This Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is a fresh twist on a classic, blending the rich, comforting flavors of hard-boiled eggs with the creamy tang of cottage cheese and a touch of mustard for depth. It’s light yet filling, perfect for those who want something satisfying without being overly heavy.
Ideal for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad comes together in just minutes and is highly customizable. Add fresh herbs for brightness, or load it onto crunchy toast or inside crisp lettuce wraps. It’s a great option for meal preppers, vegetarians, or anyone looking to boost their protein intake without extra fuss.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
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1 cup cottage cheese
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1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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2 tablespoons chopped green onions
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1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional toppings: paprika, microgreens, or sliced radish
Directions:
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In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped hard-boiled eggs with cottage cheese.
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Add Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard for added creaminess and flavor.
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Mix in green onions and chopped dill.
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Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Stir everything gently until well combined.
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Serve chilled, as a sandwich filling, with crackers, on lettuce cups, or over toast.
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Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, microgreens, or sliced radish for presentation.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for boiling eggs) | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal per serving | Servings: 2 servings
Cottage Cheese Egg Salad: A Creamy, Protein-Packed Classic with a Twist
When you think of egg salad, you probably picture the traditional version—mayonnaise-heavy, a bit indulgent, and often reserved for sandwiches or potlucks. But this cottage cheese egg salad is a fresh, wholesome, and modern take on the classic. It delivers all the creamy goodness you love while introducing a light, tangy base made from cottage cheese. Packed with protein, quick to prepare, and endlessly versatile, this salad is the kind of recipe you’ll keep returning to week after week.
A Nutritious Alternative to Traditional Egg Salad
Swapping out mayonnaise for cottage cheese isn’t just a trend—it’s a smart nutritional upgrade. Cottage cheese is high in protein, lower in fat, and contains less cholesterol than mayo, making this version of egg salad better aligned with a heart-healthy lifestyle. It also includes fresh herbs like dill and green onions, which not only elevate the flavor but add antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that benefit your immune system and digestion.
The creamy texture of cottage cheese pairs beautifully with the soft texture of hard-boiled eggs, offering a satisfying mouthfeel without any heaviness. A small amount of Greek yogurt can be added to enhance the creaminess even further while staying within the boundaries of whole, clean ingredients.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Schedules
This cottage cheese egg salad is incredibly convenient for meal prep. Whether you’re planning weekday lunches or looking for a high-protein snack, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Its simplicity makes it ideal for preparing in bulk—boil a batch of eggs ahead of time, and you’re halfway there. You can store it in a sealed container and enjoy it whenever you need something nourishing and ready to eat.
It also adapts beautifully to different serving ideas. Spoon it onto whole grain toast for a satisfying breakfast, wrap it in lettuce leaves for a low-carb lunch, or enjoy it straight from the bowl. You can even layer it into sandwiches, stuff it into pita bread, or serve it as a dip with crackers and sliced veggies. The options are endless.
Versatility in Flavors and Ingredients
One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to customize. Want to add more crunch? Mix in chopped celery or diced red bell peppers. Looking for a spicy kick? Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika, cayenne, or even a bit of hot sauce. If you’re craving umami, try topping it with sliced olives or a few sun-dried tomatoes.
Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives can take the flavor in new directions depending on what’s in your kitchen or garden. This flexibility makes it a wonderful recipe for home cooks who enjoy adapting dishes to fit their tastes and what’s already in the fridge.
Ideal for Various Diets
Cottage cheese egg salad fits easily into a variety of dietary lifestyles. It’s naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, making it ideal for keto and low-carb eaters. Vegetarians can enjoy it as a protein-packed main, while those following high-protein or calorie-conscious diets can appreciate its nutritional value without the need for heavily processed or high-fat ingredients.
Additionally, it’s a satiating option for those practicing intermittent fasting or those trying to maintain blood sugar levels throughout the day, thanks to its mix of proteins and healthy fats.
Why Cottage Cheese is a Star Ingredient
Cottage cheese is often overlooked in favor of trendier dairy products, but it deserves a spot in your kitchen—and this recipe proves why. It’s rich in casein protein, which digests slowly and helps keep you feeling full longer. This makes it particularly valuable for those looking to manage weight, build muscle, or reduce snack cravings between meals.
It’s also a source of essential nutrients such as B vitamins (especially B12), calcium for strong bones, and phosphorus, which supports energy production and cell repair. The mild flavor of cottage cheese also makes it a perfect vehicle for both savory and sweet combinations.
Eggs: A Nutrient Powerhouse
Let’s not overlook the hero of this recipe—eggs. Eggs are one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, offering high-quality protein, healthy fats, and a rich array of vitamins and minerals. They’re a particularly good source of choline, which supports brain and liver health. In this salad, hard-boiled eggs add substance, flavor, and a satisfying richness that balances out the lighter texture of the cottage cheese.
By combining eggs with cottage cheese, you get a double dose of protein without overloading on fat or calories, making this recipe a well-rounded choice for any meal of the day.
Great for All Occasions
Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, packing it for a lunchbox, or enjoying it as a light dinner, this salad fits right in. It’s elegant enough for a brunch spread yet simple enough to whip up in under 20 minutes on a weeknight.
You can even elevate its presentation with minimal effort. Serve it in a halved avocado, spoon it into endive leaves, or top it with microgreens and edible flowers for a restaurant-worthy dish. These small touches make it a favorite for entertaining guests while still being incredibly easy to make.
Storage and Freshness Tips
To get the most out of your cottage cheese egg salad, be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3–4 days. For optimal texture, stir before serving if it has been sitting for a while, as cottage cheese can release moisture. If you’re planning to serve it to guests, consider mixing in any fresh herbs right before serving to keep them vibrant and flavorful.
Avoid freezing this salad, as both cottage cheese and eggs don’t thaw well and can become watery or rubbery. Stick to small batches that you’ll consume within a few days for the best taste and quality.
Serving Suggestions
This egg salad is delightful when served on warm toast, especially sourdough, rye, or whole grain. It also pairs beautifully with crackers, especially multigrain or seed-based varieties. If you’re hosting a brunch, offer it as a topping bar with different breads, wraps, and fresh veggies so guests can build their own creations.
It also works well as a dip for sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or celery sticks, making it a wonderful addition to party platters. For a more filling meal, try pairing it with a bowl of soup or a fresh green salad.
Tips for the Best Flavor
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Use high-quality, organic eggs when possible for the best flavor and nutrition.
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Chill the salad before serving to allow the flavors to meld and enhance.
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Don’t skip the fresh herbs—they add brightness and depth.
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For a richer texture, experiment with blending part of the cottage cheese mixture before folding in the chopped eggs.
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A dash of lemon juice can add a refreshing zing and help balance the creamy base.
Conclusion
This cottage cheese egg salad is more than just a quick and easy recipe—it’s a smart, nourishing dish that brings together flavor, nutrition, and flexibility. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, add more protein to your meals, or simply looking for a fresh twist on a classic, this salad checks all the boxes. It’s proof that healthy food can be delicious, satisfying, and simple to make.
With its balance of creamy texture, zesty herbs, and the unbeatable nutrition of eggs and cottage cheese, it’s bound to become a go-to in your kitchen. Give it a try, customize it to suit your palate, and enjoy a dish that’s as wholesome as it is flavorful.