While lobster rolls are often hailed as the quintessential summer sandwich, their steep price tag can be a deterrent for many. At upwards of $30 per roll, indulging frequently may not be feasible for everyone's budget, especially when there are bills to pay, like air conditioning costs. However, fear not! There's a delicious and wallet-friendly alternative that you can enjoy without breaking the bank: the summer shrimp roll.

Why Choose Shrimp Rolls Over Lobster Rolls?

Shrimp rolls offer a similar experience to lobster rolls but at a fraction of the cost. Not only are they more affordable, but they are also easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. With pre-cooked, frozen shrimp readily available, you can whip up a batch of shrimp rolls in no time. For approximately $10, you can make around a dozen rolls, providing an economical option for hosting a summer gathering without compromising on taste.

The Key to a Great Shrimp Roll: Simple and Minimal Dressing

Just like with lobster rolls, the secret to a delicious shrimp roll lies in keeping the dressing simple and minimal. While lobster roll enthusiasts may debate between butter or mayo, for shrimp rolls, a light mayo dressing is recommended. However, feel free to experiment with melted butter if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Preparation Made Easy with Pre-Cooked, Frozen Shrimp

Pre-cooked, frozen shrimp is a game-changer when it comes to making shrimp rolls. They are already cleaned, cooked, and have their tails removed, making the preparation process a breeze. Simply defrost the shrimp according to the package instructions, rinse, and pat dry with paper towels. If you have raw shrimp, you can blanch them in boiling water or pan-fry them with your choice of seasonings for added flavor.

Customize Your Shrimp Roll with a Variety of Flavorings

One of the best aspects of shrimp rolls is their versatility. You can easily customize the flavor to suit your preferences. For the dry seasoning, I used Old Bay, but feel free to use any seasoning that appeals to you, such as Mrs. Dash, Lawry's, or garam masala. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, a spoonful of mayo, and some thinly sliced celery and chopped chives for a fresh and light yet satisfying shrimp salad. Tuck the mixture into hot dog buns, and you have a delicious and budget-friendly summer sandwich.

Easy Shrimp Roll Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup medium-sized pre-cooked shrimp  
• ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 2 teaspoons mayonnaise
• 1 squeeze of lemon
• Sliced celery to taste
• Chopped chives to taste
• 2 split-top hot dog rolls
• 2 leaves of butterhead lettuce

Instructions:    

1. Mix the shrimp, seasoning, mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, and chives together in a small bowl.
2. Tuck the lettuce into the hot dog roll and divide the shrimp salad evenly between the two sandwich buns.
3. Enjoy your delicious and economical shrimp rolls right away!

Indulge Without Going Broke

Unlike summer vacations, shrimp rolls offer an opportunity to indulge in a delicious and satisfying meal without putting a strain on your finances. By opting for shrimp rolls over lobster rolls, you can continue to enjoy the flavors of summer while keeping your air conditioning bill paid and your wallet intact.

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