This Bariatric Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a tasty twist on a classic dish! It mixes creamy cottage cheese with hard-boiled eggs and crunchy veggies for a fun, healthy meal.
Honestly, it’s so good that you might forget it’s healthy! I love putting it on whole grain toast or enjoying it as a snack. Who said salads can’t be cozy? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are the star here! If you prefer, you could use egg whites instead for fewer calories. Just remember to adjust the amount since egg whites can be softer in texture.
Cottage Cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese gives this salad creaminess and protein. If cottage cheese isn’t your favorite, you can try ricotta cheese, but it will change the texture slightly!
Light Mayonnaise/Greek Yogurt: I enjoy using Greek yogurt for its tangy flavor and extra protein. If you’re lactose intolerant or looking for lower fat, vegan mayo is a great alternative.
Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a nice kick. If you want a milder flavor, regular yellow mustard works too! You can even omit it completely if you prefer.
Veggies: Celery and green onions add crunch and freshness. Feel free to mix it up; bell peppers or diced pickles could also be delightful additions!
How Do I Make Sure My Eggs Are Perfectly Hard-Boiled?
Getting hard-boiled eggs just right can be tricky. Here’s my go-to method:
- Start with cold water covering the eggs by about an inch.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, cover the pot, turn off the heat, and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes.
- Transfer eggs to an ice bath (cold water with ice) for about 5 minutes to help stop the cooking.
This will give you perfectly cooked eggs that are easy to peel and not overcooked inside! Enjoy making your egg salad!
Bariatric Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus time for boiling the eggs (around 10-12 minutes for hard-boiling). If you’re using leftover cooked eggs, you can make this salad in under 10 minutes! It’s quick and perfect for a busy day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Eggs:
Start by placing the eggs in a pot and covering them with cold water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid, turn off the heat, and let them sit for about 10-12 minutes. After that, move the eggs to a bowl of cold water to cool. Once cool, peel the eggs and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, light mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), and Dijon mustard. Use a fork or a whisk to mix well until you have a smooth consistency.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the chopped eggs, celery, and green onions to your cottage cheese mixture. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything without breaking up the eggs too much.
4. Season the Salad:
Now sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir carefully until all ingredients are evenly distributed, keeping some egg chunks for texture.
5. Serve It Up:
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. For a beautiful finish, dust a little paprika on top and add a sprig of fresh parsley for color.
6. Enjoy:
This salad is delicious served chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy it on whole wheat bread, as a dip with veggies, or simply on a bed of greens!
This Bariatric Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is not only high in protein but also lower in fat, making it a tasty and nutritious option that fits well into a healthier lifestyle. Enjoy the freshness and flavor!
Can I Use Egg Substitutes for This Recipe?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, you can use egg substitutes like egg whites or a commercial egg replacer. Keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly, so adding more seasoning might be necessary!
What Can I Use Instead of Cottage Cheese?
If cottage cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. Ricotta cheese is another option, but it will create a different consistency. Just ensure your substitute maintains a protein-rich profile!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate while stored. Enjoy as a quick snack or meal!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. You can add chopped bell peppers, diced pickles, or even shredded carrots for extra crunch and nutrition. Just remember to keep it balanced for a satisfying texture!
