When the sun starts shining and the air is filled with the scent of summer, there’s nothing quite like a seafood feast to celebrate the season. I recently decided to elevate my summer cookouts with a dish that captures the essence of warm, breezy days: Creamy Grilled Shrimp Rolls on Buttery Brioche Buns. These delightful rolls bring together the juicy goodness of perfectly grilled shrimp and a luxurious creamy dressing, all nestled in a golden, toasty bun.
I was inspired to create this twist on the classic lobster roll when I found myself craving something light yet satisfying. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors that dance on your palate. Perfect for gatherings or a refreshing lunch on a hot day, these shrimp rolls are sure to impress family and friends without keeping you tied to the kitchen. So, let’s dive into this summer delight that promises smiles all around!
Why love Grilled Shrimp Rolls on Brioche Buns?
Freshness in Every Bite: These rolls celebrate the juicy, grilled shrimp that captures summer’s essence like no other dish.
Creamy Delight: A luxurious mayonnaise dressing complements the shrimp, creating a rich flavor that elevates each bite.
Simplicity Matters: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this dish with minimal effort.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a light lunch, these rolls are sure to be a hit!
Flavor in Versatility: Feel free to swap in other seafood or buns, tailoring them to your taste.
Get ready to impress with a dish that combines ease and delight!
Grilled Shrimp Rolls Ingredients
For the Shrimp Mixture
- Shrimp – Fresh, high-quality shrimp provides the best flavor; substitute cooked shrimp if needed.
- Mayonnaise – Acts as the creamy base for the mixture; swap with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish with acidity; fresh juice is ideal, but bottled works too.
- Hot Sauce – Adds a kick and enhances flavors; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Chives – Fresh herb that brings a burst of flavor; can be substituted with green onions or parsley.
- Celery – Provides a crunchy texture; choose to omit for a smoother blend.
- Scallions – Offers a subtle onion flavor; shallots can be used as an alternative.
For Assembly
- Brioche Buns – Their buttery texture perfectly complements the grilled shrimp; any soft bun can be swapped in.
Get ready to relish in these Grilled Shrimp Rolls on Brioche Buns, crafted with simple yet fresh ingredients that shine together!
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Rolls on Brioche Buns
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Prepare the shrimp mixture: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Gently fold in the chopped scallions, celery, and chives for a burst of freshness. Chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
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Grill the shrimp: Pat the fresh shrimp dry with a paper towel, then toss them in olive oil and a pinch of salt. Grill the shrimp over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are charmingly charred and opaque. Once cooked, let them cool slightly.
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Toast the buns: Lightly grill the brioche buns over low heat until they turn a beautiful golden brown, making them warm and crispy.
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Combine the ingredients: Chop the grilled shrimp into bite-sized pieces and gently mix them into the chilled mayonnaise mixture, ensuring every piece is deliciously coated.
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Assemble your rolls: Generously spoon the shrimp salad into the toasted brioche buns. To add a final touch, garnish with additional chives, sliced scallions, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Optional: Serve with a side of tangy coleslaw for a delightful crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Shrimp Rolls
- Fridge: Store leftover grilled shrimp salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, only fill the buns just before serving.
- Freezer: You can freeze the shrimp mixture (without the buns) in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
- Reheating: If refrigerated, gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent toughness.
- Room Temperature: Serve the grilled shrimp rolls at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture, ideally within 2 hours of preparation.
Expert Tips for Grilled Shrimp Rolls
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Select High-Quality Shrimp: Choose fresh shrimp, as frozen or previously cooked shrimp may lack the desired flavor and texture for your grilled shrimp rolls.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should be slightly charred and opaque, ensuring they remain juicy and tender.
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Chill the Dressing: Let the mayonnaise mixture chill for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the flavors, making your grilled shrimp rolls even more delightful.
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Perfectly Toasted Buns: Grill the brioche buns just until golden. Over-toasting can lead to a crumbly texture that won’t hold the filling well.
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Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the garnish! Fresh herbs and flaky sea salt add that final touch of flavor to your grilled shrimp rolls.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Shrimp Rolls on Brioche Buns are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavors even on the busiest of days! You can prepare the shrimp mixture up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the mayonnaise, lemon juice, hot sauce, scallions, celery, and chives, then refrigerating it (this not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully). The grilled shrimp can also be cooked ahead, stored in an airtight container, and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply chop the shrimp, mix with the chilled mayonnaise mixture, and assemble in toasted brioche buns for a delicious meal that’s just as delightful as when it was first made!
What to Serve with Grilled Shrimp Rolls on Brioche Buns?
