As I sank my teeth into a creamy shrimp roll, I was instantly transported to the sun-soaked shores of New England, where the ocean’s whispers blend with laughter. These Classic East Coast Shrimp Rolls are not just a meal; they’re a delightful culinary hug that brings the flavors of the coast right to your kitchen. This easy recipe combines the succulent seafood with a zesty herb mayo, nestled in a buttery bun, making it perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed family meals. Whether you’re channeling your inner seaside chef or simply in need of a quick dinner fix, these shrimp rolls promise to evoke memories of summer days and warm breezes. Ready to dive into a taste of the Atlantic? Let’s get cooking!
Why Are These Shrimp Rolls Amazing?
Freshness at Its Finest: Using succulent shrimp and bright herbs, these rolls capture the essence of the Atlantic.
Simplicity in Preparation: With minimal steps, you’ll serve up a gourmet dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy herb mayo pairs perfectly with the shrimp, making these rolls a hit for family dinners or gatherings.
Versatile Options: Swap out shrimp for crab or lobster for a luxurious twist, or use gluten-free buns to cater to dietary needs.
Quick Fix: Perfect for busy weeknights, these shrimp rolls are ready in no time, ensuring you don’t resort to takeout. Whether accompanied by a side of coleslaw or classic potato chips, they’re bound to impress!
Shrimp Rolls Ingredients
For the Shrimp Mixture
• Shrimp – Fresh or flash-frozen shrimp provide the main protein; Argentinian Red Shrimp is the best for flavor.
• Sea Salt – Enhances shrimp flavor during boiling; a must for perfectly seasoned seafood.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a refreshing acidity; use fresh juice for a bright taste.
For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – The base for your creamy herb dressing; low-fat or vegan mayo can be used for variations.
• Celery – Adds crunch and freshness; finely chopped cucumber is a great substitute if desired.
• Green Onions – Introduces a mild onion flavor; feel free to replace with shallots if you prefer.
• Dill, Chives, Parsley – Fresh herbs that enhance flavor; adjust based on your preferences.
• Capers – Brings a briny touch; consider omitting for a milder flavor profile.
• Dijon Mustard – Offers tanginess; yellow mustard is a suitable alternative.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Provides acidity; apple cider vinegar is another great choice.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic deepens the flavor; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Paprika – Adds mild smokiness; switch to smoked paprika for extra depth.
• Garlic Salt, Onion Powder – Enhance overall seasoning; adjust quantities to your taste.
• Fresh Cracked Pepper – Adds a lovely kick; include or exclude based on your preference.
For the Buns
• Hot Dog Buns – Holds the shrimp mixture; ensure they are fresh for the best experience.
• Butter – Adds richness to the buns; try garlic butter for an extra flavor boost.
This combination of Shrimp Rolls ingredients guarantees a delightful treat that beckons the flavors of summer right into your home kitchen. Enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic East Coast Shrimp Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise with finely chopped celery, green onions, dill, chives, and parsley. Stir in capers, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, garlic salt, onion powder, sea salt, and cracked pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a vibrant, creamy dressing that will elevate your shrimp rolls.
Step 2: Boil the Shrimp
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of sea salt and a squeeze of lemon juice. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Be sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery, ensuring they stay tender and juicy for your classic shrimp rolls.
Step 3: Ice Bath for Shrimp
Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp into a bowl filled with ice water to halt the cooking process. Let them chill for about 3–5 minutes until completely cooled. Drain the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. Once cooled, chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces and set aside, ready to be folded into your creamy dressing.
Step 4: Prep the Buns
Preheat your broiler to high while you prepare the buns. Spread a thin layer of butter inside both sides of the hot dog buns, and if you like, use garlic butter for an extra flavor boost. Place the buttered buns under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely until they are golden brown and toasty, which creates a delightful contrast with the creamy shrimp mixture.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Dressing
Gently fold the chopped shrimp into the prepared dressing until the shrimp are well coated with the creamy herb mixture. Take care not to overmix, as you want to maintain the texture of the shrimp. Once combined, it’s time to stuff the flavorful shrimp mixture into your warm, buttery buns for those irresistible classic shrimp rolls.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
To finish, squeeze a little extra lemon juice over the stuffed shrimp rolls and sprinkle with additional sea salt, cracked pepper, and any remaining herbs you desire for an added burst of flavor. Serve immediately for the best experience, and enjoy these delectable East Coast shrimp rolls that’ll transport you to a sandy beach with every bite!
What to Serve with East Coast Shrimp Rolls?
Enhance your culinary experience with delightful sides that complement the flavors of your shrimp rolls.
- Crispy Coleslaw: This crunchy slaw adds a refreshing, tangy contrast to the creamy shrimp filling, balancing the richness beautifully.
- Homemade Potato Chips: Crispy and salty, these chips provide the perfect textural foil to the soft, buttery buns. Their crunch will elevate each bite.
- Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh greens and a zesty vinaigrette introduces vibrancy and balance, creating a well-rounded meal. Add tomatoes and cucumbers for a refreshing touch.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and slight crispiness of sweet potato fries create a delicious counterpoint to the savory shrimp rolls.
- Garlic Bread: Buttery and toasty, garlic bread enhances the meal’s indulgence while adding a beautiful aroma that pairs perfectly with seafood.
- Fresh Lemonade: This refreshing drink mimics the bright flavors of the shrimp rolls and cleanses the palate with each sip, making it a delightful pairing.
- Key Lime Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with this tart and creamy dessert that captures the essence of summer, just like the shrimp rolls.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the seafood, enhancing the fresh flavors of your dinner.
Each of these pairing suggestions will elevate your shrimp rolls into a delightful full meal, making your dining experience truly special!
Expert Tips for Shrimp Rolls
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Choose Quality Shrimp: Fresh or flash-frozen shrimp is best. Opt for Argentinian Red Shrimp for flavor that shines in your shrimp rolls.
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Boil just until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so watch closely as they cook.
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Keep Ingredients Fresh: Use fresh herbs and ingredients, especially in the mayo dressing, to achieve that bright, coastal flavor in your shrimp rolls.
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Butter Buns Carefully: Broil the buttered buns for just 1-2 minutes; they can burn quickly. Golden brown is your goal for extra richness.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing a day in advance. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves you time on busy days.
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover shrimp rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing and buns separate to maintain freshness until ready to eat.
Freezer: For optimal taste, freeze the shrimp mixture (without the buns) in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the shrimp mixture in a microwave or skillet over low heat, just until warmed through. Avoid overcooking, as this can affect the texture of the shrimp.
Assembly Tip: Stuff the buns just before serving to keep them soft and pillowy, ensuring the best experience with your delicious shrimp rolls!
Make Ahead Options
These Classic East Coast Shrimp Rolls are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the shrimp mixture up to 2 days in advance—simply combine the cooked and chopped shrimp with the creamy dressing and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh and delicious. Just before serving, stuff the mixture into buttered, toasted buns for the best texture. Be sure to broil the buns right before assembling to prevent them from becoming soggy. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy a scrumptious, seafood delight that’s just as delightful as when made fresh!
Shrimp Rolls Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these variations and make this dish uniquely yours!
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Crab Replace: Substitute shrimp with crab meat for a luxurious twist on the classic roll.
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Lobster Twist: Swap in tender lobster for an indulgent seafood delight that’ll elevate any occasion.
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Gluten-Free Buns: Use gluten-free hot dog buns for the same delicious experience with dietary preferences in mind.
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Whole Wheat Option: Choose whole wheat buns for a slightly nuttier flavor and added fiber.
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Vegan Slant: Try a vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative that doesn’t compromise on creaminess.
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Herb Flexibility: Adjust the fresh herbs according to your taste; cilantro or basil can add a refreshing twist.
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Add Spice: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or some sliced jalapeños for a delightful kick.
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Fresh Avocado: Slice up some creamy avocado to add a rich layer of flavor and texture to your shrimp rolls.
If you want to explore more seafood delights, check out my delicious Garlic Shrimp Pasta or my zesty Chipotle Lime Shrimp! Enjoy customizing these shrimp rolls to match your cravings.
East Coast Shrimp Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for shrimp rolls?
Absolutely! For maximum flavor, I recommend using fresh or flash-frozen Argentinian Red Shrimp. They have a sweet, buttery taste that enhances the shrimp rolls beautifully. If that’s not an option, any size shrimp will work as long as they’re fresh or properly frozen.
How should I store leftover shrimp rolls?
You can store any leftover shrimp rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the shrimp mixture separate from the buns until you’re ready to enjoy them again. This keeps the bread from getting soggy and maintains the lovely texture of your shrimp rolls!
Can I freeze the shrimp mixture?
Very much! To freeze, place the shrimp mixture in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. It will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a microwave or skillet—just until warmed through to maintain that delightful texture!
What if my shrimp are overcooked?
If your shrimp turns out a bit rubbery, don’t worry too much! You can chop them finely and mix them into the dressing to hide some of the texture. Alternatively, simply make sure to watch the cooking time closely next round—shrimp only need about 2-3 minutes in boiling water until they turn pink and opaque.
Are there any dietary considerations for shrimp rolls?
Yes! For those with seafood allergies, consider substituting the shrimp with cooked chicken or a plant-based protein option. Also, if you’re serving this to someone with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps can make for a delicious alternative. Always encourage your guests to check ingredient labels when using store-bought products!
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Definitely! I often make the dressing a day ahead of time, which actually allows all those invigorating flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. This makes your shrimp rolls come together even quicker on busy weeknights!
Savory Shrimp Rolls That Bring the Taste of Summer Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise with finely chopped celery, green onions, dill, chives, and parsley. Stir in capers, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, garlic salt, onion powder, sea salt, and cracked pepper. Mix well to create a creamy dressing.
- Fill a large pot with water, add sea salt and lemon juice, and bring to a boil. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
- Transfer cooked shrimp to an ice bath for 3–5 minutes to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Preheat the broiler and butter the inside of the hot dog buns. Broil for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
- Fold chopped shrimp into the dressing until coated. Stuff the shrimp mixture into the warm buns.
- Garnish with extra lemon juice, sea salt, cracked pepper, and herbs. Serve immediately.
