Mediterranean Crawfish Roll (Quick Recipe)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Crawfish Mix:
1 lb cooked crawfish tails (or shrimp)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup cream cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Rolls:
4 hot dog or brioche buns
2 tbsp olive oil (for toasting)
Creole seasoning, for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Crawfish Mix:
In a medium skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
Add the crawfish tails (or shrimp) and cook for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
Reduce heat slightly and stir in cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and salt & pepper.
Mix well until creamy and evenly coated. Remove from heat.
Toast the Rolls:
Heat a separate skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Brush the cut sides of the buns with olive oil and toast for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Assemble the Rolls:
Spoon the creamy crawfish mixture into each toasted bun.
Sprinkle lightly with Creole seasoning for extra flavor.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve:
Serve immediately while warm. Perfect with a side of chips or a light salad.
Tips
Use fresh or frozen crawfish/shrimp: If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the mix.
Balance the creaminess: Adjust the mayo and cream cheese to your liking—less for a lighter mix, more for extra richness.
Toast the buns well: A nicely toasted bun adds crunch and prevents sogginess from the creamy filling.
Season gradually: Taste as you go when adding salt, pepper, or cayenne—crawfish can vary in natural saltiness.
Prep ahead: You can mix the crawfish filling a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Toast buns just before serving.
Variations
Cheesy Twist: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the crawfish mixture while still warm for a gooey version.
Herb Boost: Mix in fresh dill, chives, or basil along with parsley for a brighter flavor.
Spicy Kick: Increase cayenne or add a few drops of hot sauce for more heat.
Mediterranean Style: Include diced roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of feta for extra Mediterranean flair.
Bread Swap: Try ciabatta rolls, mini baguettes, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Grilled Version: Grill the buns and even the crawfish briefly to add a smoky flavor.
Q&A
Q: Can I use shrimp instead of crawfish?
A: Absolutely. Shrimp works perfectly and cooks quickly. You can use pre-cooked shrimp to save time.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the crawfish mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Toast the buns and assemble just before serving for best texture.
Q: Can this be made spicy?
A: Yes. Increase cayenne pepper, add hot sauce, or sprinkle more Creole seasoning to taste.
Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Chips, a light salad, roasted vegetables, or Mediterranean-style coleslaw pair well.
Q: Can I make it low-carb?
A: Use lettuce wraps or low-carb buns instead of traditional hot dog or brioche buns.
Nutrition
(per roll, approximate)
Calories: 330–380 kcal
Protein: 18–22 g
Carbohydrates: 25–30 g
Fat: 18–22 g
Fiber: 1–2 g
Sugar: 3–4 g
Sodium: 450–550 mg
Note: Values vary depending on bun choice, amount of mayo/cream cheese, and exact portion sizes.
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Crawfish Roll is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish perfect for lunch, casual dinners, or even entertaining. The creamy, spiced crawfish filling pairs beautifully with toasted buns and a touch of Creole seasoning, giving a slightly smoky, zesty flavor. With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized with herbs, spice levels, or bread choices. Easy to make ahead and assemble, it’s a flexible and delicious option for any day.