Cottage Cheese Egg Salad: A Protein-Packed, Creamy Delight for Every Meal
Discovering the Magic of Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
Hello, fellow food lovers! Chances are, if you’re like me, you’re always searching for a tasty dish full of nutrients. Today, I’m excited to share one of my go-to healthy options: Cottage Cheese Egg Salad. You’ll love this simple but satisfying salad with creamy cottage cheese and eggs packed with protein, making it the ideal meal choice for anyone looking to eat clean.
I first discovered cottage cheese egg salad while trying to increase my protein intake without sacrificing flavor. It’s quickly become a favorite for several reasons, not only because it’s good but also because it’s SO versatile. This salad is preppy if you’re prepping it ahead of time for a busy week or quick Lunchable if you whip it up in no time at all.
Why You’ll Love Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
If nutrient-dense, high-protein meals are your thing, you have much to love about this dish. Here’s why you’ll want to make this salad again and again:
- Rich in Protein: This salad is an excellent protein source from cottage cheese and hard-boiled eggs. If you’re into staying full for longer or building muscle, it’s great.
- Low in Carbs: If you’re following a low-carb, keto, or low-carb, this is a no-fail salad: it’s naturally low in carbs and still full of flavor.
- Quick and Easy: What a fast and easy salad! Made with just a handful of ingredients. It’s a perfect meal prep or a quick meal option if you’re on a busy day.
- Customizable: You can adjust this recipe to your taste — a bit of extra crunch or a flavor boost. Add your favorite herbs, lady hand mustard, or some avocado for extra creaminess.
Cottage Cheese Egg Salad: A Protein-Packed, Creamy Delight for Every Meal
Course: Salads, SidesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy3
servings10
minutes10
minutes300
kcalLow-carb Cottage Cheese Egg Salad contains protein and is made with hard-boiled eggs as well as cottage cheese. This smooth and creamy salad is extremely versatile, quick to prepare or ideal for meal preparation. Add herbs, avocado, or other vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture. It is ideal for those watching their weight, as it is easy, delicious, and healthy.
Ingredients
Four large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, depending on your preference)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
1/4 cup chopped chives or green onions
1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
1/2 avocado, diced, for added creaminess
1 tbsp mayonnaise for a richer texture
Chopped celery or cucumber for extra crunch
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill
Directions
- Boil and Peel the Eggs
Start by boiling your eggs. Put eggs in a pot, add room temperature, cover with cold water, and cook. Boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes. Then cool them down under cold water, peel, and cut eggs into pieces for a bite. - Prepare the Salad Base
Combine cottage cheese, chopped chives or green onions, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well by stirring. - Combine and Adjust Seasoning
Gently fold the chopped eggs into cottage cheese mixture and mix until all is well coated. Season with more salt and pepper to taste. - Customize Your Salad
It’s time to add any optional ingredients at this stage. Throw in a few diced avocados for creaminess, some celery for crunch, or a splash of fresh herbs to help punch up the flavor. - Serve and Enjoy!
The salad immediately serves itself, with crackers or in a sandwich. Or for meal prep, refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
Recipe Video
Notes
- This Cottage Cheese Egg Salad recipe makes a healthy, quick, and protein-rich meal ideal for everyone. It is customizable, low carb, and great for meal prep. It employs basic ingredients and numerous variations. It is a wholesome and delicious meal that is suitable for hectic lifestyles.
Types of Condiments to Use in Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
The condiments you use will change the flavor of this salad, but it’s versatile, so you can make it any way you want. Here are some options to try:
- Greek Yogurt: If you want to make this even lighter, swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. The tangy flavor of anise oil adds a touch of something to keep the salad creamy and rich in protein.
- Lemon Juice: Adding a little fresh lemon juice squeeze can brighten the salad, cutting the creaminess of the cottage cheese.
- Spices and Seasonings: If you want the spicier version, a dash of paprika or red pepper flakes will do it. You can also mix in some garlic powder or onion powder to boost flavor.
- Balsamic Glaze: To get a bit sweeter and more tangy, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving. Then, it gives the rich flavors a delightful contrast that adds depth.
Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
This Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that make it a perfect healthy meal option:
- Eggs: High-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like B12 and D are automatically in these eggs. It helps with muscle building and makes you feel full for longer.
- Cottage Cheese: Protein and calcium are excellent for repairing muscle and are plentiful in cottage cheese. It’s also lower in fat than most cheeses.
- Chives or Green Onions: These are little calories and loaded with antioxidants that help with immune function; these add flavor and can be eaten as low calories.
- Optional Add-Ins: Avocado and celery bring texture, heart, heart-healthy fats, and digestive wellness!
Serving and Storing Tips
But this salad is pretty good – you can prep it ahead of time, and it’ll keep for a long time (in the fridge), so it’s great for meal prepping or grab-and-go snacks. Here are some tips:
- Serve With: Eating it by itself is tasty, but it’s also suitable as a sandwich filling, on toast, or as a topping for crackers for a lighter snack. You can wrap it in lettuce leaves if you want it for the low-carb option.
- Storage: For three days, keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. If you add avocado, this may be an excellent place to do it right before serving to prevent browning.
Conclusion: A Salad for All Occasions
There you have it—my take on the Cottage Cheese Egg Salad! But this salad is also protein- and nutrient-rich, versatile, and delicious! This salad will fit in as a quick lunch, a protein-packed snack, or a meal prep dish in your kitchen.
I can’t wait to hear HOW you customize your version of this salad. Share how in the comments if you made it your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
This salad can be made ahead of time with a pretty good shelf life of up to three days in the fridge. If the avocado is delicate (as it should be), just add it before serving.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
If guests can’t eat dairy, swap the dairy-filled cottage cheese for a dairy-free option such as almond or soy-based cottage cheese.
What other vegetables can I add?
Please feel free to add your favorite crunchy veggies! Additions: chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, shredded carrots.