Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Egg salad is a classic comfort food, but this Cottage Cheese Egg Salad puts a fresh, healthy twist on the traditional recipe. By incorporating creamy cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise, this salad becomes lighter without sacrificing richness. The cottage cheese adds a smooth texture and a boost of protein, making this salad not only delicious but also nutritious.

The combination of chopped hard-boiled eggs, crisp celery, sweet carrot, and sharp red onion creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Dijon mustard and lemon juice add brightness and a slight tang, while fresh chives and parsley provide herbal freshness. It’s a vibrant, satisfying dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or simply served atop leafy greens for a low-carb option.

This recipe is quick to prepare and easily adaptable, making it ideal for meal prep or a quick lunch. Whether you’re looking for a lighter egg salad or a protein-packed snack, this cottage cheese version is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Light and healthy alternative to traditional egg salad with mayo.
2. High in protein thanks to cottage cheese and eggs.
3. Fresh and flavorful with herbs, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
4. Versatile—perfect for sandwiches, salads, or snacks.
5. Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• Hard boiled eggs (roughly chopped)
• Red onion (diced)
• Carrot (finely diced)
• Celery stalk (finely diced)
• Cottage cheese
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon juice
• Chopped chives
• Chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Add avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Mix in diced pickles or relish for added crunch and tang.
• Add smoked paprika or curry powder for a flavor twist.
• Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Place roughly chopped hard boiled eggs in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2

Add diced red onion, finely diced carrot, and celery.

Step 3

Stir in cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until combined.

Step 4

Fold in chopped chives and parsley.

Step 5

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently to combine.

Step 6

Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use firm, fresh hard-boiled eggs for the best texture.
• Dice vegetables finely for even texture and flavor distribution.
• Adjust lemon juice and mustard to your taste preference.
• If cottage cheese texture is too chunky, blend slightly for creaminess.
• Keep chilled and covered to maintain freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this Cottage Cheese Egg Salad on whole-grain bread, in a wrap, or atop a bed of mixed greens. It also makes a great dip for crackers or raw veggies. Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Not recommended, as cottage cheese and eggs do not freeze well.

Reheating

Serve cold or at room temperature; do not reheat.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, but the recipe is designed to be lighter with cottage cheese.

2. How long do hard boiled eggs stay fresh?

Hard boiled eggs last up to one week refrigerated.

3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, it tastes best if chilled for at least 30 minutes before serving.

4. Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates.

5. Can I add other herbs?

Absolutely! Dill, tarragon, or basil work well.

6. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

Yellow mustard or whole grain mustard can be substituted.

7. Can I use non-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, but it may affect creaminess slightly.

8. How can I make the salad creamier?

Blend the cottage cheese before mixing or add a little Greek yogurt.

9. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it holds well in the fridge for several days.

10. Can I add spices for more flavor?

Yes, try adding black pepper, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cayenne.

Conclusion

This Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a fresh, creamy, and protein-packed twist on a classic favorite. Easy to prepare and full of bright flavors, it’s perfect for a light lunch, snack, or picnic. By swapping in cottage cheese, you get all the deliciousness of traditional egg salad with a healthier edge that will keep you coming back for more.

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