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When summer heat rolls in and the days grow long, my mind wanders to those sun-soaked coastal escapes. That’s when I can’t resist making Classic New England Shrimp Rolls. Picture this: freshly steamed shrimp tossed in a luscious mayo-based dressing, all nestled in buttery, toasted buns. The first bite is a burst of flavor, with the sweetness of the shrimp dancing against the creamy backdrop of mayonnaise and a hint of zesty lemon.

I stumbled upon this recipe on a lazy afternoon, flipping through food blogs and dreaming about seaside picnics. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, these rolls are not only delicious but also a lifesaver for quick summer meals. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual gathering or just indulging in a satisfying lunch at home, these shrimp rolls offer the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and coastal charm. Ready to dive in? Let’s get rolling!

Why are New England Shrimp Rolls a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze, requiring just a few key ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for busy summer days.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of succulent shrimp with creamy mayo and zesty lemon creates a vibrant taste that transports you straight to the coast.

Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with gourmet flavors in under 30 minutes—ideal for casual gatherings or beach picnics.

Versatility: Swap ingredients to suit your taste, whether it’s adding Greek yogurt for a lighter twist or serving in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.

Crowd Pleaser: With its rich flavors and adorable presentation, this dish is sure to delight your friends and family!

New England Shrimp Rolls Ingredients

• Dive into this summery delight with just a handful of ingredients!

For the Shrimp Salad

Fresh or Frozen Shrimp – Main protein, providing the core flavor; substitute with crawfish or lobster for a twist.
Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and helps to bind the salad; replace with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Minced Onion – Provides a mild bite and sweetness; use chives or green onions for a milder flavor.
Minced Celery – Adds crunch and freshness; can swap for diced bell peppers for a different texture.
Juice of 1/2 Lemon – Enhances flavor with acidity; lime juice works as a great alternative.
Salt and Fresh Cracked Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to preference.

For the Buns

Hot Dog Buns (top split style) – The perfect vessel for the shrimp salad; substitute with brioche or whole grain rolls for variety.
Melted Butter – Used to toast the buns for added richness; olive oil is a healthier option.

For Garnishing

Paprika or Old Bay Seasoning – Adds a touch of flavor and color; optional for that extra kick.
Snipped Chives – Provides an aesthetic and flavor boost; optional for finishing touches.

How to Make New England Shrimp Rolls

Prep Shrimp: If you’re using frozen shrimp, start by thawing them under cool running water. Then, steam or sauté shrimp until cooked through, typically about 3-4 minutes. Allow them to cool before roughly chopping.
Mix Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with mayonnaise, minced onion, diced celery, lemon juice, salt, and fresh cracked pepper. Adjust seasonings to your liking and cover to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Toast Buns: Brush the opened sides of the buns with melted butter. Grill or toast them on a skillet until they are golden brown and slightly crispy, usually about 2-3 minutes.
Assemble Rolls: Once the buns are toasted, fill each generously with your flavorful shrimp salad, ensuring a hearty scoop in each bun.
Serve: Garnish your rolls with a sprinkle of paprika or Old Bay and add some snipped chives on top for a pop of color. Serve alongside chips and fresh lemon wedges if you like!

Optional: For an extra twist, add a few slices of avocado inside the rolls.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with New England Shrimp Rolls?

Elevate your summer dining experience by complementing these delightful shrimp rolls with flavors that sing in harmony.

Crispy Potato Chips: The crunchy texture of chips contrasts beautifully with the creamy shrimp, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.
Dill Pickles: Their tartness cuts through the richness of the mayo, refreshing your palate and enhancing the coastal vibe.
Coleslaw: A light and tangy slaw brings a crisp bite and zingy flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment for a BBQ touch.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or steamed, sweet corn pairs wonderfully with shrimp rolls, providing a burst of summer sweetness.
Lemonade: A cool, refreshing glass of lemonade balances the savory flavors, offering a delightful citrusy kick with each sip.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and juicy fruits like watermelon and berries cleanse the palate and add a refreshing touch to your meal.
Garlic Bread: For bread lovers, crispy garlic bread complements the rolls nicely while adding an aromatic, buttery touch.
Iced Tea: Sipping on freshly brewed iced tea adds a comforting Southern charm, making your summer meal feel even more special.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies— a delightful contrast to the savory shrimp rolls!
Avocado Salad: A blend of creamy avocado and fresh herbs brings a light, satisfying component that pairs beautifully with the shrimp flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These New England Shrimp Rolls are a fantastic solution for meal prepping, saving you precious time on busy days! You can prepare the shrimp salad up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the shrimp, mayonnaise, onion, celery, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, simply toast your buns (which can also be prepped a few hours ahead) and fill them with the chilled shrimp salad for a quick yet delicious meal. Remember to refrigerate the filling and buns separately until just before serving to maintain the perfect texture and prevent sogginess!

