Blue Apron Is Now Offering Seasonal Meal Kits. Here's What To Expect

One popular meal kit delivery company is aiming to make it easier than ever to whip up one of summer's most iconic dishes. In a press release, Blue Apron announced the debut of the first in an upcoming series of seasonal meal kits featuring a warm weather favorite: lobster rolls.

The company, which launched in 2012, was one of the first major meal kit delivery services, paving the way for a tidal wave of similar delivery concepts that followed in its wake (via Washington Post). Today, the meal kit industry is a crowded space, with companies offering just about every variation of culinary kit imaginable, from vegan and gluten-free options to keto and paleo meal systems, to creative kits aimed at winning over party-throwing foodies.

According to Blue Apron, a recent consumer poll found that 89% of respondents "were interested in a seasonal offering to help them celebrate special moments," seasons, and events. In the past, Blue Apron has offered a limited number of specialty meal kits for occasions like Thanksgiving, but the summer kit marks their most season-specific offering yet.

"This special spread is designed to embody the spirit of summer — it's effortless, indulgent, and fun," the company said in a blog post. "Whether hosting friends or making family dinner, you'll be delighted by how easy it can be to prepare a memorable feast." 

Following in the steps of lobster roll delivery providers like Luke's Lobster and Goldbelly, Blue Apron's Summer Lobster Box will include recipes and ingredients for Maine-style lobster rolls and a trio of summery side dishes: corn on the cob with garlic and herb butter; green salad with feta, tomatoes, and radishes; and creamy potato salad with capers and pickled peppers.

"These recipes were designed to be decadent, yet quick to prepare. The pre-cooked lobster saves our customers time in the kitchen by not having to cook it themselves, let it cool, then break down and pick the meat," said Jonathan Adler, Blue Apron's Vice President of Culinary, in a press release. "Designed to be ready in 60 minutes, the toasted rolls are filled with lightly dressed lobster, garnished with chives, and finished with a squeeze of lemon juice."

Customers who purchase the lobster box will also receive a recipe for basil lemonade cocktails and placemats filled with lobster trivia to make summer party planning a breeze.

Lobster enthusiasts can order one of the specialty summer boxes via the Blue Apron website for delivery starting June 27 while supplies last. The boxes will be available to both Blue Apron subscribers and non-subscribers through the company's online market. If you aren't able to snag one of the limited-time boxes, give this classic lobster roll recipe a try for your next backyard dinner or summer soiree.