Langostino Lobster Rolls

These Maine-style langostino lobster rolls are made with langostino tails, mayonnaise and warm, toasted buns, plus an optional garlic dipping sauce.

Last year we traveled to Maine.

And the trip lives on in my memory as one of my all-time favorites. Stunning hikes. Acadia National Park. Wild and beautiful oceanside views.

And food.

In particular, lobster.

After eating lobster rolls at Abel's Lobster and The Travelin' Lobster, both near Bar Harbor, I came away inspired to try and re-create the experience at home. (I did the same with beer mussels from another restaurant!)

Lobster roll fans are often particular about their Maine-style lobster rolls being no-frills — just lobster meat tossed in mayo (and possibly a little finely diced celery), and served in a warm split-top bun.

However, two of the lobster rolls I tried in Maine were a little "extra", and I loved it!

Abel's lobster roll was served on warm garlic bread, and the lobster salad was tossed in mayo and chives.

The roll at The Travelin' Lobster included a garlic aioli dipping sauce.

This langostino lobster roll is inspired by those (slightly fancier) lobster rolls, and includes a hot bun toasted with garlic and an optional garlic dipping sauce.

What Are Langostino Lobsters?

Langostino is Spanish for "little lobster."

Also called a “squat lobster” or langoustine, langostino is actually not a true lobster. Instead, it's more closely related to crab.

However, langostino tastes very similar to lobster, and the meat resembles tiny lobster tails. These bite-size portions are really convenient!

The texture is slightly firmer than lobster (more similar to shrimp).

Langostino is generally more affordable than true lobster, making it the perfect option for a budget-friendly meal.

It's also delicious in this langostino risotto.

If you've been able to get your hands on some true lobster, yay! We love lobster tails either broiled or grilled. And don't forget butter sauce!

Where Can I Buy Langostino Tails?

Trader Joe’s and Costco both regularly stock frozen langostino tails.

They’re popular, though, so you might have to check for them on more than one visit.

How to Make Langostino Lobster Rolls

Start with langostino that's been fully thawed and patted dry.

You don't want to end up with a watery lobster salad.

Add the langostino to a mixing bowl.

Mix the chives and half the mayonnaise into the langostino.

Add more mayo as needed, until the meat is all lightly coated.

Will you serve garlic dipping sauce with your lobster rolls? If so, go ahead and mix together the mayonnaise (and maybe some yogurt), garlic, lemon juice, and salt.

Before toasting the buns, spread softened butter on both sides and add a light sprinkle of garlic powder over them.

Over medium heat, toast the buns for a couple of minutes on each side.

I like to use my Lodge 12" carbon steel skillet.

You want both sides to reach golden, warm perfection.

Now you're ready to assemble your rolls! Just scoop some lobster salad onto the toasted buns, and serve immediately with the garlic sauce (if using).

And perhaps while you're eating them, you'll be dreaming of a sea breeze and crashing waves.

I know I will!

Looking for simple sides to serve with your langostino lobster rolls? Try some crispy oven fries or air fried pickles. And a blueberry bourbon smash might be just the drink to complete your meal.