Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

The moment I think of a light and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion, I’m drawn to my beloved Cottage Cheese Egg Salad. Growing up, my family would whip up this delightful salad on warm summer days, or we’d make it for picnics at the park. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a recipe that brings back fond memories of laughter and gatherings with loved ones. I often find myself craving its refreshing taste, especially when the sun is shining and the weather is just right. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also combines the rich, creamy texture of cottage cheese with the satisfying bite of eggs. It’s no wonder this salad has become a staple in my kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and the Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is no exception. This simple yet satisfying recipe features a handful of essential ingredients that work harmoniously together to create a delightful experience. The stars of the show are the eggs and cottage cheese, complemented by fresh crunch from celery and aromatic flavors of dill and onion. Together, they form a delicious salad that is both nourishing and versatile.

• 6 large eggs: The backbone of this salad, providing protein and a rich texture. Cooked to perfection, these eggs can be boiled or steamed for a creamy base.
• 8 ounces full-fat cottage cheese: This creamy ingredient adds a luscious texture and a hint of tanginess, making it a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Just the right amount of Dijon mustard enhances the flavor profile with a subtle zing.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: A sprinkle of onion powder brings an aromatic depth to the dish without overpowering the other flavors.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: This ingredient adds a hint of savory flavor that complements the eggs beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also gives the salad a warm, smoky undertone, making it more flavorful.
• Salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, enhancing all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
• 2 ribs celery, finely diced: Adding a delightful crunch, celery brightens the texture of the salad.
• ½ medium red onion, finely diced: The sweetness of the red onion contrasts nicely with the other ingredients.
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: Fresh dill elevates the dish with its aromatic flavor, making it more vibrant and refreshing.

How to Prepare Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Preparing the Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is as enjoyable as it is satisfying. You’ll delight in the simple steps that lead to a delicious result. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and create something delicious together!

1. Start by cooking the eggs using your preferred method. I personally love to steam them, then immediately place them in an ice water bath. This method helps the eggs peel more easily and ensures they remain tender. Just be cautious not to overcook them, as this can lead to a rubbery texture.
2. Once your eggs have cooled down, peel them carefully. You’ll want to remove the shells to reveal the beautiful golden yolks. Dice the eggs into small pieces, making them easier to incorporate into the salad.
3. Next, grab your blender or food processor. In it, combine the cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and ground black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. This will form the base for your salad, adding a rich consistency.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced eggs, celery, red onion, and chopped dill. This combination adds a delightful crunch and fresh flavors, making every bite enjoyable.
5. Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture over the egg mixture. With a gentle hand, stir everything together until evenly combined. You want all the ingredients to be well incorporated, ensuring each bite is as flavorful as the last.
6. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. This is where you can get a little creative. To make it visually appealing, garnish with additional fresh dill and a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top.
7. If you have time, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about an hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a more harmonious dish.
8. Once chilled, serve the Cottage Cheese Egg Salad on a bed of fresh greens, as a sandwich filling, or alongside your favorite crackers. The options are endless!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

This Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your tastes and dietary needs. Here are some fun tips to make it your own!

• Storage: To keep your leftovers fresh, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to three days.
• Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad in individual portions for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving.
• Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with whole grain bread or crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing wrap.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Try adding fresh parsley or chives for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: For a kick, incorporate some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and flavor.

Side Dish Ideas for Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

When serving your Cottage Cheese Egg Salad, it’s all about pairing it perfectly with the right sides. Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your meal:

• Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad is a fantastic accompaniment, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy Cottage Cheese Egg Salad.
• Whole Grain Bread: Serve the salad on slices of whole grain bread for a heartier option. It makes a delicious sandwich that’s perfect for lunch.
• Veggie Sticks: Pair the salad with carrot and cucumber sticks for a healthy and crunchy side.
• Crackers: Enjoy it with whole grain crackers for a delightful snack or appetizer.
• Seasonal Fruits: Fresh fruits like strawberries or grapes can add a sweet touch and balance the flavors on your plate.
• Occasions: This salad shines at potlucks, picnics, or summer barbecues. It’s light enough for a warm day yet satisfying enough for dinner.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Cottage Cheese Egg Salad stands out as a refreshing and nutritious option that can be enjoyed any time of year. Its creamy texture and delightful flavors make it a perfect choice for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed with its simplicity and taste!

Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

The ultimate comfort food, Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is creamy, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make! Packed with proteins and delicious flavors, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or a picnic treat. Whip it up in no time and enjoy a delightful meal tonight!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 large Eggs
• 8 ounces Full-fat cottage cheese (225g)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon Onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Smoked paprika plus more for garnish
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 2 ribs Celery finely diced
• ½ medium Red onion finely diced
• 1 tablespoon Fresh dill (3g) chopped, plus more for garnish

Equipment

• Medium pot
• Mixing Bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or spatula

Method

 

1. Cook the eggs using your preferred method (I like to steam the eggs followed by an ice water bath, as they peel very easily). Be careful not to overcook them.
2. Peel the cooled eggs and dice them into small pieces.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and ground black pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced eggs, celery, red onion, and chopped dill.
5. Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture over the egg mixture and stir until everything is evenly combined.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh dill and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Chill for 1 hour if time allows.

Notes

• For a smooth texture: blend the cottage cheese before mixing, but if you don’t mind the cheese curds, you can skip that step.
• A small blender: is the best tool for getting a really smooth cottage cheese mixture. Your next best choice is a food processor.
• Adjust the seasonings: to taste after chilling.
• Store: in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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Meet Rose Kelley

I’m happiest when I have dirt under my fingernails and fresh herbs in my hand. I bring a garden-to-table philosophy to our group. I’m always tossing handfuls of fresh basil or mint into our pots, looking for that pop of freshness. I love cooking alongside Maya to ensure our meals feel vibrant and alive. I participate in every step, from the initial chopping to the final taste test!