We love traditional New England lobster rolls so much that we recreated them using our beloved Dungeness crab! Enjoy our tested and perfected our crab roll recipe with hoagie rolls, crab meat, mayo, and lemon. Simple ingredients to make this delicious PNW crustacean shine through.

Now, that's how you can impress your seafood-loving guests just like we do on the coast!

crab roll sandwich with chimichurri and pickled onions

We catch and cook hundreds of crab every season and this recipe is always top on our list for a low-key dinner or serving our guests.

Whether you're hosting a summer picnic or simply craving a satisfying meal, this crab sandwich is ready to impress. Made with fresh caught crab meat, that we caught and cooked ourselves on the Pacific Coast. The combination of flavors happening here from the crab salad, to my homemade Mediterranean Chimichurri is exceptional!

Table of Contents

HOW TO MAKE CRAB ROLLS

First things first, we're going to gather all our ingredients to make this as easy as possible!

Then, I like to make the delicious crab salad and pop it in the fridge to chill.

Then, toast the buns so they stay nice and warm while we assemble the crab sandwich. I like to top it with this bright flavor-packed chimichurri and simple pickled red onions. Which is optional but a great pop of flavor.

SUBSTITUTIONS

What can I use instead of Old Bay seasoning?

If you don't have Old Bay seasoning on hand, you can create a substitute by combining paprika, celery salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, ground mustard, and a pinch of nutmeg. Adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences

Can I substitute the mayonnaise with another ingredient?

Sure! If you're not a fan of mayonnaise or looking for a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead. They'll provide a similar creamy texture and flavor that we're after.

Can I use a different type of roll for the sandwiches?

Absolutely! While the soft rolls like hot dog buns or brioche rolls are commonly used, you can experiment with different types of rolls or bread. Hoagie rolls or even crusty baguettes can add a different texture and flavor to the sandwiches.

Can I use canned crab meat for crab roll sandwiches?

While fresh crab meat is often preferred for its flavor and texture, canned crab meat can be a convenient alternative. Just make sure to drain the canned crab meat well before using it in the recipe.

MAKE AHEAD & STORING CRAB ROLLS

Can I make the crab filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crab filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before assembling the sandwiches. Just make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.

How long can I store leftover crab roll sandwiches?

Leftover crab roll sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it's recommended to consume them within 24 hours.

WHAT SIDES TO SERVE WITH CRAB ROLLS

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Crab Rolls

We love traditional New England lobster rolls so much that we recreated them using our beloved Dungeness crab! This crab roll recipe is packed with crab meat and simple ingredients that take the classic recipe up a notch.

5 from 3 votes

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean, Pacific Coast

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

Prep: 20

Cook: 2

Total: 22

Servings: servings

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Ingredients

To Assemble The Crab Rolls

2 hoagie rolls
2 tablespoon homemade chimichurri
A few pieces of pickled red onion, optional

For The Crab Salad

2 cups crab meat picked through for shells
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoon green onion finely chopped
2 tablespoon of lemon juice
½ teaspoon thyme
¼ teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
Old Bay, to taste

Instructions

Using a strainer, place the crab meat and gently squeeze out all the juice to avoid a soggy crab salad.
In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, green onion, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Taste and add salt.
Gently toss in the crab meat being careful not to break the large pieces so they make a statement.
Toast the hoagie rolls in a toaster oven until golden brown and crispy on the outside but still soft on the inside.
Add half of the crab salad to each roll then top with homemade chimichurri and pickled red onions. The toppings are optional but they add an extra touch of Mediterranean flavor. Enjoy while the salad is chilled and the rolls are warm and toasted.

Notes

SUBSTITUTES