Cottage cheese egg salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines the richness of eggs and the creaminess of cottage cheese. Perfect for a light lunch, snack, or even a party appetizer, this egg salad brings a fresh twist to the classic recipe. The combination of creamy cottage cheese with boiled eggs creates a deliciously smooth texture that is complemented by a variety of seasonings. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or something to prepare in advance, this salad checks all the boxes. You can enjoy it on toast, with crackers, or even as a filling for sandwiches. It’s versatile, easy to make, and highly customizable to suit your taste preferences. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra protein while keeping things light and fresh. The recipe is as simple as it gets, so you’ll never feel overwhelmed when craving a comforting yet healthy dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy
This cottage cheese egg salad comes together in just a few minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days when you want something nutritious without spending much time in the kitchen.
2. Protein-Packed
With the combination of eggs and cottage cheese, this salad is a great source of high-quality protein, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
3. Customizable
You can easily tweak the recipe by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables to suit your personal taste preferences.
4. Healthy and Light
This recipe offers a lighter take on traditional egg salads, providing all the flavor without the heavy mayo, making it a healthier option.
5. Versatile
Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich, wrap, or snack on crackers, this salad can be enjoyed in many different ways, making it a flexible addition to your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- Cottage cheese
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Mustard
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives)
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: onions, celery, or pickles for added crunch
Variations
- Avocado: Add mashed avocado for a creamy texture and a dose of healthy fats.
- Greek Yogurt: Swap cottage cheese for Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and extra creaminess.
- Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian: Add in some chopped veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or tomatoes for added freshness and crunch.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Eggs
Start by boiling your eggs. Place them in a pot, cover with water, and bring it to a boil. Once the water boils, reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove the eggs and let them cool before peeling.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
While the eggs are cooling, gather your other ingredients. If you’re using herbs or vegetables, chop them finely.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the finely chopped eggs, mustard, and any additional ingredients such as herbs or vegetables.
Step 4: Season
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any additional spices to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For best results, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve on toast, in a wrap, or as a dip for crackers.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Be sure to chop the eggs into small pieces for the best texture.
- For a creamier version, add a little more cottage cheese.
- If you’re not a fan of mustard, you can swap it for a small amount of lemon juice or vinegar for a tangy twist.
- To make it extra creamy, use full-fat cottage cheese.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use a food processor to blend the mixture slightly.
How to Serve
This cottage cheese egg salad is versatile when it comes to serving options. You can serve it on:
- Toast or whole-grain bread for a hearty sandwich.
- As a filling for wraps or pita pockets.
- With crackers or as a dip for vegetables.
- On top of a bed of leafy greens for a light and healthy meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will develop further as it sits, making it even more delicious.
Freezing
Although egg salad typically doesn’t freeze well due to the texture of the cottage cheese, you can store it in the fridge for short-term enjoyment.
Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed cold, but if you need to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly when reheated.
FAQs
1. Can I use mayonnaise instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise, but it will change the flavor and texture of the dish. Cottage cheese makes it lighter and creamier.
2. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It can last up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container.
3. Can I use soft-boiled eggs?
While soft-boiled eggs work, they might make the salad a bit runnier. Hard-boiled eggs are typically preferred for a firmer texture.
4. Can I add other veggies to the salad?
Absolutely! You can add chopped celery, onions, or even bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.
5. Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
6. Can I make this salad without mustard?
Yes, you can leave out the mustard and opt for lemon juice or vinegar to add a tangy flavor.
7. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but it may be a bit less creamy.
8. Can I make this egg salad in advance?
Yes, it’s great to make ahead and store in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully after a few hours.
9. What can I serve this salad with?
You can serve it with crackers, toast, in wraps, or as a salad topping.
10. How do I make this egg salad spicy?
Add hot sauce, chili flakes, or cayenne pepper to give it a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Simple cottage cheese egg salad is the perfect go-to recipe for a healthy, easy, and protein-packed meal. With its creamy texture, customizable ingredients, and versatility, it’s a dish that can be tailored to any taste and enjoyed in multiple ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a snack, or a party dish, this recipe checks all the boxes. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself reaching for it again and again!
PrintSimple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and healthy twist on the classic egg salad, this Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad combines creamy cottage cheese with boiled eggs and a hint of seasoning for a light, protein-packed dish. Perfect for lunch, a snack, or a light dinner!
Ingredients
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6 large eggs (hard-boiled)
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1/2 cup cottage cheese
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2 tbsp mayonnaise
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (optional)
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1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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1/4 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions
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Peel the boiled eggs and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
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In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped eggs with cottage cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh dill (if using).
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything until well combined.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill before serving.
Notes
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You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
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If you want more crunch, you can add diced celery or pickles.
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The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for boiling the eggs)
- Category: Salads
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American