Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Recipe

Fluffy Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Recipe for Brunch Bliss

Whipping up a creamy cottage cheese egg salad brings unexpected magic to your lunch routine.

Protein-packed ingredients merge in delightful harmony for a quick midday meal.

Light and satisfying, this twist on classic egg salad delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Fresh herbs and tangy cottage cheese create a surprising combination that feels both nostalgic and modern.

Simple pantry staples transform into something extraordinary with just a few strategic mixing techniques.

Smooth textures and rich nutrients make this recipe perfect for anyone seeking a delicious, nutritious alternative to traditional versions.

Cottage Cheese Egg Salad: Reasons to Make It

  • Cottage cheese and eggs combine for a protein-packed meal, delivering a powerful nutritional boost that keeps you satisfied and energized throughout the day.
  • Whip up this egg salad in just 15-20 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy individuals seeking a delicious, fast meal without complicated cooking techniques.
  • Swap traditional mayo-heavy egg salad with this lighter, protein-rich version that incorporates Greek yogurt and cottage cheese, offering a healthier alternative that doesn't compromise on taste or creamy texture.
  • Enjoy this egg salad as a sandwich filling, atop crisp greens, with crackers, or as a protein-packed dip, making it an incredibly flexible dish for multiple meal scenarios.

Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Ingredient Checklist

Base Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Fresh, large eggs are the protein-packed foundation of this salad, providing rich texture and nutrition.
  • Cottage Cheese: Creamy, low-fat protein source that adds a tangy and smooth base to the egg salad.
  • Greek Yogurt: Provides extra creaminess and adds a subtle tanginess to the dressing.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds a sharp, zesty kick to the dressing with its distinctive flavor.
  • Garlic Powder: Brings a mild, aromatic seasoning without raw garlic intensity.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste.
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and adds a fresh, citrusy note.
Fresh Herbs and Garnish:
  • Chives, Parsley: Fresh herbs that provide color, texture, and a light, herbal freshness.
  • Paprika: Optional garnish that adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and attractive color.

Steps to Prep Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

Step 1: Boil and Prep Eggs

Hard boil the eggs using your preferred method. Once cooled, carefully peel the shells and chop the eggs into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Create Dreamy Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Cottage cheese
  • Greek yogurt
  • Dijon mustard
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Whisk everything together until smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Fold In Fresh Herbs

Gently fold into the creamy base:
  • Chopped eggs
  • Finely minced chives
  • Freshly chopped parsley

Stir carefully to ensure even coating without breaking the egg pieces.

Step 4: Add Final Flourish

Optional but recommended: Sprinkle a light dusting of paprika across the top for a pop of color and subtle warmth.

Step 5: Chill and Enhance

Refrigerate the egg salad for 15-20 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to mingle and develop a more complex taste profile.

Serve chilled on toast, crackers, or as a sandwich filling. Keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Helpful Tips for Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

  • Boost Protein Power: Swap Greek yogurt with protein-rich alternatives like skyr or quark for an extra protein punch.
  • Customize Herb Blend: Experiment with fresh dill, tarragon, or basil instead of chives and parsley to create unique flavor profiles.
  • Make It Creamy: Use full-fat cottage cheese for a richer, creamier texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel of the egg salad.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve the egg salad over crisp lettuce leaves or cucumber slices instead of bread for a keto-friendly meal.
  • Prep Ahead Hack: Store the egg salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep and quick lunches.

Storing and Warming Up Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

  • Store cottage cheese egg salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
  • Always place the container in the coldest part of the fridge, typically the back shelf, to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Gently warm the egg salad in the microwave using short 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating to prevent egg texture from becoming rubbery.
  • Before consuming leftovers, do a quick smell and visual check. Discard if you notice any off odors, discoloration, or unusual texture changes.

Pairing Ideas for Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

  • Serve alongside grilled chicken or smoked salmon for an extra protein-packed meal that elevates the egg salad's creamy texture.
  • Pair with crisp cucumber slices, butter lettuce wraps, or toasted whole grain crackers to add delightful crunch and balance the soft egg mixture.
  • Complement the tangy and creamy profile with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon to cleanse the palate.
  • Garnish with fresh dill or microgreens just before serving to introduce a bright, aromatic element that enhances the herb notes already present in the dish.

Creative Spins on Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

  • Low-Carb Lettuce Wraps: Replace bread with crisp lettuce leaves for a carb-conscious version that's light and refreshing.
  • Vegan Tofu Alternative: Swap eggs with crumbled firm tofu and use plant-based yogurt for a completely vegan protein-packed salad.
  • Herb Garden Mix: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill, tarragon, or basil to create unique flavor profiles while keeping the core recipe intact.
  • Spicy Kick Version: Add sriracha sauce or diced jalapeños to give the egg salad a zesty, warming heat that transforms the classic recipe.

Answers About Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

  • Is cottage cheese a healthy alternative to mayonnaise in egg salad?

Yes, cottage cheese is lower in calories, higher in protein, and provides a creamy texture while adding more nutritional value compared to traditional mayonnaise-based egg salads.

  • Can I make this egg salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this egg salad up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually develop and become more intense over time.

  • What are the best ways to serve this cottage cheese egg salad?

This egg salad is versatile – you can serve it on whole grain toast, stuff it in lettuce wraps, use it as a sandwich filling, or enjoy it as a protein-rich dip with crackers or fresh vegetables.

  • How can I make this recipe more protein-packed?

Add extra protein by mixing in some canned tuna, diced chicken, or chopped hard-boiled egg whites to increase the protein content and make the dish even more filling.

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Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Recipe

Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Recipe


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4.9 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy cottage cheese egg salad delivers a protein-packed twist on classic deli fare. Tangy herbs and smooth texture elevate this simple dish, promising a delightful lunch that satisfies both hunger and taste buds.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein Ingredients:

  • 6 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • ½ cup (120 ml) cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)

Dairy and Creamy Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Greek yogurt (optional for extra creaminess)

Seasoning and Herb Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) salt
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) chopped chives or green onions
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) paprika (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Gently crack and place eggs in a pot of cold water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and simmer for precisely 10 minutes to achieve perfectly hard-boiled eggs.
  2. Remove eggs from heat and immediately transfer to an ice bath, allowing them to cool rapidly and prevent overcooking. This technique ensures easy peeling and a smooth texture.
  3. Carefully peel the cooled eggs, removing the shells completely. Slice the eggs into uniform, bite-sized chunks using a sharp knife.
  4. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the creamy cottage cheese with tangy Greek yogurt. Whisk in zesty Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, aromatic garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Fold the chopped eggs into the creamy dressing, incorporating finely minced chives and parsley. Gently mix to ensure even distribution of herbs and eggs.
  6. Optional: Dust the surface with a light sprinkle of paprika for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal.
  7. Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. Serve chilled as a refreshing and protein-packed dish.

Notes

  • Boost protein content by choosing high-quality, pasture-raised eggs for richer nutritional value.
  • Swap Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Use fresh herbs from your garden or windowsill to elevate the brightness and freshness of the salad.
  • Reduce sodium by selecting low-sodium cottage cheese and adjusting salt quantities to personal taste preferences.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

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