Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Recipe

Let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorite dishes: Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad. This zesty, protein-packed salad combines creamy cottage cheese, tender eggs, fresh scallions, and a hint of mustard to create something so satisfying, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Whether you need a quick lunch, wholesome snack, or a crave-worthy side, this version of egg salad is destined to become a go-to option. It delivers classic comfort, but with a lively twist that makes every bite deliciously unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how just a handful of everyday staples can be transformed into this stellar Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad. Each ingredient pulls its weight, blending with its neighbors to give you an irresistible mix of flavors and textures. So gather these up and get ready for a dish that celebrates the beauty of simplicity.

• Cottage cheese: The creamy hero of this salad, adding richness and a subtle tang while keeping things light.
• Large eggs: The foundation of every great egg salad; perfectly boiled for a firm yet tender texture.
• Scallions/spring onion: These flecks of green offer crunch and a mild oniony kick that brightens the whole bowl.
• Mayonnaise: Just a touch brings luxurious creaminess and brings everything together.
• Dijon-style mustard: For a pop of sharpness and depth that wakes up your tastebuds.
• Fine sea salt (and black pepper to taste): A pinch or two is all it takes to make every flavor shine through.
• Red pepper flakes: Just a hint for gentle heat and a bit of visual flair.

How to Make Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Step 1: Boil the Eggs

Start by placing your eggs in a small pot and covering them with water. Bring the water to a gentle boil, then turn off the heat and cover. Let the eggs sit for 7 to 8 minutes—this gentler cooking method gives you firm, golden yolks and soft whites without the risk of rubbery edges or that stubborn gray ring. Trust me, it’s so easy!

Step 2: Cool and Peel

Drain away the hot water and quickly immerse the eggs in a bowl of very cold water, adding ice cubes if you have them. After a quick soak (about two minutes, with fresh ice cubes added if needed), your eggs will be a breeze to peel, with the shells practically sliding off. This keeps the whites pristine and prevents that dreaded pitted look.

Step 3: Chop the Eggs

Slice each egg in half lengthwise. Pop the yolks out of four eggs into a shallow bowl and finely chop the remaining two whole eggs plus all the egg whites. Taking this extra moment to finely chop your eggs ensures a creamy, perfectly textured salad every time.

Step 4: Make the Dressing Mixture

Mash the reserved yolks together with a couple tablespoons of cottage cheese, the mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. You don’t need to make it perfectly smooth—some rustic texture adds charm and holds onto the dressing beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the chopped eggs, remaining cottage cheese, scallions, creamy yolk-mayo dressing, salt, plenty of black pepper, and most of your pepper flakes. Stir until everything is evenly coated, adjusting the salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle the rest of the red pepper flakes over the top and, if you can wait, refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors come together before serving.

How to Serve Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Garnishes

A dusting of fresh chives, extra scallion greens, or another pinch of red pepper flakes makes this Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad look extra vibrant and inviting. A little sprinkle of smoked paprika or microgreens also works wonders for a special touch.

Side Dishes

Serve this salad on hearty whole grain toast, alongside crisp lettuce leaves, or with crunchy raw veggies like cucumber sticks and carrot slices. It pairs beautifully with a cup of soup, a light green salad, or even just a handful of your favorite crackers for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! Spoon your Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad into halved avocados, stuff it into pita pockets, pile it onto rice cakes, or roll it up in tortilla wraps. For brunches or gatherings, serve it in little lettuce cups or as colorful, open-faced sandwiches with layers of sliced tomato and radish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad in an airtight container and tuck it into your fridge. It will keep well for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep lunches and speedy snacks. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing can sometimes separate a bit.

Freezing

I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad, since cottage cheese and eggs tend to weep and turn watery once thawed. The texture just won’t be the same, so it’s best to enjoy this dish freshly made or from the fridge.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so you’ll never need to reheat it. If you’ve kept it in the fridge, just pull it out 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor and creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and creamy consistency, making the Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad even lighter. Just swap the mayo in equal amounts or mix the two for a blend of richness and zing.

What cottage cheese should I use: full-fat or low-fat?

Both will work beautifully, but full-fat cottage cheese imparts more richness and flavor. For a lighter option, choose low-fat; just make sure it’s not too watery so your salad stays nice and creamy.

Can I add other veggies or herbs to this egg salad?

Of course! Feel free to mix in chopped celery, fresh dill, parsley, or even a handful of diced bell pepper. The salad is endlessly customizable, so play around and make it your own.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. Make a batch of Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad at the start of your week and store it in individual containers for a quick, protein-packed snack or lunch anytime.

How can I make this egg salad spicier?

If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or stir in a bit of finely chopped fresh chili or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. The cottage cheese and eggs mellow out the spice, so you can adjust to your liking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to give this Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad a try. There’s just something magical about the way these humble ingredients come together, proving once again that simple food can be absolutely extraordinary. Go ahead and whip up a bowl—it might just become your new favorite, too!

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