This homemade egg salad is a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for lunch, snacks, or meal prep. Made with creamy mayonnaise, tangy mustard, and fresh herbs, this recipe is quick, protein-packed, and incredibly tasty. Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich, on crackers, or as a dip, this classic egg salad is a must-try! creamy, flavorful, and easy to make! Perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or a healthy snack.
Why Egg Salad is a Must-Try Dish
Egg salad is more than just a quick meal—it’s packed with protein, customizable to your taste, and incredibly satisfying. Here’s why you should try making it at home:
- Affordable & Simple – Uses basic ingredients that are easily available.
- High in Protein – A great option for a nutritious meal.
- Quick to Prepare – Takes only about 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Versatile – Can be served in sandwiches, on toast, or as a dip.
Ingredients
The key to an amazing egg salad lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped celery
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill (chopped)
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- 1 tsp lemon juice (for a tangy kick)
- 1 tbsp pickles or relish
- 1 tbsp crumbled bacon
- ½ avocado (mashed) for a creamy texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Boil Eggs Perfectly
- Place eggs in a saucepan and cover them with cold water.
- Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, cover the pan, turn off the heat, and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes.
- Transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier.
Peeling the Eggs Easily
- Tap the eggs on a hard surface and roll them gently to loosen the shell.
- Peel under running water to help separate the shell from the egg white.
Mixing the Ingredients for the Perfect Consistency
- Chop the boiled eggs into small chunks or mash them slightly with a fork.
- In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise, mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add in chopped celery, onions, and parsley.
- Gently fold in the eggs, mixing until everything is well combined.
Variations and Customizations
Egg salad is highly adaptable! Here are some delicious twists:
- Healthy Egg Salad: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- Spicy Egg Salad: Add a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil, chives, or cilantro for an herby twist.
- Cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar or crumbled feta.
How to Store Egg Salad Properly
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It stays fresh for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing, as the texture may become watery when thawed.
Best Ways to Serve
- Classic Egg Salad Sandwich – Serve on toasted bread or a croissant.
- Lettuce Wraps – A low-carb option wrapped in romaine or iceberg lettuce.
- On Crackers or Toast – A great appetizer or snack.
- Stuffed Avocados – A creative, healthy serving idea.
Health Benefits
Egg salad is not just tasty—it’s nutritious too!
- High in Protein – Supports muscle growth and energy.
- Rich in Healthy Fats – Good for brain health and metabolism.
- Packed with Vitamins – Eggs contain B12, D, and choline for overall well-being.
- Low in Carbs – A great option for keto and low-carb diets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Eggs – This leads to a dry, rubbery texture.
- Not Chilling the Eggs – Makes peeling difficult.
- Using Too Much Mayo – Results in a runny consistency.
- Skipping the Seasoning – Salt, pepper, and mustard enhance the flavor.
FAQs
1. How do I prevent my egg salad from getting watery?
Ensure your eggs are fully cooled before mixing and avoid adding too much mayonnaise.
2. Can I make egg salad without mayonnaise?
Yes! Substitute with Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or hummus for a creamy texture.
3. What type of mustard works best in egg salad?
Dijon mustard provides a rich and tangy flavor, but yellow mustard is a great alternative.
4. How can I make my egg salad last longer?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
5. What is the best bread for an egg salad sandwich?
Try brioche, croissants, sourdough, or whole-grain bread for a delicious texture contrast.
Egg salad is a simple, satisfying, and customizable dish that never goes out of style. Whether you’re making it for lunch, a picnic, or a protein-packed snack, following these tips will ensure the best results every time. Try different variations and serving styles to find your perfect match!
Print
Egg Salad
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy homemade egg salad is creamy, rich, and packed with flavor! Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or a healthy protein-packed snack.
Ingredients
Basic Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped celery
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill (chopped)
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- 1 tsp lemon juice (for a tangy kick)
- 1 tbsp pickles or relish
- 1 tbsp crumbled bacon
- ½ avocado (mashed) for a creamy texture
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Eggs
- Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, cover, turn off the heat, and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes.
- Transfer the eggs to an ice bath for at least 5 minutes.
Step 2: Peel and Chop the Eggs
- Tap the eggs on a hard surface and roll them to loosen the shell.
- Peel under running water for easy removal.
- Chop the eggs into small pieces.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add chopped celery, red onion, and parsley.
- Gently fold in the chopped eggs.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve on toast, sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or crackers.
- Enjoy immediately or chill in the refrigerator for better flavor.
Notes
Use fresh eggs for the best taste and texture.
Don’t overcook eggs to avoid a rubbery texture.
Chill the eggs before peeling for easy removal.
Adjust mayo-to-egg ratio for your desired creaminess.
Experiment with mix-ins like avocado, bacon, or pickles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes