What to Serve with Lobster Rolls: 35+ Easy Side Dishes
Picture this: you’re holding a perfectly toasted bun filled with chunks of sweet lobster meat.
Sounds amazing, right? But what to serve with lobster rolls to make your meal even better?
I’ve tried countless combinations and found some incredible sides that’ll take your lobster roll experience to the next level.
From crispy fries to refreshing salads, I’m excited to share my favorite pairings that’ll make your meal unforgettable.
What Are Lobster Rolls?
These tasty sandwiches started in New England as a simple street food. You’ll find two main styles – warm with butter (Connecticut style) or cold with mayo (Maine style). I love both! Adding the right sides makes these rolls even more special and helps create a complete meal you’ll love.
What to Serve with Lobster Rolls?
I’ve grouped my favorite sides into easy categories so you can mix and match. You’ll find everything from light salads to crispy potatoes, and even some unique options that might surprise you. Let’s dive into these mouth-watering combinations!
Fresh and Crunchy Salads
Nothing beats fresh salads with seafood! These crisp and refreshing options will perfectly balance your rich lobster roll. Here are my top picks:
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy cabbage mixed with creamy dressing is a match made in heaven. I love adding a touch of apple cider vinegar to mine for extra tang. It’s like a classic diner side dish but way better!
- Cucumber Dill Salad: Fresh cucumbers tossed with tangy dill and a light vinaigrette create the perfect summer side. I make this all the time – it’s so refreshing and takes just minutes to throw together!
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons make this classic a winner. You’ll love how the garlic and parmesan flavors complement your lobster roll.
- Tomato and Cucumber Salad: Garden-fresh tomatoes and crisp cucumbers dressed in olive oil and herbs bring Mediterranean vibes to your plate. The colors alone make your meal look Instagram-worthy!
- Watermelon Salad with Feta: Sweet watermelon chunks paired with salty feta and fresh mint create an unexpected delight. Trust me, this combo will surprise your taste buds in the best way possible!
Crispy Potato Sides
Who doesn’t love potatoes? These crispy, golden sides add the perfect crunch to your lobster roll meal. Here are some crowd favorites:
- Fries (French or Sweet Potato): Golden-brown and perfectly seasoned, these crispy strips are always a hit. I love dipping mine in a little malt vinegar for that extra punch of flavor.
- Baked Potato Chips: Homemade chips with just the right amount of salt make every bite special. They’re lighter than regular chips but still give you that satisfying crunch you’re craving.
- Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and loaded with garlic butter goodness. These little gems disappear fast at my dinner table!
- Herbed Potato Salad: Tender potatoes tossed with fresh herbs and a light dressing create the perfect summer side. It’s like a potato salad got a fancy makeover!
Easy Vegetable Sides
Let’s add some color and nutrition to your plate! These veggie sides are simple but pack tons of flavor.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and slathered with butter – nothing says summer quite like this! The char marks add extra flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.
- Air Fryer Green Beans: Perfectly crispy and seasoned green beans with just a touch of garlic. The air fryer makes these so crispy, they’re like healthy french fries – my kids actually ask for seconds!
- Oven Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and bell peppers roasted until caramelized. The natural sweetness of these veggies makes your meal feel complete and wholesome.
- Asparagus with Lemon Butter: Tender-crisp spears drizzled with zesty lemon butter create an elegant side. You’ll love how the bright citrus cuts through the richness of your lobster roll.
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems burst with sweet-tart flavor when roasted. I love how they pop in your mouth and add beautiful color to the plate.
- Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots with a sticky maple glaze that’ll make everyone happy. The natural sweetness pairs surprisingly well with seafood.
Cheesy and Comforting Dishes
Sometimes you need that extra comfort factor! These cheesy sides add warmth and satisfaction to your meal.
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy pasta that’s pure comfort food. The rich sauce and tender noodles make this classic side dish impossible to resist.
- Baked Cheese Risotto: Creamy arborio rice loaded with parmesan creates pure comfort in every bite. The crispy top adds an amazing texture contrast you won’t forget.
