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This cottage cheese egg salad delivers a delightful balance of creamy texture and garden-fresh herbs. By swapping traditional mayonnaise with protein-rich cottage cheese, this elevated version creates a nutritious twist on the classic. Fresh dill, bright lemon, and diced red onion transform simple hard-boiled eggs into an irresistible dish that provides sustained energy.
This recipe emerged from kitchen experiments to boost protein while maintaining great flavor. Even picky eaters enjoy this healthier version - it consistently receives praise for surpassing traditional egg salad in both taste and texture.
Key Ingredients
- Large eggs: The foundation that provides rich flavor and hearty texture
- Cottage cheese: Creates a protein-rich, creamy base that binds everything together
- Fresh dill: Adds bright, herbaceous notes that complement the eggs
- Red onion: Provides crisp texture and mild bite
- Dijon mustard: Brings tangy depth to enhance the overall flavor
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the creamy elements
- Chives: Offers subtle onion flavor and visual appeal
Full-fat cottage cheese produces the smoothest texture, though reduced-fat varieties work well for a lighter version. The key is choosing a high-quality brand with a creamy consistency.
Preparation Method
- Perfectly Cooked Eggs:
- Place room temperature eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove from heat and cover.
- Ice Bath Method:
- Let eggs stand covered for 11 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. This prevents overcooking and ensures golden yolks.
- Preparing the Base:
- Blend cottage cheese until completely smooth with no visible curds. This creates an ideal creamy foundation.
- Chopping Technique:
- Peel eggs under cool water. Cut each egg lengthwise, quarter, then chop into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
Final Assembly
Combining ingredients requires gentle handling to maintain optimal texture. Layer flavors carefully, allowing the smooth cottage cheese to envelop the tender eggs while herbs and seasonings provide aromatic depth. Each component contributes to the satisfying final result.
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Experience shows that room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly and allow flavors to develop fully. This simple technique consistently produces superior results.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile egg salad shines in many presentations. Serve between crusty bread slices with crisp cucumber, spoon onto lettuce leaves for a light lunch, or fill mini sweet peppers for an eye-catching appetizer. For a complete meal, pair with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes and avocado.
Variations
Experiment with different flavor combinations. Try Mediterranean-style with sundried tomatoes and basil, or add curry powder for an Indian-inspired version. Create heat by incorporating diced jalapeños, or serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container with parchment paper pressed directly on the surface. Keeps fresh for three days when properly refrigerated. Before serving, allow to rest at room temperature briefly and stir gently to restore the original consistency.
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Regular preparation of this protein-rich egg salad has proven its worth as a reliable kitchen staple. The combination of quality ingredients and proper technique consistently produces excellent results that satisfy both nutrition goals and taste preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long can I store this egg salad in the fridge?
- Keep it in the fridge inside a sealed container, and it'll stay good for about 3 to 4 days.
- → Do I have to blend the cottage cheese?
- Not at all! If you like the texture of cottage cheese as it is, just mix everything together for a chunkier salad.
- → What’s the best way to peel hard-cooked eggs easily?
- As soon as they’re done, dunk the eggs into ice-cold water for at least 5 minutes. This helps loosen the shell so it slides right off!
- → How do I serve this salad?
- It’s awesome on bread, wrapped in lettuce, spooned onto greens, or served up with crackers. You can even pair it with fresh avocado and tomato slices for extra flavor.
- → Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
- Yep! If you're swapping fresh for dried, use about one-third of the amount. But fresh herbs really make the flavor pop.