New England Shrimp Rolls Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful shrimp rolls for an even more personal touch!

Healthier Swap: Replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, creamier texture that still packs a flavorful punch.
Add Some Heat: Top your shrimp rolls with pickled jalapeños or mix in a spicy mayo for a fiery kick that elevates the classic dish.
Crunch Factor: Add diced bell peppers or shredded carrots to the shrimp salad for extra crunch and a burst of color.
Low-Carb Delight: Serve the shrimp salad in crisp lettuce cups or on a bed of avocado for a fresh, low-carb alternative that feels indulgent.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or basil into the shrimp mixture for an aromatic twist, capturing that fresh summer flavor in every bite.
Zesty Upgrade: Substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a brighter, tangy flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Sweet Touch: Mix in some diced apples or grapes for a hint of sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory shrimp.
Curry Inspiration: Add a teaspoon of curry powder to the mayo for an exotic flavor twist that transforms the classic into a unique culinary experience.

How to Store and Freeze New England Shrimp Rolls

Refrigerator: Store leftover shrimp salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keeping it tightly sealed preserves its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the shrimp salad for up to 1 month. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and label it with the date.

Reheating: If you’ve frozen the shrimp salad, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using. Avoid reheating it, as shrimp can become rubbery; serve cold or at room temperature.

Bun Storage: Keep toasted buns separate from the shrimp salad to maintain their crunch. Store buns in a cool, dry place for about 3 days and minimize exposure to air.

Expert Tips for New England Shrimp Rolls

Shrimp Care: Ensure shrimp is not overcooked to maintain a tender texture; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and less enjoyable.
Mayo Quality: Use high-quality mayonnaise for better flavor; the dressing is a key element that ties the shrimp salad together.
Chill Time: Allow the shrimp salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving; this enhances the flavors and makes for a refreshing summer dish.
Toast Right: Pay attention while toasting the buns to prevent burning; golden and crispy buns make the rolls even more delicious.
Experiment with Garnishes: Don’t hesitate to try different seasonings like smoked paprika or fresh dill; they can elevate your New England shrimp rolls to a new dimension!

New England Shrimp Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use—fresh or frozen?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen shrimp for this recipe. If you choose frozen, ensure you thaw them under cool running water before cooking. Fresh shrimp offers a slightly sweeter flavor and firmer texture, while frozen shrimp can be a convenient and cost-effective option.

How should I store leftover shrimp salad?
To keep your shrimp salad fresh, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a little stir and check the seasoning before serving.

Can I freeze the shrimp salad?
Yes, you can freeze the shrimp salad for up to 1 month! Just use a freezer-safe container, and don’t forget to label it with the date. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and serve cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.

What if my shrimp turns out rubbery?
If your shrimp end up rubbery, it’s likely due to overcooking. To prevent this, keep a close eye on them while cooking; typically, shrimp should be sautéed or steamed for just 3-4 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. If you want extra assurance, remove them from the heat as soon as they start to turn pink.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
While this recipe doesn’t have specific dietary restrictions, be mindful of common allergens like shellfish and mayonnaise. If you’re cooking for others, you might want to check for any shellfish allergies in your group. To address dietary preferences, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or serve the shrimp salad in lettuce cups for a low-carb alternative.

What can I do if I don’t have hot dog buns?
No worries! If you don’t have hot dog buns, you can use brioche rolls or even whole grain rolls for a healthier twist. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try serving the shrimp salad in lettuce cups or on a bed of sliced avocado for a refreshing alternative.

New England Shrimp Rolls Recipe FAQs