Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

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Introduction

Looking for a healthy, protein-rich, and creamy salad that’s easy to make? This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a delicious twist on the classic egg salad, offering extra creaminess, flavor, and nutrition with the addition of cottage cheese.

Unlike traditional egg salad, which is often made with mayo, this version swaps in high-protein cottage cheese, making it a lighter, healthier option while still maintaining its delicious, creamy texture. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, meal prep, or a protein-packed snack.

This low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly salad pairs wonderfully with crackers, toast, or fresh veggies. Want to make it even better? Serve it in a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or as a filling for lettuce wraps. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

  • 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • ½ cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika

Add-Ins (Optional for Extra Flavor & Texture):

  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives or green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon celery, finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for freshness)
  • ½ teaspoon everything bagel seasoning (for extra flavor)

Serving Options:

  • Whole grain toast
  • Lettuce wraps
  • Crackers or rice cakes
  • Stuffed inside a pita or tortilla

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggs

  1. Place eggs in a pot of water, bring to a boil, and cook for 10-12 minutes.
  2. Transfer to an ice bath for easy peeling.
  3. Peel and chop the eggs into small pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, Greek yogurt, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Stir well until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine & Add Flavor

  1. Add the chopped eggs and mix until evenly coated.
  2. If using, fold in chives, celery, and lemon juice for extra flavor.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

  • Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  • Garnish with extra chives, black pepper, or everything bagel seasoning before serving.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 2-3
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

1. Low-Carb/Keto Version

  • Use full-fat cottage cheese for a keto-friendly version.
  • Serve with lettuce wraps instead of bread.

2. Spicy Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

  • Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.
  • Mix in diced jalapeños for extra heat.

3. Avocado Egg Salad

  • Replace Greek yogurt with mashed avocado for a creamy, nutrient-packed version.
  • Add a squeeze of lime juice for freshness.

4. Mediterranean-Style Egg Salad

  • Add chopped cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.
  • Sprinkle with oregano and a drizzle of olive oil.

Storage & Meal Prep

Refrigeration:

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Stir before serving as the cottage cheese may release some liquid.

Meal Prep Tip:

  • Hard-boil eggs in advance and keep them in the fridge for quick assembly.
  • Mix everything fresh for the best flavor.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use mayo instead of cottage cheese?

Yes! If you prefer traditional egg salad, swap the cottage cheese for mayo.

2. Is this recipe good for weight loss?

Absolutely! It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and packed with healthy fats, making it great for weight loss.

3. What type of cottage cheese should I use?

Use small curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture, or blend it for an ultra-creamy version.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld.

5. How do I prevent the salad from getting watery?

  • Drain excess liquid from the cottage cheese before mixing.
  • Use Greek yogurt to help stabilize the texture.

6. Can I add other proteins?

Yes! Add shredded chicken, tuna, or diced turkey for extra protein.

7. What’s the best way to serve this egg salad?

  • On toast or crackers
  • In a sandwich
  • Over a bed of greens

8. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cottage cheese or replace it with mashed avocado.

9. Can I use egg whites only?

Yes! For a lower-fat version, use just the egg whites instead of whole eggs.

10. What sides pair well with cottage cheese egg salad?

  • Fresh fruit
  • Cucumber slices or bell peppers
  • Whole grain crackers

Conclusion

This Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, protein-packed goodness that’s easy to make and super versatile. Whether you serve it on toast, in lettuce wraps, or with crackers, it’s a healthy, quick, and satisfying meal.

Give this recipe a try and experiment with different flavors, add-ins, and toppings to make it your own. Let us know your favorite way to enjoy this salad! 🥚🥗

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