Pair these delectable shrimp rolls with a medley of vibrant flavors and textures that will elevate your summer dining experience.
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Crispy Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch balances the creamy shrimp, bringing a delightful texture contrast that brightens each bite. Its tanginess complements the rich flavors perfectly.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn soaked in butter enhances the summery vibe. This classic side is a must-have for outdoor cookouts, bursting with flavor.
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Garlic Butter Asparagus: Tender asparagus lightly sautéed in garlic and butter offers a fresh, green element to your plate. Its subtle earthiness pairs beautifully with the shrimp’s sweetness.
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Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds a hearty touch while offering a cool, comforting flavor that makes the meal feel complete and satisfying without overshadowing the shrimp.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio acts as the perfect pairing with shrimp, enhancing the dish’s fresh seafood elements and zesty notes.
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Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of fresh fruits like watermelon, berries, and mint creates a light, sweet finish to your meal. The natural sweetness and juiciness harmonize wonderfully with the grilled shrimp.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing beverages are perfect companions, cutting through the richness of the rolls and complementing the summertime essence of the dish.
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Blueberry Pie: For dessert, indulge in a slice of homemade blueberry pie. Its tart sweetness provides a lovely contrast to the savory shrimp, rounding out your meal with a delightful end note.
These accompaniments will create a well-rounded dining experience, celebrating the complementary flavors of summer!
Grilled Shrimp Rolls on Brioche Buns Variations
Feel free to get adventurous and tailor these rolls to your taste buds—there’s no wrong way to enjoy a delicious shrimp roll!
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Seafood Medley: Swap shrimp for diced crab or lobster for an indulgent twist that will delight seafood lovers.
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Herb Blend: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill or basil for a unique flavor boost that brightens the dish.
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Greek Yogurt: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter option while still keeping it creamy and delicious.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the shrimp mixture for an extra layer of heat that excites your palate.
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Crunchy Add-In: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or cucumbers for a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy shrimp filling.
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Whole-Grain Goodness: Swap brioche buns for whole-grain or ciabatta rolls if you’re seeking a heartier option that adds an earthy flavor.
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Squeeze of Citrus: Drizzle fresh lime juice over the shrimp before grilling for an added zesty punch that perfectly complements the mayo dressing.
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Smoky Flavors: Incorporate smoked paprika into the shrimp marinade for a rich, smoky depth that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Grilled Shrimp Rolls on Brioche Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh shrimp for my rolls?
Absolutely! Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slightly translucent sheen. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a strong fishy smell, as these indicate they may not be fresh. It’s best to buy shrimp in-store on the day you plan to use them, especially if they’re displayed on ice.
How should I store leftover grilled shrimp salad?
Very! You can keep the leftover grilled shrimp salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, to keep your buns from getting soggy, refrain from filling them until you’re ready to serve. Just spoon the shrimp mixture into the buns right before you’re ready to enjoy them!
Can I freeze the shrimp mixture for later use?
Definitely! To freeze the grilled shrimp mixture, transfer it into a sealed container, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Before you assemble, give it a gentle mix, as the dressing can separate during freezing.
What should I do if my shrimp turns out tough?
Oh no! If you find that your shrimp is tough, it might have been overcooked. Shrimp cooks quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes per side on high heat, so keep a close eye on them. To help avoid this in the future, make sure to remove them from the grill when they’re just opaque but still moist inside for that delicious, tender bite.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! Be mindful of allergies, as shrimp is a common allergen. For those who prefer alternative proteins, you can substitute shrimp with lump crab or lobster for a delightful variation. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, consider using a vegan mayo in place of traditional mayonnaise for that creamy texture without the dairy.
Can I prepare the shrimp rolls ahead of time?
Very much so! You can prepare the shrimp mixture and toast the buns a few hours in advance. Just store them separately until it’s time to serve. This way, you’ll have everything ready to go when your guests arrive, and you can enjoy those breezy summer moments without stress!
Irresistibly Creamy Grilled Shrimp Rolls on Brioche Buns
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Gently fold in the chopped scallions, celery, and chives for a burst of freshness. Chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Pat the fresh shrimp dry with a paper towel, then toss them in olive oil and a pinch of salt. Grill the shrimp over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are charmingly charred and opaque. Once cooked, let them cool slightly.
- Lightly grill the brioche buns over low heat until they turn a beautiful golden brown, making them warm and crispy.
- Chop the grilled shrimp into bite-sized pieces and gently mix them into the chilled mayonnaise mixture, ensuring every piece is deliciously coated.
- Generously spoon the shrimp salad into the toasted brioche buns. To add a final touch, garnish with additional chives, sliced scallions, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.