Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Recipe

Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a fresh and healthy twist on the classic egg salad. This lightened-up version swaps mayonnaise for creamy cottage cheese, creating a tangy and protein-packed dish that’s just as delicious and satisfying. The result is a creamy, flavorful salad that pairs perfectly with toast, crackers, or as a filling for a sandwich or wrap. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a snack, or a nutritious addition to your meal plan, this egg salad is a great option. It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy Twist: By using cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise, this egg salad becomes lower in calories and higher in protein without sacrificing flavor.
2. Quick and Easy: With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
3. Versatile: Serve it on toast, in a sandwich, as a wrap, or with veggies and crackers for dipping. It’s easy to adapt to your preferences.
4. Light and Fresh: The cottage cheese adds a tangy, creamy texture that lightens up the egg salad while still providing richness.
5. Packed with Protein: Both eggs and cottage cheese are excellent sources of protein, making this salad a filling and satisfying option.

Ingredients

• 6 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup cottage cheese
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (optional)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can mix in finely chopped celery, bell peppers, or cucumbers for added crunch and freshness.
• Creamier Option: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a little more cottage cheese or mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Herb Variation: Feel free to use any herbs you prefer, such as parsley, chives, or tarragon, to add your personal touch to the flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Eggs

Start by boiling the eggs. Place them in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once the water boils, reduce the heat and simmer for 9-12 minutes. After cooking, transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool, then peel and chop them into small pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped hard-boiled eggs, cottage cheese, Dijon mustard (if using), lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

Once mixed, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh dill, if desired. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Perfect Boiled Eggs: To ensure your eggs are perfectly boiled, place them in cold water, bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 9-12 minutes. Immediately place them in ice water to stop the cooking process.
• Texture Preference: If you prefer a chunkier egg salad, chop the eggs into larger pieces. For a smoother texture, mash the eggs slightly as you mix them with the cottage cheese.
• Make Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together, and it will be ready to enjoy when you are.

How to Serve

• On Toast: Spread this egg salad on whole-grain toast or a toasted bagel for a satisfying meal.
• In a Wrap or Sandwich: Use the egg salad as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. Add lettuce or spinach for extra crunch.
• With Crackers: Serve this egg salad as a dip with crackers or fresh vegetable sticks, such as cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers.
• As a Side Salad: Serve it as a side dish with fresh salad greens or roasted vegetables for a light meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover egg salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, and it can be enjoyed chilled.

Freezing

It’s not recommended to freeze this egg salad as cottage cheese can change in texture when frozen. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

Since this salad is served cold, no reheating is necessary. Simply take it out of the fridge and enjoy it straight from the container or on your preferred dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use non-fat cottage cheese?

Yes! You can use non-fat or low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter version of this recipe. It will still provide a creamy texture but with fewer calories.

2. Can I use mayonnaise instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, you can swap the cottage cheese with mayonnaise if you prefer the traditional egg salad flavor. However, using cottage cheese adds extra protein and a lighter, tangy taste.

3. How do I make sure the eggs are perfectly boiled?

Place eggs in cold water, bring them to a boil, then simmer for 9-12 minutes. After cooking, transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process, ensuring the yolks are fully set.

4. Can I add more ingredients to the egg salad?

Definitely! Feel free to add chopped celery, pickles, or even some diced avocado for extra flavor and texture.

5. Is this egg salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This egg salad stores well in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just keep it in an airtight container.

6. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Yes! Greek yogurt can replace cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture. It will also add a slight tangy flavor and extra protein.

7. How can I make the egg salad spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

8. Can I use different herbs?

Yes! You can use herbs like parsley, chives, or tarragon to customize the flavor of your egg salad.

9. Can I serve this egg salad warm?

Egg salad is traditionally served cold, but if you prefer a warm version, you can serve it on warm toast or as a filling in a hot sandwich.

10. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes! This egg salad is low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great option for low-carb or keto diets.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a refreshing and healthy take on the classic egg salad. With its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and high protein content, it’s the perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal that’s light yet filling. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, a snack, or as part of a larger meal, this recipe is quick, easy, and customizable to suit your taste. Enjoy it on toast, in a wrap, or with crackers—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious dish!

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