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There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables mingling with creamy goodness in a Classic Egg Salad. Recently, I found myself in need of a quick meal that wasn’t just another boring sandwich. Enter this gem from my recipe repertoire, a perfect blend of hard-boiled eggs whipped together with cottage cheese and a tangy kick of mustard. The aroma of lemon and herbs fills the kitchen, delivering a wave of nostalgia for summer picnics and family gatherings.

Best of all, this egg salad is not only customizable to fit various tastes—with options like substituting mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or avocado—but it also packs a protein punch that keeps you feeling full and energized. Ready in just five minutes, it’s the ideal solution to weeknight cooking fatigue, effortlessly turning any ordinary day into something special. So grab your ingredients and let’s whip up a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious!

Why is Classic Egg Salad a Must-Try?

Quick and Convenient: Whipping up a Classic Egg Salad takes just five minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy days.

Protein-Packed: Enjoy a filling meal without guilt, as this dish is high in protein, satisfying your hunger cravings.

Customizable Fun: Change up the flavors with various swaps like Greek yogurt or avocado for a fresh twist.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a picnic or a family gathering, this egg salad is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Fresh and Flavorful: The crunch of veggies combined with creamy textures creates a dish that’s both enjoyable and nostalgic.

This quick recipe is not just easy but also offers a nutritious option for those tired of fast food. Try it on a slice of whole grain bread or in a lettuce wrap for an extra touch!

Classic Egg Salad Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for a delicious Classic Egg Salad!

For the Salad

Hard-boiled Eggs – Provides protein and creaminess; use fresh eggs for the best flavor.
Cottage Cheese – Adds a lighter creaminess; substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Mayonnaise – Enhances creaminess; can be omitted or replaced with Greek yogurt for a mayo-free option.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy kick; swap it with yellow or honey mustard for different flavor notes.
Celery – Provides crunch and freshness; cut it finely for a better texture.
Red Onion/Shallot – Adds sharpness; substitute with green onions for a milder version.
Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors; freshly squeezed juice is always best.
Chives/Green Onions – Offers herbal freshness; feel free to swap with your favorite herbs.
Salt and Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to your taste.

This Classic Egg Salad is not only customizable, but it’s sure to satisfy with its rich textures and vibrant flavors!

How to Make Classic Egg Salad

Prep Eggs: Start by chopping hard-boiled eggs into small pieces and placing them in a mixing bowl. The egg chunks should be just the right size to create a nice, creamy texture without becoming mushy.
Combine Creamy Ingredients: Add the cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard to the bowl with the eggs. Mix everything gently to combine; you want a creamy consistency without losing the lovely texture of the eggs.
Add Crunch: Stir in the chopped celery, red onion (or shallot), lemon juice, and chives until all the ingredients are evenly blended but still retain some texture. This step gives your egg salad that delightful crunch!
Season: Taste your mixture and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. This is your chance to tailor the flavors to your liking—don’t shy away from seasoning!
Serve or Chill: Enjoy immediately as a dip or spread, or, for better flavor, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The flavors can develop beautifully when allowed to sit!

Optional: Serve with fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Classic Egg Salad Variations

Feel free to shake things up and make this classic recipe uniquely yours with some delightful twists!

Greek Yogurt: Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to make it healthier and add a tangy taste.
Avocado: Blend in ripe avocado instead of cottage cheese for a creamy, buttery texture and healthy fats.
Diabetic-Friendly: Replace traditional mustard with a no-calorie alternative to keep flavors bold without added sugars.
Crunchy Add-Ins: Toss in chopped bell peppers or diced pickles for extra crunch and a burst of flavor.
Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs such as dill or cilantro for a refreshing aromatic boost.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a mouthwatering heat that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in some toasted walnuts or slivered almonds for unexpected crunch and depth.
Sour Cream Kick: Replace cottage cheese with sour cream for a rich, tangy twist that pairs perfectly with eggs.

There’s no wrong way to enjoy your Classic Egg Salad—let these variations inspire you to create your own delicious masterpiece!

What to Serve with Classic Egg Salad?

