Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a delightful twist on the classic egg salad. With creamy cottage cheese and fresh ingredients, it offers a healthier, low-fat option that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or brunch. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying dish to serve at gatherings, this egg salad stands out with its tangy flavor and easy preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: Using cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise cuts down on calories while adding protein.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe only takes 16 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on toast, in wraps, or as a dip with crackers; it’s perfect for any meal.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of scallions and Dijon mustard adds a refreshing zing to every bite.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and store in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Small pot
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Strainer
Importance of Each Tool
- Small pot: Essential for boiling the eggs evenly and efficiently.
- Mixing bowl: Helps combine all ingredients without spilling, ensuring easy mixing.
- Fork: Used to mash the dressing mixture to achieve the right creamy consistency.
- Strainer: Helps cool boiled eggs quickly by allowing cold water to circulate around them.
Ingredients
This cottage cheese egg salad is a healthier, low-fat version of classic egg salad. It’s creamy, tangy, delicious, and simple to make. Perfect for breakfast, lunch or brunch or as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
- ⅔ cup cottage cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 5-6 tablespoons scallions/spring onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1½ teaspoons Dijon-style mustard (or to taste)
- ⅓ teaspoon fine sea salt (and black pepper to taste)
- ⅓ teaspoon red pepper flakes
How to Make Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
Step 1: Boil Eggs
Place the eggs in a small pot, add water then cover and bring to the boil. Turn off the heat and leave the eggs in the pot for 7-8 minutes (do not remove the lid). TIP: This is how I like to cook hard-boiled eggs, but you can use another method if preferred.
Step 2: Cool Eggs
Strain then immerse the eggs in very cold water (add ice cubes if possible) for about 2 minutes. After about 30 seconds add more ice cubes or change the water to make sure it stays cold. Drain off the water then wipe and peel the eggs.
Step 3: Chop Eggs
Cut each egg in half lengthwise. Remove the egg yolks from 4 eggs and place them in a shallow bowl. Finely chop the 2 remaining whole eggs and egg whites. Set aside.
Step 4: Make Dressing Mixture
Combine the egg yolks with 2 tablespoons of cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard. Mash with a fork until thick and creamy (it doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth).
Step 5: Assemble
In a mixing bowl add chopped eggs, remaining cottage cheese, scallions, creamy dressing, salt and pepper, along with most of the pepper flakes. Stir until thoroughly combined and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle remaining pepper flakes on top. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving if possible.
Enjoy your delicious Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad!
How to Serve Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply enjoying a light lunch, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
On Toast
- Avocado Toast: Spread the egg salad on whole-grain toast topped with sliced avocado for a creamy and nutritious meal.
- Bagel Sandwich: Use a toasted bagel as a base for the salad, adding lettuce or spinach for extra crunch.
In Wraps
- Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the salad into large lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option that’s perfect for a quick snack.
- Tortilla Wraps: Roll the salad in whole wheat tortillas with veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers for a satisfying lunch.
As a Dip
- Veggie Dip: Serve the egg salad alongside an assortment of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell pepper strips for dipping.
- Cracker Spread: Use whole grain crackers as a base for the egg salad; it’s an excellent option for appetizers.
With Salads
- Mixed Green Salad: Top a bed of mixed greens with the cottage cheese egg salad for added protein in your meal.
- Pasta Salad Addition: Mix it into cold pasta salads for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
How to Perfect Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
To ensure your Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh scallions and high-quality cottage cheese to enhance flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your preferences. This customization will elevate your dish.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps meld flavors together beautifully.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding chopped herbs like dill or parsley, or even diced pickles to enhance flavor profiles.
- Keep Eggs Cold During Cooling: Using ice water immediately after boiling helps prevent overcooking and keeps the eggs tender.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad can create a complete meal. Here are some ideas that complement its creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness that balances the savory flavors of the egg salad.
- Crispy Potato Chips: The crunchiness of potato chips provides contrast; opt for baked versions for a healthier choice.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette adds fiber while keeping your meal wholesome.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try serving roasted seasonal vegetables that add depth and nutritional value to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw pairs well with the creaminess of the egg salad, providing crispness that enhances every bite.
- Pickle Platter: An assortment of pickles can offer tangy bites that complement the richness of cottage cheese.
- Soup of Choice: Pairing with a light soup, such as tomato basil or vegetable broth, creates a satisfying duo.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: For something more indulgent, serve alongside crispy grilled cheese sandwiches for comfort food lovers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Using overcooked eggs: Overcooking can make eggs rubbery. Stick to the recommended boiling time for tender, creamy yolks.
- Skipping seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to a bland salad. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
- Not chilling the salad: Serving the egg salad immediately might not allow flavors to meld. Chill for at least 30 minutes for better taste.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality cottage cheese or mayonnaise can affect flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Not customizing: Sticking strictly to the recipe can limit creativity. Feel free to add other ingredients or spices that suit your taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days for best freshness.
Freezing Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as it can alter texture.
- If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month.
Reheating Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C). Heat covered for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding the Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad:
How do I make my egg salad creamier?
Adding more cottage cheese or a touch of Greek yogurt can enhance creaminess without adding too many calories.
Can I use other herbs in my Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?
Absolutely! Fresh dill, parsley, or chives can add unique flavors and brighten your dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This egg salad stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just keep it refrigerated.
What can I serve with my Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?
It pairs wonderfully with whole-grain bread, lettuce wraps, or even on top of a green salad.
Final Thoughts
The Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is not only healthy but also versatile and delicious. It’s perfect for any meal of the day or as a quick snack. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for added flair. Give this recipe a try—you may find it becomes a staple in your kitchen!
Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x
Description
Discover a healthier twist on the classic egg salad with this Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad. This recipe combines creamy cottage cheese with hard-boiled eggs, fresh scallions, and a touch of Dijon mustard to create a delightful dish that’s perfect for any time of day. With its tangy flavor and protein-packed ingredients, this egg salad is not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it on toast, in wraps, or as a dip with crackers—it’s an easy, satisfying option for breakfast, lunch, or brunch. Whip it up in just 16 minutes for a quick meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup cottage cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 5–6 tablespoons scallions (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1½ teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
- ⅓ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ⅓ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Boil the eggs in a small pot covered with water for 7-8 minutes once boiling.
- Cool the boiled eggs in ice water for about 2 minutes; then peel and chop them.
- In a bowl, mash the yolks from 4 eggs with cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard until creamy.
- Add chopped egg whites, scallions, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to the mixture; stir until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
