Lobster Roll Pasta Salad

Name: Lobster Roll Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz farfalle pasta; 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped; 1 cup celery, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals

I've always been a fan of the classic lobster roll, but sometimes I crave the ease of a pasta salad. That's when I decided to combine the two! This Lobster Roll Pasta Salad brings the best of both worlds together in a light, refreshing dish that captures the flavors of summer. The tender pasta is coated in a creamy, tangy dressing that perfectly complements the sweet lobster. Each bite feels like a coastal getaway, making it perfect for gatherings or a fancy weeknight dinner.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-22T11:53:28.450Z

When I first created this Lobster Roll Pasta Salad, I wanted to preserve that iconic flavor of the lobster roll while making it easier to serve at a picnic. I found that using farfalle pasta works best because its shape holds onto the dressing and ingredients beautifully. Plus, I experimented with a light lemon juice and mayonnaise combo, adding just enough zest to enhance the lobster without overwhelming it.

After a bit of trial and error, I discovered that incorporating fresh celery and chives adds a nice crunch and subtle onion flavor. Serve it chilled for the best experience, and don't forget to enjoy it with a glass of chilled white wine—it truly elevates the dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors
Easy to make and great for meal prep
A fun twist on a classic New England dish

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

To achieve the best flavor in your Lobster Roll Pasta Salad, using fresh ingredients is crucial. Select live lobsters if possible, as they yield the sweetest meat. If you’re buying pre-cooked lobster, ensure it’s from a reputable source to maintain freshness. Fresh vegetables like celery and chives add not only vibrant flavor but also a crunchy texture that complements the tender pasta beautifully.

Quality mayonnaise makes a significant difference in the dressing’s overall taste. I recommend using a premium brand or even homemade mayonnaise for a richer flavor. Adding freshly squeezed lemon juice will brighten the dish, elevating all the flavors, so avoid bottled lemon juice if you can.

Mastering the Dressing

The dressing is what ties the ingredients together, so it’s important to get the right consistency and flavor. When mixing the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, aim for a smooth texture. If it seems too thick, you can thin it out with a teaspoon of water or extra lemon juice, but do so gradually to avoid over-dilution.

Taste the dressing before adding it to the pasta. Depending on your preference, you might want to adjust the acidity by adding more lemon juice or sweetness with a touch of sugar. This balance can elevate the dish’s overall enjoyment and ensure that every bite is seasoned perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful presentation, consider serving your Lobster Roll Pasta Salad in a large bowl garnished with additional chives or lemon wedges. This not only adds color but also a fresh aroma that enhances the dining experience. If you want to make this dish more substantial, pair it with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature but may require a bit of extra dressing to maintain its creaminess if it sits for a while. I recommend giving it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

8 oz farfalle pasta
1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
1 cup celery, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped lobster meat, diced celery, red onion, and chives.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the lobster with shrimp or crab if desired. Add a bit of Old Bay seasoning for an extra kick of flavor!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Lobster Roll Pasta Salad is a perfect dish to make ahead of time. Prepare the pasta and the dressing separately, mixing them just before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much moisture and becoming mushy. You can also chop the vegetables and lobster a day in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the fridge. This allows you to throw everything together quickly when you're ready to serve.

For even better flavor, consider allowing the salad to chill for a few hours or overnight before serving. This resting time lets the ingredients meld together, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Just keep in mind that if you're preparing ahead, you may want to adjust the seasoning right before serving, as flavors can mellow during refrigeration.

Dietary Substitutions

If you’re looking for a lighter version of this Lobster Roll Pasta Salad, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. This swap not only reduces calories but also adds a creamy texture without sacrificing flavor. For those with dietary restrictions, you can replace pasta with gluten-free alternatives like quinoa or chickpea pasta for a gluten-free option that still captures the essence of the dish.

For a vegan variation, feel free to substitute the lobster with marinated tofu or a variety of roasted vegetables. The dressing can also be created using a vegan mayo, making it a refreshing and inclusive dish for everyone at the table.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making pasta salads is overcooking the pasta. To avoid this, closely follow the package instructions, and always check a minute or two ahead of the recommended cooking time. The pasta should be al dente, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the dressing and chilled. If you do overcook it, consider using it in a warm pasta dish instead.

If your salad seems too dry after sitting in the fridge, it's likely that the pasta has absorbed too much of the dressing. Remedy this by gently tossing in a bit of extra mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice before serving. This will revive the creaminess and enhance the overall flavor without detracting from the dish's integrity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, this Lobster Roll Pasta Salad can be made up to a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.

→ What should I serve with it?

This salad pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a light, satisfying meal.

→ Is it possible to freeze the pasta salad?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the lobster meat separately. Just make sure to enjoy the pasta salad within 2-3 days for the best texture.

→ Can I use any type of pasta?

While farfalle works great, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like rotini or penne, keeping the cooking times in mind.