- Cauliflower Cheese Bread: A low-carb twist on cheesy bread that’s absolutely addictive. The golden-brown top and gooey center make this a crowd favorite at my house.
- Easy Cheese Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits packed with sharp cheddar. They’re perfect for soaking up any extra lobster butter – trust me on this one!
Healthy Grain Dishes
Looking for something nutritious and filling? These grain-based sides have got you covered.
- Summer Quinoa Salad: Fiber and protein-packed with colorful vegetables and a citrus dressing. It’s like a confetti party on your plate that’s actually good for you!
- Wild Rice Pilaf: Nutty wild rice mixed with sauteed vegetables and herbs creates an earthy complement. The different textures make every forkful interesting.
- Farro with Roasted Vegetables: Chewy farro mixed with roasted seasonal veggies and fresh herbs creates a hearty side. The nutty grain and caramelized vegetables make this both healthy and satisfying.
- Pearl Couscous: Tiny pasta pearls tossed with roasted garlic, herbs, and a splash of lemon juice. The unique texture and Mediterranean flavors make this side dish extra special.
Summer Fruit Sides
Add a sweet and refreshing twist to your meal! These fruit-based sides bring brightness and natural sweetness that perfectly balance the savory lobster.
- Grilled Pineapple: Sweet and smoky with beautiful grill marks that add a tropical touch. The caramelization brings out natural sugars that’ll make your taste buds sing.
- Apple Coleslaw: Crisp apple strips mixed with cabbage and a light, tangy dressing. It’s like regular coleslaw got a sweet, crunchy upgrade – my family’s absolute favorite!
- Mixed Berry Salad: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries tossed with mint and honey. The bright flavors make this the perfect summer side dish.
- Melon Balls: Colorful spheres of cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon create an elegant presentation. They’re like little balls of summer sunshine on your plate!
Unique Crispy Appetizers
Looking for something different? These crispy sides add unexpected fun to your lobster roll meal.
- Onion Rings: Golden-brown circles of sweet onion in crispy batter. I love the satisfying crunch and how they’re not too heavy like traditional fries.
- Fried Pickles: Tangy dill pickles in a crispy coating that’ll make you smile. The salty-sour combo is absolutely addictive with a cool ranch dip.
- Truffle Fries: Classic fries elevated with truffle oil and parmesan. They’re fancy enough for company but easy enough for a treat-yourself dinner.
- Parmesan Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini sticks coated in parmesan and herbs. A healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice any of the fun or flavor!
Warm Soups
Sometimes you need something warm and comforting alongside your rolls. So, I don’t miss soups with lobster rolls.
- Clam Chowder: Creamy New England-style soup loaded with tender clams and potatoes. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl that complements your lobster roll perfectly.
- Lobster Bisque: Smooth, rich soup with chunks of sweet lobster meat. Double the seafood goodness – because sometimes more is definitely more!
- Gazpacho: Cool, refreshing tomato-based soup that’s perfect for hot days. The fresh vegetables and herbs wake up your taste buds.
Refreshing Drinks to Serve with Lobster Rolls
Every great meal needs the perfect beverage! These drinks will make your lobster roll shine.
- Classic Lemonade: Fresh-squeezed lemons mixed with just the right amount of sweetness. Nothing beats this summer classic with a seafood feast.
- White Wine Sangria: Crisp white wine filled with fresh fruit and a splash of sparkle. It’s like summer in a glass that’ll make your meal feel extra special.
- Iced Arnold Palmer: The perfect balance of sweet tea and tart lemonade. This refreshing combo never fails to hit the spot on a warm day.
- Cucumber Mint Spritzer: Cool cucumber and fresh mint mixed with sparkling water. It’s like a spa day in a glass that perfectly complements your meal.
Final Thoughts
Picking the perfect sides for your lobster roll doesn’t have to be complicated! Mix and match these options to create your ideal meal.
I love pairing a crispy side with something fresh and light – like truffle fries with a watermelon feta salad.
The possibilities are endless! Remember, the best combinations are the ones you enjoy most.
So go ahead, get creative, and make your lobster roll meal an unforgettable experience.
