Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional egg salad, offering a creamy, tangy flavor while being low in fat. Ideal for breakfast, lunch, brunch, or even as a satisfying snack, this recipe stands out with its use of cottage cheese, making it not just tasty but also nutritious. The blend of ingredients creates a wonderful balance that will please anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Made with cottage cheese instead of heavy mayonnaise, this salad is lower in calories yet high in protein.
• Quick and Easy: With only 16 minutes of prep time, you can whip this dish up in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on toast, in a wrap, or simply on its own. It’s perfect for any meal!
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of scallions and Dijon mustard adds a delightful zing that elevates the taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools on hand to simplify your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Small pot: Essential for boiling eggs perfectly without fuss.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly for an even flavor.
• Fork: Great for mashing the dressing mixture to achieve the desired creaminess.

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.

Main 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Step 1: Boil the Eggs

Place the eggs in a small pot and add enough water to cover them completely. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, turn off the heat and let the eggs sit covered for 7-8 minutes. This method ensures perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs.

Step 2: Cool the Eggs

After boiling, strain the hot water from the pot. Immerse the eggs in very cold water for about 2 minutes; adding ice cubes can help speed up cooling. After 30 seconds, replace the water or add more ice cubes to keep it cold. Drain again before wiping and peeling each egg.

Step 3: Chop the Eggs

Cut each boiled egg in half lengthwise. Remove yolks from four halves and place them into a shallow bowl. Finely chop the remaining whole eggs along with their whites and set aside for mixing later.

Step 4: Make Dressing Mixture

In your bowl with egg yolks, combine two tablespoons of cottage cheese with mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Use a fork to mash everything together until you get a thick and creamy mixture; it doesn’t have to be completely smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

In a larger mixing bowl, combine chopped eggs with the remaining cottage cheese, scallions, creamy dressing mixture, salt, pepper, and most of the red pepper flakes. Stir until everything is well combined; adjust seasoning if necessary. Before serving, sprinkle any leftover red pepper flakes on top for added flavor and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. For better results let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

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 meal preferences. Enjoy it as a light lunch, a tasty snack, or as part of a brunch spread.

On Bread or Toast

• Use fresh bread or toasted slices for a satisfying sandwich. Whole grain or sourdough works well for added flavor and texture.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a low-carb option, serve the egg salad in large lettuce leaves. This adds crunch and makes for a refreshing bite.

With Crackers

• Pair the salad with your favorite crackers for an easy snack. Choose whole-grain or seed-based crackers for extra nutrition.

As A Dip

• Serve the egg salad as a dip with fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips. This adds color and crunch to your plate.

Stuffed Avocados

• Scoop some of the egg salad into halved avocados for a creamy, filling dish. Avocados add healthy fats and make the presentation stunning.

On A Bed of Greens

• Serve the egg salad over mixed greens or spinach for a light meal. Drizzle with lemon juice or olive oil for added flavor.

How to Perfect Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

To achieve the perfect Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad, follow these tips that enhance flavor and texture while keeping it healthy.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh scallions and high-quality cottage cheese will elevate the taste of your egg salad.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your preference.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the egg salad to chill in the fridge enhances flavors and improves texture.
• Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley can bring new flavors to your egg salad.
• Mash yolks well: Ensure that you mash the yolks thoroughly with cottage cheese to create a creamy base.
• Try different mustards: Experimenting with different types of mustard can give your salad unique twists.

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 delightful options that complement its creamy texture perfectly.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and freshness.
2. Vegetable Sticks: Crunchy carrot, celery, and cucumber sticks provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Pickles: Tangy pickles offer a nice acidity that balances the creaminess of the salad.
4. Potato Chips: Crispy chips add crunch; opt for baked versions for a healthier choice.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies provides protein and fiber alongside your egg salad.
6. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds texture; choose a lighter version made with yogurt instead of mayo.
7. Bread Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for scooping up the egg salad; consider whole grain options.
8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Warm roasted sweet potatoes offer sweetness and balance out flavors nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad can be straightforward, but some common mistakes can affect the final taste and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the cooling step: Not cooling the eggs properly can lead to overcooked yolks and an unpleasant texture. Always immerse boiled eggs in cold water after cooking.
• Not seasoning enough: Failing to season the salad adequately can make it bland. Be sure to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes before serving.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Low-quality cottage cheese or mayonnaise can impact flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality products for the best taste.
• Overmixing the dressing: Overmixing can make the salad too runny. Mix just enough to combine ingredients while keeping some texture.
• Ignoring resting time: Skipping refrigeration time can prevent the flavors from developing fully. Allow at least 30 minutes in the fridge before serving for a better taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the salad refrigerated at all times.

Freezing Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month but expect changes in consistency when thawed.

Reheating Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat while stirring frequently; avoid letting it boil.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this a healthy version of egg salad?

This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad replaces traditional mayonnaise with cottage cheese, reducing fat and adding protein while maintaining creaminess.

Can I customize my Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or celery for extra crunch and flavor. Herbs like dill or parsley also make great additions.

How can I serve Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

You can enjoy this salad on whole-grain bread, lettuce wraps, or even as a dip with vegetables or crackers.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This egg salad keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for meal prepping healthy lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is not only delicious but also versatile, making it an excellent option for breakfast, lunch, or snacks. With its creamy texture and customizable flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try and feel free to experiment with your favorite mix-ins!

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Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

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This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a refreshing, healthy take on the classic dish. By replacing heavy mayonnaise with creamy cottage cheese, this recipe not only reduces calories but also packs in protein, making it an ideal option for those seeking a nutritious meal. With a delightful blend of scallions and Dijon mustard, each bite bursts with flavor. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even as a satisfying snack, this salad is incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it on toast, in lettuce wraps, or simply by the spoonful, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Quick to prepare and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, this egg salad is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meal prep game.

• Total Time: 26 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ⅔ cup cottage cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 5–6 tablespoons finely chopped scallions
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1½ teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
• ⅓ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ⅓ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Boil the eggs: Place eggs in a small pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, turn off the heat and let them sit covered for 7-8 minutes.
2. Cool the eggs: Strain hot water and immerse eggs in cold water with ice cubes for about 2 minutes.
3. Chop the eggs: Halve the boiled eggs lengthwise; remove yolks from four halves and chop remaining whole eggs along with whites.
4. Make dressing: In a bowl with yolks, combine cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard; mash until creamy.
5. Assemble salad: Combine chopped eggs, remaining cottage cheese, scallions, dressing mixture, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a larger bowl; mix well.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 16 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 210mg

Keywords: Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Customize by adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or fresh herbs such as dill or parsley.