Protein-Packed Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – Mayo-Free

Craving a satisfying meal without the heavy mayo? Look no further than this Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo recipe. By swapping mayo for creamy cottage cheese, this innovative twist on a classic dish not only lightens it up but also amps up the protein content, boasting a whopping 35 grams per serving. The blend of perfectly boiled eggs, rich cottage cheese, and a hint of smoked paprika, all sandwiched between toasted sourdough and creamy avocado slices, creates a balanced and nutritious breakfast or lunch option that’s ready in just 17 minutes.

Gone are the days of drowning your eggs in mayo – this recipe allows fresh ingredients to shine while providing a protein-packed punch. The cottage cheese adds a delightful creaminess to the salad, keeping it light yet satisfying with every bite. Whether enjoyed on toast, in lettuce wraps, or straight from the bowl, this versatile dish is perfect for busy weekdays or elegant gatherings, offering a quick and energizing meal that won’t weigh you down. So, say goodbye to traditional egg salad and say hello to a mayo-free version that’s sure to become your new go-to lunch favorite.

Quick Benefits

• Protein-Rich: Provides 35 grams of protein per serving, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.
• Light and Creamy: Cottage cheese adds creaminess while keeping the dish light and protein-packed.
• Versatile: Enjoy it on toast, in lettuce wraps, or straight from the bowl, offering flexibility in serving options.
• Quick and Easy: Comes together in just minutes, perfect for busy weekday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Protein-Packed Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – Mayo-Free Recipe

• Protein-Packed and Light: This egg salad replaces traditional mayo with cottage cheese, offering a creamy and protein-rich alternative that won’t weigh you down.
• Texture Harmony: From tender eggs to creamy avocado, each bite provides a delightful balance of textures.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Whether on toast, in lettuce wraps, or as a standalone dish, this recipe can be enjoyed in various ways.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just minutes, it’s perfect for busy weekdays and can even be prepared in advance.
• Energizing Meal: With 35 grams of protein per serving, you’ll feel satisfied and energized after enjoying this lunch.
• Family Favorite: Even skeptics of ‘healthy’ versions, like the blogger’s teenage son, prefer this mayo-free egg salad.
• Adaptable Ingredients: The recipe offers flexibility, allowing for personal preference adjustments in texture and flavor.
• Flavor Development: The salad tastes even better after resting, making it an excellent make-ahead option for meal prep.
• Brunch Board Option: Pair this egg salad with fresh vegetables, whole grain crackers, and fruit for a beautiful brunch board.
• Expert Tips: Helpful hints such as using room temperature eggs, the ice bath method, and seasoning gradually enhance the cooking experience.

Ingredients for Protein-Packed Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – Mayo-Free

Main Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Pinch of black pepper
• Pinch of smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup cottage cheese
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish or diced pickles

For Serving

• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• 2 slices sourdough bread

Pro Tips for Protein-Packed Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – Mayo-Free

Pro Tip 1: To achieve the perfect texture, avoid overmixing the ingredients. You want distinct pieces of egg in the salad for a satisfying mouthfeel. Consider pulsing the cottage cheese in a food processor for a smoother consistency if desired.

Pro Tip 2: Enhance the flavor profile by letting the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more delicious and well-rounded dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Pro Tip 3: When preparing a larger batch for meal prep, add the fresh avocado slices just before serving to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. This will ensure that each serving is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

How to Make Protein-Packed Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – Mayo-Free

Step 1: Step 01

Boil eggs in a pot of water for 9 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to cool. Peel once cooled.

Step 2: Step 02

Cook eggs in an air fryer at 270°F for 12 minutes. Remove and transfer to an ice bath to cool before peeling.

Step 3: Step 03

In a medium bowl, mash peeled eggs with a fork, then mix in cottage cheese, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and relish or diced pickles.

Step 4: Step 04

Toast sourdough bread slices, top with avocado slices, and spoon egg salad on top.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo, store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad tastes even better after resting for about 30 minutes in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together. Additionally, make sure to add fresh avocado slices just before serving to maintain their freshness and prevent browning.

For longer-term storage, you can make a double batch of the egg salad and store it in individual portion-sized containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. The salad’s flavors actually develop nicely after a day in the refrigerator, making it a convenient make-ahead option. Just remember to consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and texture. Enjoy the egg salad on toast, in lettuce wraps, or straight from the bowl for a protein-packed and satisfying meal that will keep you feeling energized and satisfied.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the cottage cheese with silken tofu. Silken tofu offers a similar creamy texture and protein content to cottage cheese, making it a suitable replacement in this recipe. Additionally, you can add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the slight tanginess of cottage cheese.

If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can swap the smoked paprika for regular paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the egg salad to your taste preferences. Dill, chives, or tarragon can be excellent choices to add freshness and depth of flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this innovative Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese on toasted sourdough bread and top with fresh avocado slices for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast or lunch option. For an elegant presentation, consider spooning the egg salad into lettuce cups and garnishing with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and a drizzle of olive oil.

Create a beautiful brunch spread by offering this protein-packed egg salad alongside a variety of fresh vegetables, crackers, and fruits. Encourage guests to build their open-faced sandwiches with the egg salad, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of black pepper for a customizable and flavorful meal.

FAQs for Protein-Packed Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – Mayo-Free

Can I use different types of bread for this egg salad?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for sourdough bread, feel free to use any bread you prefer or have on hand. Whole wheat bread, rye bread, or even a gluten-free option can work well as a base for this egg salad.

Can I make this egg salad in advance?

Yes, you can make this egg salad in advance. In fact, the flavors develop nicely after the salad has rested in the fridge for a bit. Prepare it a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. Add the fresh avocado slices just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.

Is it necessary to use sweet pickle relish for this recipe?

No, it’s not necessary. While sweet pickle relish adds a tangy and crunchy element to the egg salad, you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences. If you’re not a fan of sweet pickles, you can omit them altogether or substitute with diced dill pickles for a different flavor profile.

Can I substitute cottage cheese with another ingredient?

If you’re looking to replace cottage cheese in this recipe, you can consider using Greek yogurt as a creamy alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still provide a protein-rich base for the egg salad.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo offers a delightful twist on the classic recipe, bringing a creamy, protein-packed option to your table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday lunch or a light and elegant brunch option, this salad delivers on both flavor and nutrition. The versatility of this dish allows you to get creative with different textures and variations to suit your preferences.

I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or serving it in unique ways. From the creamy cottage cheese to the fresh avocado slices, every bite of this egg salad is a celebration of fresh flavors and wholesome goodness. Elevate your meals with this mayo-free alternative that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.