Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

If you’re looking for a fresh twist on a classic favorite, this Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! is just what you need. It’s light, creamy, and packed with protein, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love how the cottage cheese adds a delightful richness without the heaviness of mayonnaise. Plus, it comes together in just 17 minutes—who doesn’t love a quick and easy recipe?

This dish is not only a fantastic lunch option but also works wonderfully as a healthy snack. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this egg salad will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 17 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dish!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and tasty flavors.
• Protein-packed: With 35 grams of protein per serving, it’s a guilt-free way to stay energized.
• Versatile: Enjoy it on toast, in lettuce wraps, or even on its own for a lighter meal.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance for effortless lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple and wholesome, making this recipe easy to put together. You might already have most of these items in your kitchen.

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)

Variations

This egg salad is flexible and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add some crunch: Mix in diced celery or bell peppers for extra texture.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like dill or chives can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
• Spice it up: A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can add a kick if you like heat.
• Make it lighter: Swap sourdough for lettuce leaves to create refreshing lettuce wraps.

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

Step 1: Cook the Eggs

First things first—let’s get those eggs cooked! You have two options here. If you’re boiling them, bring a pot of water to a boil and gently add the eggs. Boil them for 9 minutes. Alternatively, if you prefer using an air fryer, set it to 270°F and cook the eggs for about 12 minutes. Once they’re done, immediately transfer them to an ice bath. This stops the cooking process and makes peeling much easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Salad

Once your eggs are cool, peel them and place them in a medium bowl. Using a fork, mash them up until they’re broken into smaller pieces. Now add in the cottage cheese along with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. If you’re feeling adventurous, stir in some sweet pickle relish or diced pickles for that tangy bite! Mixing these ingredients not only enhances flavor but also gives your salad that creamy consistency without any mayo.

Step 3: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Toast your slices of sourdough bread until they’re golden brown—this adds such a nice crunch! Place slices of fresh avocado on each piece of toast; this adds creaminess and healthy fats. Finally, spoon generous amounts of your egg salad on top of each toast.

And there you have it! A delightful Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! Enjoy every bite knowing that you’ve made something nutritious and delicious!

Pro Tips for Making Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

Creating the perfect egg salad with cottage cheese is a delightful experience! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish and make it even more enjoyable.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality cottage cheese make a world of difference in flavor and texture. The freshness enhances the overall taste, ensuring each bite is delicious.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t be afraid to tweak the salt, pepper, or paprika to suit your palate. This customization allows you to find that perfect balance of flavor that you love.
• Chill before serving: Letting your egg salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This step can elevate the taste and make it even more refreshing!
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add diced onions, celery, or even herbs like dill or chives for an extra burst of flavor. These additions can provide contrasting textures and tastes that keep things interesting.
• Toast your bread well: Toasting the sourdough until it’s golden brown creates a lovely crunch that complements the creamy egg salad perfectly. It adds an enjoyable texture contrast to each bite.

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

Serving your egg salad creatively can turn a simple lunch into something special! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s freshness.
• Sliced tomatoes: Placing a few thin slices of ripe tomatoes on top brings both color and a juicy contrast to the creamy salad.

Side Dishes

• Crispy carrot sticks: Crunchy carrot sticks bring a satisfying texture and are perfect for dipping in any leftover egg salad.
• Mixed greens salad: A light side salad with mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the egg salad beautifully.
• Sweet potato fries: Baked sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of your egg salad.
• Quinoa pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with vegetables is not only nutritious but also provides an excellent source of fiber, making it a wholesome companion for your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a deliciously healthy egg salad with cottage cheese—no mayo needed! Happy eating!

Make Ahead and Storage

This egg salad with cottage cheese is perfect for meal prep! It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and can be easily stored for delicious lunches throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover egg salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.

Freezing

• While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the egg salad if necessary.
• Scoop portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Label them with the date and consume within one month for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
• Serve cold on toast or let it come to room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

Have questions about this recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

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

Absolutely! This egg salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy it.

How long does Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this egg salad will last 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it!

Can I add other ingredients to my Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in diced celery, green onions, or even a bit of mustard for extra flavor. Customize it to suit your taste!

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This egg salad is a great meal prep option. You can prepare a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! It’s a delightful twist on a classic that not only satisfies your taste buds but also fuels your body with protein. Enjoy every bite and feel free to customize it to make it your own. Happy cooking!