Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

This egg salad with cottage cheese – no mayo! offers a refreshing twist on the classic dish. It’s perfect for lunch or as a healthy snack, and you can enjoy it on sourdough bread layered with creamy avocado. With its high protein content and delightful flavors, this recipe makes for a nutritious choice that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Protein-Packed Delight: With 35 grams of protein per serving, this egg salad is an excellent choice for those looking to boost their protein intake.
• No Mayo Needed: Enjoy a creamy texture without the heaviness of mayonnaise. The cottage cheese adds richness without excess calories.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 17 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute meals.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on toast, in lettuce wraps, or enjoy it straight from the bowl—perfect for any occasion!
• Flavorful Twist: The addition of smoked paprika and sweet pickle relish elevates the flavor profile, making each bite exciting.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make the best egg salad with cottage cheese, gather your tools ahead of time. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot
• Ice bath container
• Fork
• Medium bowl
• Toaster or air fryer

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot: Necessary for boiling the eggs to perfection.
• Ice bath container: This helps cool the eggs quickly, ensuring they stop cooking right away.
• Fork: Ideal for mashing the eggs smoothly while mixing in the cottage cheese.

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. Once boiling, gently add the eggs and cook for 9 minutes.
3. For an air fryer option, set your air fryer to 270°F and cook the eggs for 12 minutes.

Step 2: Cool and Peel the Eggs

1. Immediately transfer the boiled eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. Allow them to cool before peeling.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Salad Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, mash peeled eggs with a fork until they are crumbly.
2. Add cottage cheese, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika; mix well.
3. If desired, stir in sweet pickle relish or diced pickles for added flavor.

Step 4: Toast and Assemble

1. Toast the sourdough bread slices until golden brown.
2. Top each slice with fresh avocado before adding a generous spoonful of the egg salad mixture on top.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious egg salad with cottage cheese ready in no time! Enjoy this nutritious meal as part of your breakfast or lunch routine!

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

Egg salad with cottage cheese is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying 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 sliced tomatoes or microgreens for added freshness.

In a Lettuce Wrap

• Spoon the egg salad into large romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
• Add shredded carrots or cucumber slices for extra crunch.

With Crackers

• Serve the egg salad alongside whole-grain or seed crackers for dipping.
• This makes for an easy and portable snack.

As a Sandwich

• Spread the egg salad between two slices of your favorite bread, like rye or whole wheat.
• Add spinach or arugula to boost the nutritional value.

On a Salad

• Serve the egg salad on a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad option.
• Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette to enhance the flavors.

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

To achieve the best egg salad with cottage cheese, it’s essential to keep a few tips in mind. These suggestions will help you create the perfect blend of flavors and textures.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and cottage cheese make all the difference in taste and texture.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding different herbs like dill or chives for added flavor.
• Adjust consistency: If you prefer a creamier texture, add more cottage cheese until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Chill before serving: Letting the egg salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

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

Pairing side dishes with your egg salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and contrast to the savory egg salad.
2. Vegetable Sticks: Carrot, celery, and bell pepper sticks provide crunch and freshness while keeping things healthy.
3. Potato Chips: For a classic crunch, serve homemade baked potato chips as an indulgent treat.
4. Pickles: Sour pickles balance out the creaminess of the egg salad, adding tanginess to each bite.
5. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw brings crispness and acidity, enhancing overall flavor profiles.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad made with lemon dressing offers protein and fiber boosts alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making egg salad with cottage cheese, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch for:

• Ignoring egg freshness: Always use fresh eggs for the best flavor and texture. Older eggs can affect the taste and may not peel easily.
• Overcooking the eggs: Boil or air fry the eggs just long enough to avoid a rubbery texture. Follow the timing closely to achieve perfect hard-boiled eggs.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your egg salad properly. A pinch of salt and spices like smoked paprika will elevate the flavor significantly.
• Using low-quality cottage cheese: Choose high-quality cottage cheese for creaminess. A grainy texture won’t blend well in your salad.
• Not adding acidity: Incorporate something tangy, like sweet pickle relish, to balance flavors. This adds dimension and makes each bite interesting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store egg salad with cottage cheese in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

• It’s best not to freeze this egg salad as cottage cheese can change texture when thawed.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month.

Reheating Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread egg salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring often to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

What can I serve with Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!?

This dish pairs wonderfully with whole-grain crackers, lettuce wraps, or fresh veggies for dipping.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like chopped celery, onion, or herbs for added flavor and crunch.

How do I know when my eggs are perfectly boiled?

Aim for 9 minutes of boiling or 12 minutes in an air fryer for perfect hard-boiled eggs without a green ring around the yolk.

Final Thoughts

This egg salad with cottage cheese is not only nutritious but also versatile. You can enjoy it on toast, as a dip, or even in wraps. The creamy texture from cottage cheese makes it delightful without needing any mayo. Try customizing it with your favorite herbs or spices!