Pasta salads are a summer favorite, perfect for BBQs and picnics. They’re easy to make ahead and pair well with grilled foods like hot dogs and hamburgers. Plus, you can get creative with mix-ins and dressings for a dish that’s always a hit at gatherings.
We’re giving the classic macaroni salad a delicious twist by adding lobster and crispy bacon. It’s like upgrading your favorite BLT sandwich or lobster roll to a potluck-friendly version. Fancy enough for a romantic meal outdoors, but still a classic choice for any summer event. You can switch up the pasta type or use different veggies based on what you have on hand.
While most pasta salads last up to 5 days in the fridge, because of the lobster, it’s best to enjoy this one within 2 days of making it.
Lobster Roll Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 pound bacon chopped
- 1 cup 2 sticks butter
- 16 ounces lobster meat tail or claw, chopped
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 pound elbow macaroni or penne
- 2 large celery stalks finely chopped
- 1 medium red onion finely chopped
- 12 ounces cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 large lemon about 1/4 cup
- 4 cloves garlic grated
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh tarragon
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a large bowl using a slotted spoon.
- Step 2: Reduce the heat to low and stir the butter into the bacon grease until melted. Add the lobster and cook until firm, about 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer the lobster to the bowl with the bacon using a slotted spoon.
- Step 3: Bring the water in the pot to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Step 4: In the bowl with the lobster mixture, add the celery, onion, tomatoes, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, tarragon, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Step 5: Drain the pasta and let it cool slightly. Add the pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
- Step 6: Serve the pasta salad warm, or chill it in the refrigerator for 2 hours before serving.