Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

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by eva

This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a delightful twist on the classic egg salad. It’s creamy, tangy, and loaded with flavor, making it a perfect choice for breakfast, lunch, brunch, or as a satisfying snack. With its healthy ingredients and easy preparation, this salad stands out as a nutritious option that everyone will love.

Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier Alternative: This egg salad replaces traditional mayonnaise with cottage cheese, cutting down on fat while boosting protein.
  • Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 16 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a healthy meal fast.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it on toast, in wraps, or as a dip with veggies for endless serving options.
  • Flavorful and Satisfying: With the addition of scallions and spices, this salad packs a punch of flavor you won’t want to miss.
  • Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare the egg salad in advance to save time during your hectic week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this simple cottage cheese egg salad even easier. Here’s what you need to gather before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Small pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Shallow bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Small pot: Perfect for boiling eggs quickly and efficiently.
  • Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space to combine all ingredients without spills.
  • Shallow bowl: Ideal for mashing egg yolks smoothly with other ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • ⅔ cup cottage cheese (thick and creamy preferred)
  • 6 large eggs
  • 5–6 tablespoons scallions/spring onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard (or to taste)
  • ⅓ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ⅓ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
  • ⅓ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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How to Make Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Step 1: Boil the Eggs

Place the eggs in a small pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil.
Turn off the heat and let the eggs sit in the covered pot for 7–8 minutes.

Step 2: Cool the Eggs

Strain the hot water and immediately immerse the eggs in very cold water.
Add ice cubes if possible. After about 30 seconds, add more ice cubes or replace the water to ensure it stays cold. Let the eggs cool for 2 minutes.
Peel the eggs and pat them dry.

Step 3: Chop the Eggs

Cut each egg in half lengthwise. Remove the egg yolks from 4 eggs and place them in a shallow bowl.
Finely chop the remaining 2 whole eggs and the egg whites from the halved eggs. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In the shallow bowl, mash the 4 egg yolks with 2 tablespoons of cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until thick and creamy (it doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth).

Step 5: Assemble the Egg Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped eggs, remaining cottage cheese, scallions, creamy dressing, salt, black pepper, and most of the red pepper flakes.
Mix thoroughly until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste. Sprinkle remaining red pepper flakes on top for garnish.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the egg salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving if possible to enhance flavors.

How to Serve Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch or as a quick snack, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

On Toast

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

In Lettuce Wraps

  • Scoop the egg salad into crisp lettuce leaves.
  • This low-carb option is refreshing and great for a light meal.

With Crackers

  • Serve alongside your favorite whole grain or seed crackers.
  • Perfect for dipping and enjoying as a snack.

As a Sandwich Filling

  • Layer the salad between slices of bread for a classic sandwich.
  • Add fresh veggies like spinach or tomato for extra flavor and crunch.

With Avocado

  • Top avocado halves with the egg salad for a creamy, nutritious twist.
  • A delightful combination that adds healthy fats to your meal.

As Part of a Platter

  • Include the egg salad in a charcuterie or appetizer platter.
  • Pair it with assorted cheeses, fruits, and nuts for variety.

How to Perfect Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Making the perfect Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

  • Choose quality eggs: Fresh eggs provide better flavor and texture, enhancing your egg salad.
  • Use thick cottage cheese: A thicker cottage cheese keeps the salad creamy without making it runny.
  • Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
  • Chill before serving: Allowing the egg salad to chill enhances flavors and improves texture.
  • Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can add freshness and complexity to the dish.
  • Store properly: Keep your egg salad covered in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to two days.
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Best Side Dishes for Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

  1. Cucumber Slices
    Refreshing and crunchy, cucumber slices complement the creaminess of the egg salad perfectly.
  2. Tomato Salad
    A simple tomato salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar adds brightness and acidity.
  3. Carrot Sticks
    Crunchy carrot sticks provide a satisfying contrast and are great for dipping into the egg salad.
  4. Fruit Skewers
    A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness to balance out savory flavors in your meal.
  5. Sweet Potato Wedges
    Baked sweet potato wedges are hearty and nutritious, making them an excellent side option.
  6. Pickles or Relish
    Tangy pickles or relish offer an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with the egg salad’s creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

  • Using runny cottage cheese: Ensure your cottage cheese is thick and creamy. If it’s too runny, mash it with a fork before adding it to the recipe to prevent a soggy salad.
  • Overcooking the eggs: To achieve perfectly boiled eggs, don’t exceed the 7–8 minutes of sitting time after boiling. Overcooked eggs can become rubbery and affect the salad’s texture.
  • Ignoring seasoning: Taste your egg salad before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and other spices to ensure a balanced flavor. Don’t forget that flavors can intensify after chilling.
  • Chilling for too short a time: Allowing the egg salad to chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors. Rushing this step can result in a less flavorful dish.
  • Forgetting about garnishes: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds not only flavor but also visual appeal. Don’t skip this final touch!
  • Making too much at once: This salad is best fresh and should be consumed within two days. Adjust your quantities accordingly if you’re cooking for one or two.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
  • Make sure to stir before serving if any liquid separates.

Freezing Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

  • Not suitable for freezing: The texture changes upon thawing, making it unappealing.

Reheating Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

  • Oven: Not recommended as it will dry out the salad.
  • Microwave: Use with caution; heat in short intervals, stirring gently to avoid overheating.
  • Stovetop: Best not reheated, as this dish is meant to be served cold.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different herbs in my Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

Yes! Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can add extra freshness and flavor. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

How long does Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad last in the fridge?

This salad will stay fresh in an airtight container for about 2 days. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before serving.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Absolutely! Substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise will give your egg salad a tangy flavor while keeping it healthy and creamy.

What can I serve with Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

This delicious salad pairs well with whole-grain bread, crackers, or on a bed of greens for a light meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare the egg salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember that it’s best enjoyed within two days.

Final Thoughts

The Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a versatile dish perfect for any meal of the day. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this healthy twist on a classic recipe a try!

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Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad


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  • Author: Eva
  • Total Time: 16 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Discover the delightful and nutritious twist of our Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad. This creamy, tangy dish is a healthier alternative to traditional egg salad, featuring protein-rich cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise. Perfect for any meal—whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack—this recipe is ready in just 16 minutes. With the added crunch of scallions and a sprinkle of spices, every bite bursts with flavor. Enjoy it on toast, in lettuce wraps, or as a dip with veggies for versatile serving options. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, so you can prepare it in advance and savor its deliciousness throughout the week.


Ingredients

Scale
  • ⅔ cup cottage cheese (thick and creamy preferred)
  • 6 large eggs
  • 56 tablespoons scallions, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish

Instructions

  1. Boil the eggs in a small pot for 7–8 minutes after bringing water to a boil.
  2. Cool the eggs in cold water with ice cubes for about 2 minutes before peeling.
  3. Chop the eggs; mash yolks from 4 eggs with cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped eggs, remaining cottage cheese, scallions, dressing mixture, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  5. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling/Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 125g
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 350mg

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