Rhode Island Grilled Lobster Rolls

Introduction

Grilled lobster rolls are a cherished New England staple, and with the Arteflame grill, you can make them better than ever. Using high-heat searing and the precision of its flat top griddle, this lobster roll recipe brings out the sweet, delicate flavor of fresh lobster tail, enhanced by rich butter and fresh herbs. Perfect for seafood lovers, this Rhode Island-style grilled lobster roll captures coastal charm and exquisite taste—all without a pot or oven in sight. Let’s dive into the smokey, juicy seaside flavors cooked entirely on your Arteflame grill.

Ingredients

• 4 fresh lobster tails (or 1.5 lbs of lobster meat)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• Juice from 1 lemon
• 4 split-top brioche or New England-style hot dog buns
• Kosher salt to taste
• Fresh cracked black pepper to taste
• Extra butter for toasting buns
• Optional: pinch of smoked paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Place 3 paper napkins in the center of the grill bowl.
2. Pour a small amount of vegetable oil on each napkin.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches searing temperature (about 1,000°F), and the outer flat top is hot and ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Lobster Meat

1. Using kitchen shears, cut the lobster shells and remove the tails from the shells.
2. Clean and pat dry the lobster meat.
3. Brush generously with melted butter and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika (optional).

Step 3: Sear the Lobster on the Center Grate

1. Place the lobster tails on the center grill grate for 2 minutes per side to sear and infuse with smoke.
2. Immediately move them to the flat top griddle to finish cooking gently. Lobster should reach 135°F before removing; it will carry over to 150°F.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

1. Brush each bun with butter.
2. Place on the flat top near the outer edge for about 1–2 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Mix and Assemble

1. Roughly chop the cooked lobster pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl on the flat top, combine lobster with the remaining butter, chopped chives, parsley, and lemon juice. Warm gently on the cooler side of the flat top.
3. Stuff each toasted bun with warm, buttered lobster mix.

Tips

• Use fresh lobster for the best flavor—avoid pre-cooked or frozen if possible.
• Always remove seafood at least 15°F before your target temperature, as carryover cooking brings it to perfect doneness.
• Sear meat on the center grill grate for maximum char and flavor, then transfer to the flat top to finish.
• Don't overload buns; keep it elegant for the best texture and taste.

Variations

1. Garlic Herb Lobster Roll: Add minced garlic to the butter and sauté on the flat top before mixing with lobster meat.
2. Spicy Rhode Island Lobster Roll: Toss lobster with a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes for a kick.
3. Citrus Twist Roll: Add orange zest and extra lemon juice for a light, citrus-bright flavor.
4. Smokey Bacon Lobster Roll: Grill bacon on the flat top and crumble it into your lobster mix.
5. Avocado Lobster Roll: Add grilled avocado slices and a splash of lime for a West Coast fusion flavor.

Conclusion

With the Arteflame grill, cooking Rhode Island-style grilled lobster rolls becomes a gourmet experience right in your backyard. The combination of buttery, seared lobster and crispy toasted buns, all cooked with precision heat zones, delivers flavor that’s unmatched by traditional grilling. This recipe proves you don’t need a pot, pan, or oven to create spectacular seafood. Fire up the grill and savor the taste of Rhode Island at its finest.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn with garlic butter on the Arteflame flat top
• Chilled Coleslaw with a hint of honey-mustard
• Grilled lemon wedges for added zest
• Crisp Rosé or Sauvignon Blanc
• Rhode Island-style clam cakes