Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional egg salad. With its creamy texture and tangy flavor, it makes a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein. It’s a healthier choice that will satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 16 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
• Healthy Alternative: With cottage cheese as the base, it’s lower in fat while still being rich in flavor.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it on toast, in a sandwich, or as a dip with veggies. The options are endless!
• High Protein Content: Each serving offers a substantial amount of protein, making it great for muscle recovery.
• Customizable Flavors: Adjust the seasonings and add-ins to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious cottage cheese egg salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Small pot
• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Small pot: Ideal for boiling eggs evenly and efficiently.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients seamlessly.
• Fork: Great for mashing the dressing mixture to achieve the right consistency.
• Strainer: Helps cool eggs quickly when submerged in cold water.

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.

Ingredients:
– ⅔ cup cottage cheese
– 6 large eggs
– 5-6 tablespoons scallions/spring onion (finely chopped)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 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

Place the eggs in a small pot, add water then cover and bring to the boil. Turn off the heat and leave the eggs in the pot for 7-8 minutes (do not remove the lid). TIP: This is how I like to cook hard-boiled eggs, but you can use another method if preferred.

Step 2: Cool Eggs

Strain then immerse the eggs in very cold water (add ice cubes if possible) for about 2 minutes. After about 30 seconds add more ice cubes or change the water to ensure it stays cold. Drain off the water then wipe and peel the eggs.

Step 3: Chop 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 whole eggs and egg whites. Set aside.

Step 4: Make Dressing Mixture

Combine the egg yolks with 2 tablespoons of cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard. Mash with a fork until thick and creamy (it doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth).

Step 5: Assemble

In a mixing bowl, add chopped eggs, remaining cottage cheese, scallions, creamy dressing, salt and pepper, along with most of the pepper flakes. Stir until thoroughly combined and adjust seasoning as needed. Sprinkle remaining pepper flakes on top. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving if possible.

How to Serve Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

This creamy and tangy Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a light lunch, brunch with friends, or a quick snack, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

On Toast

• Whole Grain Bread: Spread the egg salad on toasted whole grain bread for a healthy crunch.
• Avocado Toast: Top your avocado toast with this egg salad for added protein and flavor.

In Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps filled with the egg salad for a refreshing low-carb option.
• Tortilla Wraps: Roll the egg salad in a tortilla with fresh veggies for an easy, portable meal.

With Crackers

• Whole Wheat Crackers: Serve the egg salad alongside whole wheat crackers for a crunchy snack.
• Rice Cakes: For a gluten-free alternative, enjoy it on rice cakes topped with extra scallions.

As a Dip

• Veggie Platter: Use the egg salad as a dip alongside carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips.
• Pita Chips: Pair with pita chips for a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the salad.

How to Perfect Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Creating the perfect Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is easy with these helpful tips. Follow them to ensure your dish is flavorful and satisfying every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh scallions and high-quality cottage cheese enhance the overall flavor of your salad.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes according to your preference.
• Let it chill: Refrigerating the salad for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with herbs: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives for an extra burst of freshness.
• Choose eggs wisely: Opt for organic or free-range eggs for better taste and nutrition.
• Customize texture: If you prefer a creamier consistency, add more cottage cheese or mayonnaise to suit your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

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

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the egg salad.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that complements the creamy texture of the egg salad.
3. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad offers natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables bring warmth and depth to your meal; try carrots or zucchini.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad makes for a hearty side that pairs well with the dish’s flavors.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide comfort alongside the lightness of the egg salad; serve them baked or air-fried.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the eggs: Cooking the eggs for too long can result in a rubbery texture. Stick to the suggested time of 7-8 minutes and cool them immediately.
• Not cooling the eggs properly: If you skip the cold water bath, peeling will be difficult. Always strain and immerse them in ice-cold water for easier peeling.
• Skipping seasoning: A bland salad can ruin the experience. Taste your mixture and adjust with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
• Using too much mayonnaise: This can make your salad overly heavy. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more only if necessary for creaminess.
• Not letting it chill: Serving right away can make it less flavorful. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld together.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and freshness.

Freezing Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

• Not recommended due to the texture changes after freezing.
• Instead, prepare fresh portions as needed.

Reheating Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad.

What is Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a lighter version of traditional egg salad made with cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with protein.

How long does Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 3-4 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container.

Can I customize my Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

Absolutely! You can add diced vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch or swap out scallions for fresh herbs like dill or parsley.

Is Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in the refrigerator and makes a quick meal or snack option throughout the week.

What can I serve with my Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad?

This salad pairs well with whole-grain bread, crackers, or fresh veggies. It also makes a great topping for green salads!

Final Thoughts

This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Enjoy it as a healthy breakfast, lunch, or snack option. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or spices!