This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a delightful twist on the classic dish. With its creamy texture and tangy flavor, this healthy, low-fat version is perfect for breakfast, lunch, brunch, or as a satisfying snack. It’s easy to whip up and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it on toast, with crackers, or just by itself, this egg salad will impress your taste buds!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- Add-Ins
- Flavor Enhancers
- How to Make Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Step 1: Boil Eggs
- Step 2: Cool Eggs
- Step 3: Chop Eggs
- Step 4: Make Dressing Mixture
- Step 5: Assemble Salad
- How to Serve Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- On Whole Wheat Toast
- In Lettuce Wraps
- With Crackers
- As a Stuffed Avocado
- On a Bed of Greens
- In a Wrap
- How to Perfect Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Best Side Dishes for Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Reheating Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I customize my Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?
- How long does Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad last?
- Is Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad healthy?
- Can I use different types of cheese?
- What do I serve with Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Twist: Enjoy all the flavor of traditional egg salad while keeping the calories in check thanks to cottage cheese.
- Quick Preparation: With a total time of only 16 minutes, you can have this dish ready in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on toasted bread, lettuce wraps, or as a dip with fresh veggies.
- High Protein Content: Packed with protein from eggs and cottage cheese, this salad is great for muscle recovery.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for an extra kick.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Small pot
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Strainer
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Small pot: Ideal for boiling eggs quickly and efficiently.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
- Fork: Perfect for mashing the dressing mixture into a creamy consistency.
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
Add-Ins
- 5-6 tablespoons scallions/spring onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Flavor Enhancers
- 1½ teaspoons Dijon-style mustard (or to taste)
- ⅓ teaspoon fine sea salt (and black pepper to taste)
- ⅓ teaspoon red pepper flakes
How to Make Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
Step 1: Boil Eggs
Start by placing the eggs in a small pot. Add enough water to cover them completely. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat but leave the lid on for 7-8 minutes. This method ensures perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs.
Step 2: Cool Eggs
After boiling, strain the hot water from the pot. Immediately immerse the eggs in very cold water for about 2 minutes. Adding ice cubes can help keep the water cold. After cooling, drain off the water and gently peel each egg.
Step 3: Chop Eggs
Cut each boiled egg in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks from four of the eggs and place them in a shallow bowl. Finely chop the remaining two whole eggs along with their whites. Set these aside for later use.
Step 4: Make Dressing Mixture
In the bowl containing egg yolks, add 2 tablespoons of cottage cheese along with mayonnaise and mustard. Use a fork to mash everything together until it’s thick and creamy; it doesn’t need to be completely smooth.
Step 5: Assemble Salad
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped eggs with the remaining cottage cheese, scallions, creamy dressing mixture, salt, pepper, and most of the red pepper flakes. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Finally, sprinkle any remaining red pepper flakes on top before covering and refrigerating for at least 30 minutes before serving if time allows.
Enjoy your Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad!
How to Serve Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quick lunch, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.
On Whole Wheat Toast
- A hearty option that adds fiber and flavor. Simply spread the egg salad on toasted whole wheat bread for a satisfying open-faced sandwich.
In Lettuce Wraps
- For a low-carb alternative, scoop the egg salad into crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a refreshing and healthy bite.
With Crackers
- Pair the egg salad with whole-grain crackers for a crunchy snack. The combination of textures enhances the overall enjoyment.
As a Stuffed Avocado
- Halve an avocado and fill it with the cottage cheese egg salad. This adds healthy fats and makes for an elegant presentation.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve the egg salad over mixed greens for a light meal. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette for extra flavor.
In a Wrap
- Roll the egg salad in a tortilla wrap with some fresh veggies. This makes for an easy and portable lunch option.
How to Perfect Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
To achieve the best results with your Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh eggs and high-quality cottage cheese will enhance flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before serving; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or mustard based on your preference.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the salad for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding diced bell peppers or celery for extra crunch and flavor variation.
- Use Different Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can brighten up the dish and add an aromatic touch.
- Make Ahead: This egg salad keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
Best Side Dishes for Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad can create a more complete meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and balances the savory flavors of the egg salad.
- Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers dipped in hummus provide extra nutrients and texture.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can complement the creamy egg salad while adding protein and fiber.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs nicely with the tangy flavors of the egg salad.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings crunch and acidity that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the salad.
- Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup serves as a comforting side that works well alongside your chilled egg salad.
- Baked Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are perfect for dipping into any leftover dressing from your egg salad.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers brightness that complements the richness of cottage cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad can be straightforward, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them:
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Not cooling the boiled eggs quickly can make them harder to peel. Immerse them in cold water right after boiling for easy peeling.
- Overmixing the Ingredients: Mixing too much can create a mushy texture. Gently stir until combined for a creamy yet chunky salad.
- Not Tasting Before Serving: Failing to taste your salad can lead to unseasoned flavors. Always adjust salt and pepper before serving.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap mayonnaise or cottage cheese can affect flavor. Opt for fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
- Ignoring Storage Tips: Not storing properly can spoil your salad. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep it refrigerated at all times.
Freezing Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- This dish is not suitable for freezing as the texture may change upon thawing.
Reheating Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad that might help you out.
Can I customize my Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?
Yes! You can add ingredients like diced celery, bell peppers, or herbs for extra flavor and crunch.
How long does Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad last?
When stored properly, it will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Is Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad healthy?
Absolutely! It’s lower in fat than traditional egg salad while being high in protein from cottage cheese.
Can I use different types of cheese?
While cottage cheese is recommended for this recipe, you could try ricotta or Greek yogurt for variations on flavor and texture.
What do I serve with Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with whole-grain bread, crackers, or as a filling in lettuce wraps.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is not only a healthier alternative but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it at breakfast, lunch, or as a snack. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients for extra flair!
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Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a refreshing and nutritious twist on a classic dish. Creamy cottage cheese replaces traditional mayonnaise, delivering a deliciously tangy flavor while keeping calories low. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a satisfying snack, this protein-packed salad can be served on whole wheat toast, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or enjoyed with crackers. With just a few simple ingredients found in your kitchen, you’ll whip up this delightful egg salad in no time. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also easy to customize with your favorite herbs or spices for an extra kick. Treat your taste buds to this healthy delight!
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup cottage cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 5–6 tablespoons scallions (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1½ teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
- ⅓ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Boil the eggs: Place eggs in a small pot, cover with water, bring to a boil, turn off heat, and let sit covered for 7-8 minutes.
- Cool the eggs: Strain hot water and immerse eggs in cold water for about 2 minutes. Peel after cooling.
- Chop the eggs: Halve the boiled eggs lengthwise; place yolks from four into a bowl and chop remaining two whole eggs.
- Make the dressing: Mix egg yolks with cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard until creamy.
- Assemble salad: Combine chopped eggs with dressing mixture, scallions, seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and refrigerate before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (approximately 130g)
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
