Vegan Maine Lobster Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Vegan Maine Lobster Rolls are perfect for those seeking a compassionate and delicious alternative to the traditional lobster roll. The hearts of palm provide a tender, flaky texture that closely mimics lobster meat, while the creamy dressing and fresh herbs enhance the flavor profile. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, this dish is ideal for picnics, gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Hearts of palm

• Vegan mayonnaise

• Celery

• Red onion

• Fresh dill

• Lemon juice

• Old Bay seasoning

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Hot dog buns or sandwich rolls

• Vegan butter

• Paprika (optional, for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare the Hearts of Palm: Drain and rinse the hearts of palm. Chop them into bite-sized pieces, aiming for a flaky texture that resembles lobster meat.

2. Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise, finely diced celery, red onion, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Combine: Gently fold the chopped hearts of palm into the dressing mixture, ensuring all pieces are well coated.

4. Chill: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Prepare the Buns: Brush the inside of each bun with vegan butter. Toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown.

6. Assemble: Spoon the chilled hearts of palm mixture into each toasted bun.

7. Serve: Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling, totaling 45 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the dressing for extra heat.

• Herb Substitutions: Experiment with fresh parsley or chives in place of dill for a different flavor profile.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Additional Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and color.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the filling separate from the buns to prevent sogginess. Reassemble the rolls just before serving. Reheating is not recommended, as the filling is best enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Can I use jackfruit instead of hearts of palm?

Yes, jackfruit can be used as an alternative, though it has a different texture and flavor. Ensure it’s well-drained and shredded before mixing with the dressing.

Is there a substitute for Old Bay seasoning?

If Old Bay is unavailable, a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne can mimic its flavor.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely. Preparing the filling a day in advance allows the flavors to develop further. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the rolls.

What type of buns work best?

Traditional New England-style split-top buns are ideal, but any soft hot dog or sandwich rolls will suffice.

How can I make this recipe oil-free?

Use an oil-free vegan mayonnaise and skip the vegan butter when toasting the buns. Toast the buns in a dry skillet or oven instead.

Can I add seaweed for a more “seafood” flavor?

Yes, finely chopped nori or dulse flakes can enhance the ocean-like flavor of the filling.

Is this recipe suitable for a picnic?

Definitely. Keep the filling chilled in a cooler and assemble the rolls on-site to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze the filling?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the hearts of palm may change upon thawing.

What sides pair well with these rolls?

Classic sides include coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use homemade vegan mayonnaise?

Yes, homemade vegan mayonnaise works well and allows you to control the flavor and ingredients.

Conclusion

Vegan Maine Lobster Rolls are a delightful and compassionate take on a beloved classic. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe brings the taste of the coast to your table without compromising on ethics or flavor. Whether for a summer gathering or a cozy meal at home, these rolls are sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Vegan Maine Lobster Rolls

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A plant-based twist on the classic New England favorite, using hearts of palm as a lobster substitute in a creamy dressing, served in toasted buns for a satisfying, vegan-friendly meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 rolls
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1 can hearts of palm, drained and chopped

1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise

1/2 cup celery, finely diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

4 hot dog buns or sandwich rolls

2 tablespoons vegan butter

1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Drain and rinse the hearts of palm. Chop them into bite-sized pieces to mimic the texture of lobster.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise, finely diced celery, red onion, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Gently fold the chopped hearts of palm into the dressing mixture until all pieces are coated.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Brush the inside of each bun with vegan butter. Toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
6. Once toasted, spoon the chilled hearts of palm mixture into each bun.
7. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

• For a spicy kick, add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the dressing.
• Use gluten-free buns for a gluten-free version.
• Try adding seaweed (nori or dulse flakes) for a more ‘seafood’ flavor.
• Homemade vegan mayo can be used to control ingredients and flavor.
• Serve with classic sides like coleslaw, chips, or a green salad.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg