Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

This Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! is a delightful and nutritious twist on the classic egg salad. By incorporating creamy cottage cheese, I elevate the taste while providing a protein-packed meal option. With 35 grams of protein in each serving, this dish is perfect for lunch or a healthy snack. The blend of flavors pairs beautifully on toasted sourdough with fresh avocado, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High-Protein Delight: Each serving contains an impressive 35 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for a filling meal.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 17 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute meal prep.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a sandwich, on crackers, or even atop a salad for different meal experiences.
• Flavorful without Mayo: The creamy cottage cheese adds richness without the need for mayonnaise, making it lighter and healthier.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or spices to make it truly your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious egg salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools can streamline the cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot
• Air fryer (optional)
• Ice bath container
• Fork
• Medium bowl
• Toaster

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot: Necessary for boiling eggs; it’s key to achieving perfectly cooked eggs.
• Ice bath container: Stops the cooking process quickly to ensure the eggs do not overcook.
• Fork: Ideal for mashing eggs and mixing ingredients smoothly.

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Ingredients

For the Egg Salad

• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup cottage cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• Pinch of black pepper
• Pinch of smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish or diced pickles

For Serving

• 2 slices sourdough bread
• ½ avocado, sliced

How to Make Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

Step 1: Boil the Eggs

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil over medium heat.
2. Carefully add the eggs and boil them for exactly 9 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare an Ice Bath

1. While the eggs are boiling, fill a bowl with ice water.
2. Once the timer goes off, immediately transfer the boiled eggs into the ice bath to halt cooking.

Step 3: Peel and Mash Eggs

1. After the eggs have cooled down, peel them under running water if necessary to make it easier.
2. In a medium bowl, mash the peeled eggs using a fork until they reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Mix in Cottage Cheese and Seasonings

1. Add cottage cheese, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to the mashed eggs.
2. If using, fold in sweet pickle relish or diced pickles for added flavor.

Step 5: Toast Bread and Assemble Sandwiches

1. Toast the slices of sourdough bread until golden brown.
2. Place sliced avocado on each piece of toast, then generously spoon the egg salad mixture on top.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! Perfect as a quick lunch or snack option!

How to Serve Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

Egg salad with cottage cheese is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty snack, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On Toast

• Use toasted sourdough for a crunchy base that complements the creamy egg salad.
• Top with fresh herbs like dill or chives for added flavor.

In a Wrap

• Spread the egg salad on a whole-wheat tortilla.
• Add fresh spinach and sliced tomatoes for a refreshing twist.

As a Salad

• Serve the egg salad over mixed greens.
• Drizzle with balsamic vinegar for an extra zing.

With Crackers

• Pair the egg salad with whole-grain crackers.
• This makes for an easy appetizer or snack option.

Stuffed Avocado

• Scoop out half of an avocado and fill it with egg salad.
• A healthy and satisfying way to enjoy your meal!

How to Perfect Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

Creating the perfect egg salad with cottage cheese requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality cottage cheese enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mash the eggs to maintain some texture; you want it creamy but not mushy.
• Season Well: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and paprika according to your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

Pairing side dishes with your egg salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a light side.
2. Vegetable Sticks: Carrots, celery, and bell peppers served with hummus make for a crunchy addition.
3. Fruit Salad: A colorful blend of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness to your plate.
4. Potato Chips: Crispy chips provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy salad.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes complements the dish well.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned lightly bring warmth and depth to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an egg salad can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the eggs: Overcooked eggs can become rubbery and lose their creamy texture. Stick to boiling them for 9 minutes or using the air fryer method for optimal results.
• Not cooling the eggs properly: Skipping the ice bath can lead to overcooked eggs. Always transfer them immediately to an ice bath after boiling to stop the cooking process.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland flavors. Don’t skip the salt, pepper, and smoked paprika; these enhance the overall taste of your salad.
• Using low-quality cottage cheese: The quality of cottage cheese impacts the dish’s creaminess. Choose a good brand that is fresh and creamy for the best flavor.
• Forgetting optional ingredients: Leaving out sweet pickle relish or diced pickles removes a hint of tang. These ingredients add depth, so include them based on your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

• Not recommended for freezing as it may alter texture when thawed.

Reheating Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! healthier than traditional egg salad?

This recipe replaces mayonnaise with cottage cheese, reducing calories and increasing protein content while keeping it creamy and satisfying.

Can I customize my Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like celery or onion, or swap in different herbs for extra flavor.

How long does Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! last in the fridge?

It lasts for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I meal prep this egg salad?

Yes! This egg salad is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches or snacks.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely! It’s nutritious and packed with protein, making it a great choice for kids’ lunches or snacks.

Final Thoughts

This Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it an appealing option for lunch or a snack. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste. Give this healthy recipe a try—you might just find your new go-to egg salad!