Looking for a light and nutritious twist on the classic egg salad? Look no further than this Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad. Combining creamy cottage cheese with hard-boiled eggs, this dish offers a fresh and protein-packed alternative to traditional egg salad. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the result is a deliciously satisfying salad that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or simply served on its own.
What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. The tangy cottage cheese adds a richness to the egg salad, while still being lighter than mayonnaise-based versions. It’s a great option for those looking to reduce calories but still enjoy the creamy texture and taste of a traditional egg salad. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or in need of a quick lunch, this Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is both healthy and delicious.
In addition, it’s a fantastic dish to serve at picnics, potlucks, or as a filling for a wholesome sandwich. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this simple, yet flavorful egg salad ready in no time. Let’s dive into how you can make this quick and tasty recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Light and Healthy
With cottage cheese replacing the traditional mayonnaise, this egg salad is lower in calories and offers a healthier alternative while still being creamy and delicious.
2. Packed with Protein
The combination of eggs and cottage cheese provides a solid amount of protein, making this egg salad not only tasty but also filling and nourishing.
3. Quick and Easy
This recipe is perfect for busy days as it takes just a few minutes to prepare. Simply mix the ingredients, and you’re ready to go!
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
This egg salad stores well in the refrigerator for several days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
5. Customizable
Feel free to add any extra ingredients or spices that you enjoy, such as mustard, herbs, or vegetables. The recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste.
Ingredients
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Cottage cheese
- Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as dill or chives)
Variations
- Add Vegetables: For added crunch and nutrition, mix in finely chopped celery, onions, or bell peppers.
- Spicy Kick: Add a bit of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Use fresh dill, parsley, or chives to enhance the flavor and freshness of the salad.
- Avocado Twist: Add diced avocado for a creamy texture and extra healthy fats.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Eggs
Boil the eggs for about 10 minutes until fully cooked. Once done, peel them and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped eggs and cottage cheese. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Add the Seasoning
Add Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. If you like, add chopped fresh herbs or any other spices to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give your egg salad a taste. If needed, adjust the seasoning with more mustard, salt, or pepper. Feel free to add a little more cottage cheese if you prefer a creamier texture.
Step 5: Serve
Once everything is mixed well, the egg salad is ready to be served. Enjoy it in a sandwich, wrap, or on top of a salad.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- For creamier texture, you can add a bit more cottage cheese or a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
- Customize your flavor profile: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs or add-ins like diced pickles or olives.
- Ensure eggs are well-cooked: For the perfect texture, make sure your eggs are hard-boiled but not overcooked, as that can affect the flavor.
How to Serve
This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a filling for a sandwich or wrap, or enjoy it on a bed of lettuce or mixed greens for a lighter meal. You can also serve it alongside fresh veggies or whole-grain crackers for a complete snack or lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover egg salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3-4 days. The flavors may even improve after sitting for a few hours or overnight!
Freezing
This egg salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the texture of the cottage cheese and eggs after thawing.
Reheating
You don’t need to reheat this egg salad as it’s served cold, making it a convenient and easy meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese if you prefer a lighter version of this egg salad. The taste and texture will still be delicious.
2. Can I add mayonnaise instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with mayonnaise if you prefer a more traditional egg salad. However, using cottage cheese gives the salad a lighter, more protein-packed option.
3. Can I make this egg salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This egg salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. It’s perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.
4. Can I add bacon to this egg salad?
Yes! Crumbled bacon would be a fantastic addition to add some smoky flavor and crunch.
5. Can I use any type of mustard?
While Dijon mustard is recommended for its mild tang, you can also use yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard if that’s your preference.
6. How long should I boil the eggs?
Boil the eggs for 10 minutes to get hard-boiled eggs with fully set yolks. Overcooking may lead to a greenish hue around the yolks.
7. Can I use other cheeses besides cottage cheese?
While cottage cheese provides a unique texture, you can use ricotta cheese as an alternative. However, cottage cheese gives it a special creaminess that works perfectly in this recipe.
8. How can I add more flavor to this egg salad?
To add more flavor, try adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or a dash of vinegar or lemon juice for a bit of tang.
9. Can I serve this on a bed of greens?
Yes, this egg salad is delicious when served over a bed of fresh greens, such as spinach, arugula, or mixed lettuce.
10. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley add a burst of fresh flavor and brighten up the salad.
Conclusion
This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any time of the day. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a satisfying dish that’s lower in calories but full of protein and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a sandwich filling, or a simple snack, this egg salad will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite sides, and feel free to get creative with your add-ins!
PrintSimple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a fresh and creamy twist on the classic egg salad. With protein-packed eggs and the smooth texture of cottage cheese, this dish makes for a nutritious and satisfying lunch or snack. Quick to prepare and full of flavor!
Ingredients
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6 large eggs, hard boiled and chopped
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1/2 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
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1 teaspoon mustard (optional)
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1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion (optional)
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1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley or dill (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Peel the hard-boiled eggs and chop them into small pieces.
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In a medium bowl, combine the chopped eggs and cottage cheese.
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Add mayonnaise and mustard, if using, and stir to combine.
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Add the chopped red onion, parsley or dill (if desired), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Enjoy on its own, as a sandwich, or on top of a bed of greens.
Notes
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You can adjust the amount of cottage cheese to your preference for creaminess.
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For a tangier flavor, increase the mustard or add a squeeze of lemon juice.
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This salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (if eggs are pre-boiled)
- Category: Salad, Lunch, Snack
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: egg salad, cottage cheese, high-protein salad, creamy egg salad, quick lunch, easy salad recipe