There’s nothing quite like a delightful meal supported by wholesome sides that elevate your dining experience.

Whole Grain Bread: This sturdy base adds fiber and complements the creaminess of the egg salad beautifully, creating a satisfying bite.
Crispy Lettuce Wraps: For a fresh and crunchy alternative, use crisp romaine or butter lettuce as a wrap, allowing the flavors to shine through while keeping it light.
Fresh Vegetable Sticks: Carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provide a vibrant, crunchy counterpoint, perfect for dipping or pairing alongside the egg salad.
Potato Chips: The saltiness and crunch of classic potato chips contrast the creamy egg salad, making it a fun snack that keeps you coming back for more.
Corn Salad: A bright corn salad with tomatoes and fresh herbs brings a touch of sweetness and color to your table, enhancing the overall experience.
Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea complements the rich flavors, making your meal feel even more like a picnic in summer.
Fruit Salad: A bowl of mixed fresh fruits can cleanse the palate and add a burst of refreshment to every bite of egg salad.
Pickles: Tangy pickles add zest, providing a pleasantly sharp contrast that brightens the entire meal.
Deviled Eggs: Serving deviled eggs alongside egg salad doubles the egg goodness, making for a themed, cohesive experience that feels festive.

Enjoy these pairings as a testament to the versatile nature of your Classic Egg Salad, transforming a simple dish into a delightful feast!

Storage Tips for Classic Egg Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover Classic Egg Salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it stays fresh and tasty.

Freezer: For best quality, avoid freezing egg salad; the texture can become watery and grainy after thawing.

Reheating: If serving chilled, allow the salad to come to room temperature before enjoying. Stir gently for best flavor distribution.

Serving Size: Consider dividing portions into smaller containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week!

Expert Tips for Classic Egg Salad

Ingredient Freshness: Always use fresh, high-quality eggs and dairy for the best flavor in your Classic Egg Salad. Stale ingredients dull the taste.
Texture Matters: Mix gently to keep the egg chunks intact, giving a pleasing texture instead of a mushy blend.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like dill or cilantro for a unique twist. Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can lead to a pasty egg salad. Stir just enough to combine ingredients while maintaining structure.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, but keep in mind that each substitution changes the overall creaminess and flavor dynamics.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Egg Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify mealtime! You can chop the hard-boiled eggs and mix the creamy ingredients (cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, add the crunchy elements (celery, onion, lemon juice, and chives) just before enjoying to keep that delightful texture crisp. Not only does this save time on hectic days, but the flavors meld beautifully overnight, ensuring your Classic Egg Salad is just as delicious, ready to impress at any meal!

Classic Egg Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right eggs for my Classic Egg Salad?
Absolutely! Use fresh eggs for the best flavor and texture. Look for eggs that have a clean, uncracked shell and a sell-by date that’s still current. When you crack them open, the yolk should sit high and be brightly colored—this indicates freshness.

How can I store leftover Classic Egg Salad?
To keep your Classic Egg Salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent any absorption of other odors in the fridge, and keep it cold—ideally below 40°F (4°C).

Can I freeze Classic Egg Salad?
Very! However, I advise against it. Freezing can alter the texture, making the egg salad watery and grainy upon thawing. If you want a prepped meal that freezes well, consider freezing the hard-boiled eggs separately, and mix them with the other ingredients once thawed for the best results.

What if my egg salad turns out too runny?
Don’t worry—this can happen! If your Classic Egg Salad is too runny, you can thicken it by adding more solid ingredients like chopped finely grated carrots, avocado, or a bit more cottage cheese. Additionally, letting it sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes can allow it to firm up as the ingredients meld together.

Is Classic Egg Salad safe for pets?
While eggs are generally safe for dogs in moderation, be cautious with any added ingredients. Ingredients like onions (found in red onion or shallots) can be toxic to pets—so it’s best to keep this recipe to human enjoyment only!

Can I make the egg salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing your Classic Egg Salad a few hours in advance can enhance the flavors as they meld together. Simply mix according to the recipe and chill in the fridge in an airtight container until ready to serve. You can enjoy it fresh for about 2 days after preparation!