Shrimp Rolls with New England–Style Dressing

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Shrimp Rolls with New England–Style Dressing are a fresh, light, and flavorful twist on a classic coastal favorite. Juicy, succulent shrimp are tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing with a hint of lemon, a touch of mayo, and a dash of mustard, all nestled in a buttery, toasted roll. It’s a delightful combination of texture and taste—crispy, tender, and creamy—that brings a taste of New England’s coastal charm to your table.

I first made these shrimp rolls on a sunny weekend when I wanted a seafood-inspired meal that felt both special and effortless. The New England-style dressing brings together creamy and tangy notes, elevating the sweetness of the shrimp, while fresh celery and chives add a bit of crunch and brightness. The toasted roll provides a buttery, crispy contrast, making each bite a satisfying mix of flavors and textures.

What I love most about Shrimp Rolls with New England–Style Dressing is their versatility. You can add avocado for a buttery twist, toss in some diced cucumber for extra crunch, or sprinkle in capers for a salty kick. Serve them alongside sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, or classic potato chips for a full, well-balanced meal. Whether enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or a casual gathering, these rolls offer a delightful, coastal-inspired experience that feels both refreshing and indulgent.

Perfect for:

  • Casual gatherings
  • Summer parties
  • Picnics
  • Dinner parties
  • Seafood enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Shrimp Rolls with New England–Style Dressing will become your go-to favorite:

  • Refreshing and Flavorful: A perfect blend of shrimp, creamy dressing, and fresh veggies for a balanced taste.
  • Elegant Twist on a Classic: A modern take on the traditional roll with a New England flair.
  • Perfectly Creamy Dressing: The dressing offers a velvety texture and tangy flavor that elevates the rolls.
  • Quick to Assemble: Easy to put together, making it an ideal choice for quick entertaining.
  • Healthy and Light: Packed with fresh ingredients and lean protein from shrimp.
  • Customizable to Your Taste: Add extra herbs, spices, or avocado to suit your flavor preferences.
  • A Crowd-Pleaser: These rolls are attractive, tasty, and sure to impress guests.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: The dressing and shrimp mixture can be made a few hours in advance.
  • Perfect Balance of Texture: A delightful contrast between the creamy dressing, tender shrimp, and crisp veggies.
  • Adaptable to Other Seafood: Try lobster or scallops for an elevated version of the rolls.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5 minutes (if sautéing shrimp)
  • Servings: 6 rolls
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Filling:

  • 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup celery, finely chopped
  • ½ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced

The New England–Style Dressing:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rolls:

  • 6 soft rolls (brioche or hot dog buns)
  • Butter (for toasting rolls)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Fresh Shrimp: Provides a tender, sweet, and succulent seafood flavor.
  • Mayonnaise and Dijon Mustard: Create a creamy and tangy dressing base.
  • Celery and Cucumber: Add a crisp texture and fresh, cool contrast.
  • Old Bay Seasoning: A classic New England twist that enhances the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp Filling:

  1. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
  2. Chop Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine celery, red onion, and cucumber.
  3. Mix with Shrimp: Add sautéed shrimp to the bowl with the vegetables and toss gently.

Make the New England–Style Dressing:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix Dressing with Filling: Pour the dressing over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

Prepare the Rolls:

  1. Butter and Toast Rolls: Lightly butter each roll and toast them on a skillet or in a toaster until golden brown.

Assemble the Shrimp Rolls:

  1. Fill the Rolls: Spoon the shrimp and dressing mixture onto the bottom half of each roll. Place the top half on and gently press.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Shrimp Rolls with New England–Style Dressing:

  • As an Appetizer: Serve individual rolls on platters for an impressive starter.
  • For a Picnic Spread: Include these rolls alongside chips and fresh fruit.
  • At Summer BBQs: Offer as a seafood alternative to traditional BBQ fare.
  • Pair with Coleslaw: Serve with a side of creamy coleslaw for a complete meal.
  • Add a Lemon Wedge: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the rolls for a bright twist.
  • With Potato Salad: Combine with a classic potato salad for a hearty combo.
  • Garnished with Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for extra flavor.
  • Include Pickles: Serve with a side of pickles for a tangy contrast.
  • On a Toasted Roll Option: Toast the rolls for extra texture and warmth.
  • For Holiday Dinners: Serve alongside other seafood platters for a festive touch.

Additional Tips

  • Fresh Shrimp Quality: Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
  • Make Dressing Ahead: Prepare the dressing a few hours in advance for better melding of flavors.
  • Adjust Seasonings: Taste the mixture and adjust salt, pepper, or Old Bay as needed.
  • Store Separately for Freshness: Keep rolls and shrimp filling separate if preparing in advance to prevent sogginess.
  • Toast Rolls Lightly: A quick toasting enhances texture without overpowering the filling.

Recipe Variations

  • Lobster Rolls: Substitute shrimp with lobster meat for an upscale version.
  • Crab Meat Rolls: Use fresh crab meat for a luxurious twist.
  • Spicy New England Dressing: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
  • Avocado Shrimp Rolls: Include mashed avocado for a creamy and nutritious touch.
  • Herb-Infused Dressing: Mix in fresh dill or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free rolls or lettuce wraps instead.
  • Vegan Twist: Use tofu-based shrimp alternatives and vegan mayo.
  • Citrus Dressing Variation: Add lime juice instead of lemon juice for a zesty twist.
  • Nutty Crunch Option: Toss in toasted almonds or walnuts for added texture.
  • Asian-Inspired Roll: Mix in sesame oil and soy sauce for an Asian fusion twist.
  • Mixed Seafood Rolls: Combine shrimp, scallops, and crab meat for a seafood medley.

Special Equipment

  • Skillet: For sautéing shrimp.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the shrimp filling and dressing.
  • Butter Knife: For spreading butter on rolls.
  • Toaster or Griddle: For toasting rolls.
  • Whisk: For mixing the dressing ingredients.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
    Yes, thaw frozen shrimp thoroughly before using.
  2. How long do shrimp rolls last in the fridge?
    Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes, prepare the shrimp mixture and dressing ahead and assemble rolls just before serving.
  4. What can I use instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option?
    Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as a lighter substitute.
  5. How do I prevent soggy rolls?
    Keep rolls and filling separate until just before serving.
  6. Can I make these rolls spicier?
    Yes, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
  7. What are the best rolls to use for shrimp rolls?
    Brioche or hot dog buns work best due to their softness and buttery texture.
  8. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
    Yes, try adding bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for more crunch and color.
  9. Are these rolls suitable for a gluten-free diet?
    Yes, use gluten-free rolls or replace with lettuce wraps.
  10. Can I use canned shrimp in this recipe?
    Yes, though fresh shrimp offers a better texture and flavor.

Conclusion

These Shrimp Rolls with New England–Style Dressing are a delightful, coastal-inspired twist on a classic roll. Succulent shrimp are tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing made with mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh herbs, and a touch of Dijon mustard. Served in buttery, toasted rolls and garnished with crisp lettuce and a sprinkle of chives, these shrimp rolls bring together a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and refreshing flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, enjoying a light lunch, or craving a unique seafood treat, these rolls are a satisfying, elegant choice.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and freshness. The creamy dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the lemon juice and Dijon add a bright, sharp contrast. Add some diced celery or chopped red onion for a bit of crunch and a pop of texture. You can even toss in a few capers for an extra tangy twist.

I’d love to see your Shrimp Rolls with New England–Style Dressing creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your coastal-inspired masterpiece. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share any creative twists or personal touches that made your shrimp rolls uniquely yours!

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