Langostino Lobster Roll Brioche

If you crave the flavors of a classic lobster roll but are looking for something quicker and easier, this langostino roll delivers all the buttery, lemony seafood goodness with minimal fuss. Sweet langostino tails get tossed in a zesty mayo dressing with fresh herbs and nestled into toasted brioche buns for a fast and elegant meal that feels like a seaside treat any time of year.

I whipped this up for friends during a summer picnic when fresh lobster seemed out of reach and the whole table raved. Now I keep frozen langostino in my freezer for whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients

• Langostino tails: look for frozen or fresh langostino that is plump and pink and has a clean scent
• Mayonnaise: adds creaminess and binds the filling use a high quality brand for the best flavor
• Celery: adds crunch and freshness diced very finely so it blends in smoothly
• Chives: offer a mild onion flavor and bright color fresh is best for this recipe
• Lemon juice: brings tang and brightness always use freshly squeezed
• Lemon zest: packs intense citrus aroma grate just the skin avoiding bitterness
• Kosher salt: balances the dressing and enhances flavors use a flaky kosher type if you can
• Black pepper: gives gentle heat freshly ground is worth it here for flavor
• Brioche split top hot dog buns: bring rich soft texture look for ones labeled New England style
• Unsalted butter: lets you control the salt as you toast the buns until golden

Instructions

Drain and Prep Langostino:

Place thawed langostino on a clean towel and pat thoroughly dry to prevent watery filling and help dressing cling to the seafood

Mix the Dressing:

In a large mixing bowl combine mayonnaise finely diced celery chopped chives lemon juice lemon zest salt and black pepper stir until completely smooth and cohesive

Add Langostino to Dressing:

Gently fold langostino into the bowl making sure every piece is evenly coated try not to break up the meat too much then chill until ready to serve to enhance the flavors

Toast the Buns:

Heat a nonstick skillet on medium and add half the butter lay the split sides of the buns down in the pan pressing gently until golden and crisp about two minutes per batch add more butter as needed

Fill and Garnish:

Spoon a generous portion of langostino mixture into each toasted bun arrange for both taste and presentation then top with extra chives and a pinch of lemon zest and serve at once

My favorite part has always been the lemon zest It brightens the whole dish and reminds me of summers spent near the shore with my family squeezing lemons over shellfish while laughing around the picnic table

Storage Tips

Store leftover langostino salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days For best texture always toast fresh buns before serving Filling does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise but individual buns can be frozen and reheated

Ingredient Substitutions

If langostino is not available you can substitute cooked bay shrimp or even flaked crabmeat Fresh tarragon instead of chives is delicious Add a celery seed or a small dash of hot sauce for a twist on the dressing

Serving Suggestions

Serve with kettle chips crisp lettuce or a simple tomato salad for a bright meal Also pairs beautifully with icy lemonade or white wine For a heartier option try alongside a cup of corn chowder

Cultural and Historical Context

Langostinos are popular in Latin American and Mediterranean seafood dishes While they resemble lobster their small size means they are more affordable and readily available making this recipe a great modern twist on the classic New England summer staple

Seasonal Adaptations

Try swapping in fresh herbs like dill or parsley in spring or early summer In autumn add a touch of smoked paprika for warmth Winter months pair well with a bowl of creamy soup to make it a cozy meal

Success Stories

Friends are always wowed when I serve these at gatherings They look fancy but come together in no time My neighbor who avoids lobster due to allergies found these the perfect treat

Freezer Meal Conversion

While the mayonnaise based filling is best fresh you can freeze langostino tails separately then thaw and combine with dressing right before serving Frozen buns also toast beautifully

This elegant roll lets you enjoy seaside flavor any time. It’s simple enough for weekdays but special enough to serve guests.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is langostino and how does it differ from lobster?

Langostino is a small, sweet shellfish with a texture similar to lobster but smaller in size. Its flavor is delicate and light, making it ideal for seafood rolls.

→ How can I prevent the filling from being watery?

Be sure to thoroughly drain and pat dry the langostino before mixing. This helps the filling stay creamy and not soggy.

→ Can I use a different bread instead of brioche buns?

Yes, while brioche adds richness, split-top hot dog buns or soft white rolls work as a substitute. Toast for best texture.

→ What are the best garnishes for serving?

Extra minced chives and a sprinkle of lemon zest add color and enhance the fresh, citrusy flavors of the filling.

→ Should the langostino mixture be chilled before serving?

Chilling allows the flavors to meld for a brighter, more refreshing taste, but it can also be served immediately if preferred.