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Tarragon Lobster Roll

This tarragon lobster roll is a sophisticated take on a coastal classic, offering a perfect balance of sweet seafood and aromatic herbs. The delicate lobster meat is lightly dressed in a zesty lemon and tarragon mayonnaise, which adds a refreshing lift to the rich, buttery topping. Fresh celery provides a subtle crunch, creating a refined texture that makes this dish a standout choice for an indulgent weekend lunch or a seasonal gathering.

As a high-protein meal, this recipe is as satisfying as it is delicious. By using fresh whole lobsters and lightly toasting soft, buttered buns, you can recreate an authentic seaside experience in your own kitchen. Serve these rolls immediately while the buns are still warm for the ultimate contrast between the chilled, savoury filling and the golden, crisp exterior.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Tarragon Lobster Roll

  • Kosher salt

  • 3 live Maine lobsters, 575g each

  • 45ml mayonnaise, plus more if desired

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

  • 60ml finely diced celery

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon

  • Dash cayenne pepper, plus more to taste

  • 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

  • 4 split-top, white hot dog buns

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season generously with salt. Add lobsters head first to water and cook, covered, until shells are bright red and an antennae or leg pulls off easily, 8 to 10 minutes. Crack one open where the tail meets the body of the lobster. The flesh should be firm, white, and opaque. If it is still translucent, then the lobster needs more time to finish cooking. Drain lobsters head down in a colander to release excess liquid.

When cool enough to handle, crack lobster shells and remove meat from tails, claws, and knuckles. Tear the meat by hand into 1-inch pieces and place in a large bowl.

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon, celery, tarragon, cayenne, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoons salt. Pour over lobster meat and gently stir until lobster is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more mayonnaise if desired. Chill lobster mixture for 15 to 30 minutes.

Spread cut sides of buns with butter. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and toast buns, buttered side down, until golden brown, about 2 minutes per bun. Fill each bun with lobster mixture and sprinkle with an extra dash cayenne, if desired. Serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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