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This East Coast Shrimp Roll recipe transforms fresh shrimp into a classic coastal sandwich that balances creamy textures with bright herbs and zesty flavors. The combination of chilled shrimp salad nestled in warm buttery buns creates that perfect summer meal that feels both indulgent and refreshing.
I first made these rolls for a beach picnic in Cape Cod and they've become our family's summer tradition. Even my seafood-hesitant nephew requests them whenever he visits, which I consider the ultimate culinary victory.
Ingredients
- Fresh shrimp: Preferably wild-caught for the sweetest flavor and firmest texture
- Sea salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp while helping them retain moisture
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish and balances the richness
- Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base that holds everything together
- Celery: Adds essential crunch and freshness to contrast with the tender shrimp
- Fresh herbs: Including dill, parsley, and chives provide layers of flavor that dried herbs simply cannot match
- Dijon mustard: Offers subtle tang and depth without overpowering the delicate shrimp
- Capers: Deliver little bursts of briny flavor that complement seafood perfectly
- Hot dog buns: With flat sides work best for toasting and holding the filling
- Butter: For toasting the buns, creates that irresistible golden exterior
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Poaching Liquid:
- Start with a large pot of water and add sea salt and fresh lemon juice. This seasons the shrimp from the inside out as they cook and the acid in the lemon helps maintain their texture. Bring this to a rolling boil before adding your shrimp.
- Mix the Dressing:
- While waiting for the water to boil, combine all dressing ingredients in a bowl. The magic happens when these ingredients have time to meld together, so making this first allows flavors to develop while you finish the other steps.
- Cook the Shrimp Perfectly:
- Add cleaned shrimp to the boiling water for exactly 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and just curl. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This quick cooking and cooling ensures tender, not rubbery shrimp.
- Toast the Buns:
- Butter both the inside and tops of your hot dog buns. Place under the broiler for just 1 to 2 minutes, watching constantly until they reach a golden brown color. The contrast between warm toasty bun and cool shrimp filling is essential to this dish.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Chop the cooled shrimp into bite-sized pieces and fold them gently into the mayonnaise mixture. Spoon generously into each toasted bun. The filling should be abundant enough to be visible at the top of each roll.
- Finish with Flourish:
- Add a final squeeze of fresh lemon juice, sprinkle of sea salt, crack of black pepper, and few fresh parsley leaves right before serving. These final touches wake up all the flavors and add visual appeal.
The capers might seem like a small addition but they're my secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother always added them to her seafood dishes and now whenever I taste that distinctive briny pop I'm transported back to summers on the Eastern seaboard watching her prepare feasts from the day's catch.
Make-Ahead Options
The shrimp salad mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This actually improves the flavor as the ingredients have time to meld together. Just remember to toast the buns fresh right before serving for that perfect contrast of warm bread and cool filling.
Perfect Pairings
These shrimp rolls shine alongside simple sides that complement without competing. Try serving with kettle chips, a light vinegar-based coleslaw, or a simple cucumber salad. For beverages, nothing beats a cold glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer with citrus notes. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a splash of lemon or iced tea provides the perfect refreshment.
Variations Worth Trying
While this classic version is hard to beat, there are several delicious variations. You can add diced avocado for creaminess, a pinch of Old Bay seasoning for a Maryland twist, or even fold in some cooked corn kernels for sweetness and texture. For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which adds a pleasant tanginess while reducing calories.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I cook the shrimp for the rolls?
Boil shrimp with sea salt and lemon juice for 2-3 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and maintain tenderness.
- → What is the ideal dressing for shrimp rolls?
The dressing combines mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, garlic, parsley, chives, dill, capers, and a mix of spices for a flavorful, creamy taste.
- → What type of bread works best for shrimp rolls?
Use soft, buttery hot dog buns. Toast them lightly for a crisp texture that complements the shrimp filling.
- → Can I prepare the shrimp rolls ahead of time?
Prepare the shrimp filling a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Toast the buns and assemble right before serving to keep them fresh.
- → What are good additions to the shrimp filling?
You can add diced jalapeños for heat, a splash of hot sauce, or extra lemon zest for a tangy kick.