This Bariatric Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a creamy and protein-packed delight! It mixes cottage cheese with hard-boiled eggs and a few tasty seasonings, making it healthy and filling.
It’s super easy to whip up, and I love adding a sprinkle of herbs to make it fancy. Serve it on toast or just enjoy it with a spoon—either way, it’s a winner! 🥚✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hard-boiled Eggs: These are the stars of the dish! They provide protein and a creamy texture. If you don’t have fresh eggs ready, pre-cooked and peeled hard-boiled eggs from the store can be a convenient alternative.
Cottage Cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese is key for creaminess and protein. If you’re lactose intolerant, try lactose-free cottage cheese or consider using silken tofu for a similar texture.
Greek Yogurt: This ingredient adds extra creaminess and tang. You can skip it if you prefer a lighter salad, or swap it with any neutral-flavored yogurt to keep it creamy without increasing calories.
Celery: Chopped celery gives a nice crunch. If you’re not a fan, diced bell pepper or cucumber can be great substitutes to keep the salad fresh.
Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them on hand, use finely chopped red onions, but use them sparingly as they can be stronger in flavor.
How Do You Make Sure Your Egg Salad Isn’t Mushy?
The key to a great egg salad is maintaining a chunky texture. Here’s how to nail it:
- Chop the hard-boiled eggs gently; don’t mash them. Aim for bite-sized pieces rather than a paste.
- Mix the ingredients just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to a mushy salad.
- Chill the salad before serving to let the flavors meld without losing the texture.
Enjoy your creamy and nutritious egg salad!
Bariatric Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious egg salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You just need a bit of time to chop the ingredients and mix everything together, and then it’s ready to chill. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for meal prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chop the Eggs:
Start by peeling and chopping the hard-boiled eggs into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a medium mixing bowl.
2. Combine with Cottage Cheese:
Add the low-fat cottage cheese to the bowl with the eggs. If you want a creamier texture, include the plain Greek yogurt at this point too!
3. Add Crunchy Vegetables:
Now, stir in the finely chopped celery and sliced green onions. These will add a nice crunch and fresh flavor to your salad.
4. Season the Mixture:
Next, drizzle in the Dijon mustard and sprinkle the paprika, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings are what give your egg salad a delightful kick!
5. Mix Gently:
Using a spatula or spoon, gently mix the ingredients together until they are well combined. Make sure to keep the eggs a bit chunky for texture!
6. Serve It Up:
Transfer the egg salad to a serving bowl and sprinkle a little extra paprika on top for that pop of color. Garnish with some fresh parsley for a lovely finish.
7. Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled! You can enjoy it on its own, or place it on low-carb bread or inside lettuce wraps for a light meal that’s perfect for a bariatric-friendly plan. Enjoy your healthy and tasty egg salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While low-fat cottage cheese adds great texture and protein, you can try using ricotta or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for alternatives. Just be mindful of the consistency to keep it creamy!
How Can I Store Leftover Egg Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken a bit in the fridge. If needed, add a touch of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to loosen it up.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to mix in diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even chopped pickles for added crunch and a flavor twist. Just keep in mind the moisture content of any extra veggies so it doesn’t become too wet.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this egg salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it up to a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and let the flavors meld together. It’s a fantastic option for quick lunches or snacks!
