There’s something undeniably special about a lobster roll. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and comfort, much like the essence of Nantucket Island. Inspired by the coastal setting of The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand, these lobster rolls are the ideal dish to elevate your next book club meeting or summer gathering. Fresh, sweet lobster tossed in a light, creamy dressing with a hint of lemon and piled into a buttery, toasted bun brings the flavors of the sea right to your plate. It’s a true taste of Nantucket, easy to make, and utterly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Nantucket Dish – Lobster rolls are a staple of Nantucket’s coastal cuisine, making them a perfect fit for the setting of The Five-Star Weekend. They’re not only delicious but also embody the laid-back yet luxurious vibe of the island.
- Quick & Easy – While lobster rolls may seem like a fancy dish, they’re surprisingly simple to make. The recipe only requires a few ingredients, and the process is quick, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your book club or beach day!
- Comfort Food with a Gourmet Twist – The fresh lobster mixed with a creamy dressing, lemon zest, and a buttery toasted bun creates a satisfying and indulgent bite. It’s comfort food at its best, with a touch of elegance that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
To make the perfect lobster rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked lobster meat (freshly boiled or pre-cooked lobster tails, chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably a high-quality, light mayo)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (plus extra zest for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 4 New England-style hot dog buns (the soft, split-top variety)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for toasting the buns)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster
If you’re using whole lobster, you’ll need to boil it first. Simply drop the lobster into a large pot of salted boiling water and cook for about 8-10 minutes, depending on size. Once done, remove from the pot and let it cool before removing the meat. Chop the lobster into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and chopped chives. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If you love a little extra lemon flavor, add a touch of lemon zest to the dressing to give it a fresh, zesty kick.
Step 3: Assemble the Lobster Rolls
Gently toss the lobster meat into the creamy dressing. Be careful not to break the lobster up too much – you want the pieces to stay chunky and flavorful. Once well-coated, set the mixture aside while you prepare the buns.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Slice the buns in half (but don’t cut all the way through; you want them to stay connected on one side), and butter the cut sides generously. Place the buns, buttered-side down, onto the skillet. Toast them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. This adds a beautiful texture and rich flavor to the lobster rolls.
Step 5: Assemble the Rolls
Once the buns are toasted, gently spoon the lobster mixture into each bun, making sure each one is generously filled. Optionally, you can garnish the lobster rolls with a little extra lemon zest or chopped chives for added flavor and color.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the lobster rolls immediately with a lemon wedge on the side. They pair perfectly with fresh potato chips, a side salad, or even a refreshing cocktail. Your book club will love the taste of Nantucket that these rolls bring to the table.
Tips for the Perfect Lobster Roll
- Fresh Lobster is Key – The fresher the lobster, the better the flavor. If you can get your hands on freshly cooked lobster, it’s worth the extra effort for this dish.
- Don’t Overdo the Mayo – The lobster should be the star of the dish, so don’t drown it in mayo. Just a light coating to add creaminess and flavor is perfect.
- Use High-Quality Buns – Traditional New England-style buns are ideal for lobster rolls. They’re soft, slightly sweet, and perfectly suited to hold the juicy lobster mixture without falling apart.
- Customize the Filling – While this recipe keeps things simple and classic, feel free to experiment! You can add a dash of Old Bay seasoning, fresh herbs like dill, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce for some heat.
Why These Lobster Rolls Are Perfect for The Five-Star Weekend
In The Five-Star Weekend, Hollis Shaw organizes a luxurious retreat to reconnect with her friends and move through the grief of losing her husband. These lobster rolls are a nod to that blend of luxury and comfort. They bring the elegance of Nantucket’s coastline into your book club gathering while providing a hearty, satisfying dish that’s simple to prepare and share with friends. Just like Hollis’s journey, these rolls bring a bit of indulgence with the perfect balance of lightness and richness.
Whether you’re hosting a beachside book club or craving a dish that captures the essence of The Five-Star Weekend, these lobster rolls will undoubtedly impress. Don’t stop here—explore more book-inspired recipes and our complete book club discussion guide for a truly immersive literary experience. Serve these rolls at your next gathering and savor a taste of Nantucket, wherever you may be!
Happy eating and reading!
