Maine Lobster Recipe

Prepare lobster

If your lobster is not pre-cooked, boil or steam live lobster (1–1¼ lb per 1 cup meat yield approximately). Cool slightly, extract meat from tail, claws and knuckles, remove cartilage and shells, and roughly chop into 1-inch pieces. Pat meat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

In a medium bowl combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, hot sauce (if using), finely diced celery, chopped chives, and chopped tarragon or parsley. Stir until smooth and season with 3/4 teaspoon sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; taste and adjust seasoning.

Gently fold the chopped lobster into the dressing until the meat is evenly coated. Do not overmix; you want distinct chunks. Cover and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to let flavors meld, or use immediately if preferred chilled slightly. Reserve remaining salt and pepper for finishing.

Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. If using, brush the pan lightly with 1 tsp olive oil to prevent sticking.

Split the brioche buns and brush the cut sides generously with melted or softened butter (about 1/2 tbs per cut side).

Place buns, buttered side down, on the hot skillet and toast until golden brown and crisp, 1–2 minutes. Press gently with a spatula for even contact. Remove and keep warm. Brush exterior of top bun lightly with remaining butter if desired.

On the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun, place 1–2 leaves of romaine or bibb lettuce to create a moisture barrier and add crunch.

Divide the lobster salad evenly between the two prepared buns (approximately 1 cup lobster salad per sandwich). Pile the lobster salad on top of the lettuce, keeping the chunks intact for texture and presentation.

Season the top of the lobster lightly with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and sprinkle chopped chives or microgreens over the lobster.

Place the top bun over the lobster, serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing, and a light sprinkle of coarse sea salt if desired.