Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

This Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo! offers a refreshing twist on the classic egg salad. By incorporating creamy cottage cheese, this recipe not only enhances the flavors but also packs a protein punch, making it perfect for lunch or a healthy snack. The blend of textures and tastes ensures this dish stands out, especially when served on toasted sourdough with fresh avocado. It’s a delightful option for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High Protein Content: With 41 grams of protein per serving, this egg salad keeps you satisfied and energized.
• No Mayo Needed: Enjoy a creamy texture without the extra calories and fat of mayonnaise.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 17 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days or meal prep.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on toast, in lettuce wraps, or as a dip with veggies.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of smoked paprika and sweet pickle relish brings unique flavors to the dish.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this egg salad with cottage cheese successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure delicious results.

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 achieve the perfect hard-boiled texture.
• Ice bath container: Quickly cools down the eggs after boiling, preventing overcooking.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing the ingredients together without spills.
• Fork: Perfect for mashing the eggs and blending them with cottage cheese.

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Ingredients

To make this delicious egg salad with cottage cheese, you will need the following 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.
2. Add the eggs carefully and boil them for 9 minutes.

Step 2: Cool the Eggs

1. Immediately transfer the boiled eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. Peel the eggs once they are cool enough to handle.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, mash the peeled eggs using a fork until they reach your desired consistency.
2. Stir in the cottage cheese, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.
3. If desired, add sweet pickle relish or diced pickles for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 4: Toast and Assemble

1. Toast two slices of sourdough bread until golden brown.
2. Place sliced avocado on each slice of toast.
3. Spoon generous amounts of egg salad on top of each avocado-covered toast.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

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

This egg salad with cottage cheese is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to suit your taste and occasion.

On Toast

• Use toasted sourdough for a crunchy base that complements the creamy egg salad.

In a Wrap

• Spread the egg salad in a whole-grain wrap with fresh spinach and tomatoes for a quick meal on the go.

With Crackers

• Serve the egg salad on whole grain or seed crackers for a satisfying snack that adds crunch.

Over Salad Greens

• Spoon the egg salad over mixed greens for a light lunch option, adding extra veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers.

Stuffed Avocado

• Halve an avocado and fill it with the egg salad for a nutritious, low-carb meal.

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

Making the perfect egg salad is easy when you follow these tips. Each suggestion will enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and cottage cheese make all the difference in taste and quality.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before serving, and adjust salt, pepper, or smoked paprika as needed.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding diced celery or chopped green onions for extra crunch and flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting your egg salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Choose Quality Bread: Opt for artisanal sourdough or whole-grain bread to elevate your sandwiches.

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 its flavors well.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness to balance the savory egg salad.
2. Vegetable Sticks and Hummus: Crunchy carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks served with hummus provide a healthy, crunchy contrast.
3. Potato Wedges: Roasted or baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that pairs nicely with the savory notes of the egg salad.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and brightness to your plate, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers protein and texture alongside your egg salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making egg salad with cottage cheese, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish comes out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Eggs: Overboiling can lead to a rubbery texture. Stick to 9 minutes for boiled eggs or 12 minutes in an air fryer for optimal results.
• Not Cooling the Eggs Properly: Skipping the ice bath can cause further cooking and affect texture. Always cool your eggs quickly after boiling.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar cottage cheese or bread can diminish flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to blandness. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.
• Skipping Toasting the Bread: Serving on un-toasted bread prevents the perfect crunch. Toast your sourdough slices for better texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the egg salad is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Allow it to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about egg salad with cottage cheese that may help you enjoy this delicious dish even more!

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

Yes, you can prepare it up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

How can I customize my Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!?

You can add diced celery, onions, or herbs like dill or chives for extra flavor and crunch.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This egg salad keeps well and is perfect for quick lunches throughout the week.

What are some good sides to serve with egg salad?

Pair it with a fresh garden salad, veggie sticks, or fruit for a balanced meal.

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well if you’re looking to reduce calories without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This egg salad with cottage cheese offers a lighter take on a classic dish while packing in protein and flavor. It’s versatile enough for lunch or snack time and allows plenty of room for customization. Enjoy experimenting with different herbs and veggies to make this healthy recipe your own!