instructions
- Step: Boil a large pot of water over a medium to high flame with 2 tsp of sea salt and juice from half the lemon.
- Step: While waiting for it to boil, mix the mayonnaise dressing ingredients together in a medium sized bowl.
- Step: Once the water is boiling add the shrimp for 2-3 minutes and then immediately remove and add them to the ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Step: Butter the buns on the inside and on the top, then broil them for 1-2 minutes.
- Step: Remove the shrimp from the ice bath, chop them, and combine with the mayo mix.
- Step: Stuff the hot dog buns and top with an additional squeeze of lemon juice, sea salt, pepper and parsley.
Notes
Use fresh herbs for the best flavor profile. If you have leftovers, store the shrimp mix separately from the hot dog buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Boiling, Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shrimp roll
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg