New England’s coastal waters are known for amazing seafood sandwiches. The shrimp roll is a tasty choice, unlike the lobster roll. It’s made with fresh shrimp and simple ingredients.

Seafood fans love the Shrimp Roll for its great taste and lower price. It’s lighter than lobster rolls but still full of flavor. It’s a favorite for those wanting a real coastal meal. The seafood sandwich is a mix of fresh stuff and local cooking ways.

Shrimp rolls are more than food; they show New England’s coastal culture. Every bite shares a story of the sea, with fresh seafood, special seasonings, and a soft roll. This combo has been loved for generations.

In both small towns and big cities, the shrimp roll has found its place. Coastal eateries and home cooks love making and eating it. It’s a simple yet tasty seafood treat.

The Delight of a Shrimp Roll

Discover the magic of a classic Maritime Cuisine specialty. Shrimp rolls are a beloved tradition in New England’s seafood scene. They offer a simple yet irresistible taste of fresh ocean ingredients.

The magic of a shrimp roll is in its simplicity. Each bite tells a story of coastal traditions. It shows how carefully chosen ingredients can turn a basic sandwich into a gourmet delight.

What Is a Shrimp Roll?

A shrimp roll is more than a sandwich. It’s a chilled seafood rolls delicacy. It combines succulent shrimp with creamy dressing. This dish focuses on the natural sweetness of fresh shrimp.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Shrimp Roll

Fresh, high-quality shrimp
Creamy Mayonnaise Seafood Salad dressing
Soft, buttery roll
Crisp celery for added texture
Subtle seasonings

The secret to a great shrimp roll is balance. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious flavor. This celebrates maritime culinary traditions.

Regional Variations to Explore

Different coastal regions have their own twist on this classic dish. Some like a lighter dressing, while others add special herbs. These variations reflect local tastes and traditions.

From Maine to Massachusetts, each area adds its own flair to the shrimp roll. This shows that it’s more than a simple sandwich. It’s a culinary art form that continues to evolve and delight seafood lovers.

How to Make Your Own Shrimp Roll

Making your own shrimp roll at home turns summer picnic food into a fun adventure. These seafood treats are simple to make, bringing top-notch taste to your kitchen.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Begin by picking fresh, quality shrimp for your dish. Here’s how to do it:

Purchase 1 pound of medium-sized shrimp
Peel and devein the shrimp carefully
Boil shrimp in salted water for 2-3 minutes until pink
Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking
Drain and pat dry with paper towels

Essential Tips for Flavor Enhancements

Boost your shrimp rolls with these expert tips:

Chop shrimp into bite-sized pieces
Mix with high-quality mayonnaise
Add finely diced celery for crunch
Sprinkle fresh dill or chives
Squeeze fresh lemon juice for brightness

Put your shrimp rolls on lightly toasted, buttered rolls for the best summer picnic food. The secret is using fresh ingredients and keeping it simple.

The Best Places to Find Shrimp Rolls in New England

New England’s coastline is full of amazing places to eat. You can find everything from cozy Coastal Delis to charming Seaside Eateries. These spots offer incredible shrimp rolls that show off the local flavors.

Recipe card

This recipe offers a refreshing and easy-to-make coastal treat perfect for summer lunches or appetizers. Enjoy your delicious Fresh New England Shrimp Roll!

Equipment

Large Pot: For boiling the shrimp.
Colander: To drain the shrimp.
Ice Bath Bowl: A bowl with ice water for cooling the shrimp quickly.
Mixing Bowl: For tossing shrimp with the dressing.
Cutting Board & Knife: For dicing celery, red onion, and herbs.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: To ensure accurate amounts for ingredients and seasoning.
Skillet: To toast the buttered buns until golden.
Refrigerator: To chill the shrimp salad and enhance the flavors.

Ingredients

Shrimp: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Butter: 2 tbsp softened (for toasting the buns)
Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup
Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp
Celery: 1 stalk, finely diced
Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced (optional)
Old Bay Seasoning: 1/2 tsp
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Herbs: Fresh dill or chives for garnish
Buns: 4 New England-style split-top hot dog buns (or your favorite roll)
Lettuce Leaves: Optional, for lining the buns

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque (approximately 2–3 minutes).
- Drain the shrimp using a colander and immediately transfer them into a bowl of ice water to halt further cooking. Once cooled, pat dry and optionally chop into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Dressing:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, diced celery, optional red onion, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until fully blended.
Combine:
- Gently toss the cooled shrimp in the dressing, ensuring an even coat. For best flavor, refrigerate the shrimp salad for about 30 minutes.
Toast the Buns:
- Lightly butter the inside of each bun with the softened butter. Toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp.
Assemble the Rolls:
- If desired, line each toasted bun with a lettuce leaf. Spoon a generous amount of shrimp salad into each bun. Garnish with fresh dill or chives.
Serve:
- Enjoy immediately, optionally with a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra citrus burst.

Must-Visit Seafood Shacks

When you explore the New England coast, you’ll find hidden treasures. These seafood shacks offer more than just delicious food:

The Clam Box in Ipswich, Massachusetts – Known for crispy, perfectly prepared seafood
Red’s Eats in Wiscasset, Maine – Famous for overflowing shrimp rolls
Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery, Maine – A legendary spot with decades of seafood reputation

Popular Restaurants with Unique Twists

Some Coastal Delis and Seaside Eateries have made the shrimp roll their own. They mix traditional recipes with new ideas:

Neptune Oyster in Boston – Offers a luxurious hot buttered shrimp roll
Summer Shack in Cambridge – Features multiple shrimp roll variations
Row 34 in Portsmouth – Combines traditional recipes with modern cooking techniques

Each place adds to New England’s rich seafood culture. Whether you like it simple or fancy, you’ll find a shrimp roll that will stay with you.

Pairing Suggestions for Your Shrimp Roll

Enhancing your seafood sandwiches is more than just a great shrimp roll. Maritime cuisine offers many sides and drinks that make your meal special. The right choices can bring out the best in your fresh shrimp roll.

Ideal Sides to Complement Your Roll

Classic New England sides are perfect with shrimp rolls. Try crispy Cape Cod potato chips for a nice crunch. A light summer salad with fresh greens and a zesty vinaigrette is also great.

For a traditional touch, tangy coleslaw is a great choice. It balances the richness of the shrimp, creating a perfect taste.

Beverage Selections to Enhance Flavors

Choosing the right drink can make your seafood sandwiches even better. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a local Massachusetts Pinot Grigio is perfect. Non-alcoholic options like cold, fresh-squeezed lemonade or craft root beer are also great.

Try different pairings to find your favorite. Whether at a seaside picnic or at home, the right sides and drinks can make your meal unforgettable.

FAQ

What exactly is a New England Shrimp Roll?

A New England Shrimp Roll is a seafood sandwich. It has tender, chilled shrimp mixed with creamy mayonnaise. It’s served in a soft, lightly toasted roll. This sandwich is a tasty, affordable choice compared to lobster rolls.

How is a shrimp roll different from a lobster roll?

Shrimp rolls use smaller, more affordable shrimp than lobster rolls. Both are chilled seafood sandwiches in a soft roll. But shrimp rolls are more budget-friendly and just as delicious.

What are the key ingredients in a traditional shrimp roll?

The main ingredients are fresh cooked shrimp, mayonnaise, and diced celery. You’ll also need a bit of seasoning and a soft, toasted roll. Some people add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

Can I make shrimp rolls at home?

Yes, you can make shrimp rolls at home. Just cook and chill the shrimp, mix with mayonnaise, and serve in a toasted roll. It’s a simple, tasty dish perfect for summer.

What are the best sides to serve with a shrimp roll?

Great sides include Cape Cod potato chips and crispy coleslaw. You can also try a light summer salad or pickles. Pair it with a crisp white wine, local beer, or iced tea for a complete coastal meal.

Are there regional variations of shrimp rolls?

Yes, there are regional shrimp roll variations in New England. Each area might add unique spices or use different dressings. These variations reflect the local coastal cuisine.

What type of shrimp works best for a shrimp roll?

Choose fresh, medium-sized Gulf or Maine shrimp. They should be sweet and tender. Locally sourced shrimp are best for that authentic seafood salad texture.

How long can I store a prepared shrimp roll?

For safety, eat shrimp rolls within 1-2 days in the fridge. Always keep the salad chilled. Don’t leave it at room temperature for too long. shrimp rollSeafood fans love the Shrimp Roll for its great taste and lower price. It's lighter than lobster rolls but still full of flavor. It's a favorite for those wanting a real coastal meal. The seafood sandwich is a mix of fresh stuff and local cooking ways. Print Recipe Pin Recipe EquipmentLarge Pot: For boiling the shrimp.Colander: To drain the shrimp.Ice Bath Bowl: A bowl with ice water for cooling the shrimp quickly.Mixing Bowl: For tossing shrimp with the dressing.Cutting Board & Knife: For dicing celery, red onion, and herbs.Measuring Cups & Spoons: To ensure accurate amounts for ingredients and seasoning.Skillet: To toast the buttered buns until golden.Refrigerator: To chill the shrimp salad and enhance the flavors.Ingredients Shrimp: 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveinedButter: 2 tbsp softened for toasting the bunsMayonnaise: 1/4 cupLemon Juice: 1 tbspCelery: 1 stalk finely dicedRed Onion: 1/4 cup finely diced (optional)Old Bay Seasoning: 1/2 tspSalt and Pepper: To tasteHerbs: Fresh dill or chives for garnishBuns: 4 New England-style split-top hot dog buns or your favorite rollLettuce Leaves: Optional for lining the bunsInstructions Prepare the Shrimp:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque (approximately 2–3 minutes).Drain the shrimp using a colander and immediately transfer them into a bowl of ice water to halt further cooking. Once cooled, pat dry and optionally chop into bite-sized pieces.Make the Dressing:In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, diced celery, optional red onion, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until fully blended.Combine:Gently toss the cooled shrimp in the dressing, ensuring an even coat. For best flavor, refrigerate the shrimp salad for about 30 minutes.Toast the Buns:Lightly butter the inside of each bun with the softened butter. Toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp.Assemble the Rolls:If desired, line each toasted bun with a lettuce leaf. Spoon a generous amount of shrimp salad into each bun. Garnish with fresh dill or chives.Serve:Enjoy immediately, optionally with a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra citrus burst.Must-Visit Seafood Shacks

Pin4

Vote

Fresh New England Shrimp Roll