Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional egg salad. With its creamy texture and tangy flavor, it’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a tasty snack. This healthy version uses cottage cheese to create a lighter dish that still satisfies your cravings. Enjoy it on toast, in a wrap, or even straight from the bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Made with cottage cheese, this salad is lower in fat than traditional versions but full of flavor.
• Quick Preparation: With just 16 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Whether served at brunch or as a quick lunch option, it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Protein-Packed: Each serving is rich in protein, making it a great choice for those looking to fuel their day healthily.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the seasoning and ingredients to suit your taste preferences for endless variations.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad, you’ll need a few basic tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Small pot
• Strainer
• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Small pot: Ideal for boiling eggs evenly without overcrowding them.
• Strainer: Helps quickly cool the eggs by allowing water to drain away efficiently.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without mess.
• Fork: Perfect for mashing the egg yolks and mixing the dressing smoothly.

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.

Dairy Ingredients

• ⅔ cup cottage cheese

Eggs

• 6 large eggs

Vegetables

• 5-6 tablespoons scallions/spring onion (finely chopped)

Condiments

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1½ teaspoons Dijon-style mustard (or to taste)

Seasonings

• 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 the cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard. Mash with a fork until the mixture is thick and creamy (it doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth).

Step 5: Assemble

To a mixing bowl add the chopped eggs, remaining cottage cheese, scallions, creamy dressing, salt and pepper, and most of the pepper flakes. Stir until thoroughly combined and adjust seasoning as needed. Sprinkle remaining pepper flakes on top. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving if possible.

How to Serve Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack, these serving ideas will elevate your meal.

On Toast

• Use whole-grain or sourdough bread for a hearty base.
• Spread the egg salad on toasted bread for a crunchy texture.

In a Wrap

• Roll it up in a tortilla with fresh veggies like spinach and tomatoes.
• This makes for a quick and portable lunch option.

With Crackers

• Serve the egg salad with whole grain or seed crackers.
• It adds a satisfying crunch and is perfect for snacking.

Over Salad Greens

• Spoon the egg salad over mixed greens for a light meal.
• Top with cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices for added freshness.

As a Stuffed Avocado

• Halve an avocado and fill it with the cottage cheese egg salad.
• This adds healthy fats and makes for an elegant presentation.

How to Perfect Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

To make your Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad even better, consider these tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh scallions and quality mayonnaise will elevate the taste.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste and tweak salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to match your preference.
• Chill before serving – Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with herbs – Fresh dill or chives can add an aromatic touch to your egg salad.

Best Side Dishes for Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing mix of greens dressed lightly complements the creamy egg salad.
2. Vegetable Sticks – Carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks provide a crunchy contrast that is healthy and fun to eat.
3. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa dish adds texture and nutty flavor while keeping it nutritious.
4. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad brings sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the egg salad.
5. Pickles or Olives – A side of pickles or olives offers a tangy bite that pairs well with creamy dishes.
6. Sweet Potato Wedges – Baked sweet potato wedges provide natural sweetness and are great finger food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad can be a breeze, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Overcooking eggs: Boiling the eggs for too long can make them rubbery. Stick to the recommended time for perfect hard-boiled eggs.
• Skipping the cooling step: Not cooling the eggs properly can cause them to be hard to peel. Always immerse them in cold water after boiling.
• Ignoring seasoning: A bland salad can ruin the dish. Taste and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to enhance flavors.
• Not chopping eggs finely enough: Large egg pieces can affect the salad’s creaminess. Aim for small, even pieces for better texture.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise taste. Opt for fresh scallions and good-quality cottage cheese and mayonnaise.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Warm in short intervals (15-30 seconds) on low power to prevent overheating.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat while stirring until warmed; avoid boiling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad.

Can I customize my Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

Yes! You can add ingredients like diced celery, bell peppers, or even spices like dill or paprika for extra flavor.

How do I make a vegan version of Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

Replace cottage cheese with tofu or chickpea mash and use vegan mayo instead of regular mayo.

What should I serve with Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

This salad pairs well with whole grain bread, crackers, or as a topping on a green salad for added protein.

Can I meal prep Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a delightful twist on a classic dish. It’s creamy, packed with protein, and versatile enough for any meal of the day. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices to make it your own!