Best Egg Salad Recipe

The Creamiest Best Egg Salad Recipe for Dreamy Sandwiches

Crafting the best egg salad demands creativity and a touch of culinary magic.

creamy, dreamy textures blend with zesty herbs in this classic dish.

Chopped eggs become a canvas for delightful flavor combinations.

Fresh ingredients elevate this simple sandwich staple to new heights.

Crisp celery and tangy mustard create unexpected depth in every bite.

Seasoned home cooks know that simplicity often yields the most remarkable results.

Prepare to embark on a taste adventure that will make your lunch legendary.

Creamy Egg Salad: What Makes This Version Best

  • Enjoy this creamy delight as a sandwich filling, lettuce wrap, or standalone dish, giving you multiple ways to savor the rich, tangy flavors.
  • Impress family and friends with a classic recipe that comes together in minutes, ideal for casual lunches, picnics, or spontaneous gatherings that call for a satisfying meal.
  • Easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or crunchy mix-ins to create a personalized egg salad that suits your taste preferences and culinary creativity.

Egg Salad Ingredients for Creamy Perfection

Eggs:
  • Large Eggs: Fresh eggs with rich, creamy yolks that create the base of this classic salad.
Creamy Binders:
  • Mayonnaise, Dijon Mustard: Smooth condiments that add tangy flavor and help bind the egg salad together.
Fresh Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Celery, Green Onions, Salt, Pepper: Crisp vegetables and seasonings that provide texture, sharpness, and balanced seasoning to enhance the egg salad's overall taste.

How to Make Ultimate Creamy Egg Salad at Home

Step 1: Perfectly Boil Eggs

Fill a saucepan with cold water, carefully submerge eggs to prevent cracking.

Bring water to a rolling boil over high heat.

Once boiling, cover the pan and remove from heat.

Let eggs sit in hot water for exactly 12 minutes to achieve that dreamy, tender texture.

Step 2: Create Cooling Shock Bath

Prepare a large bowl filled with ice and cold water.

Quickly transfer boiled eggs into this icy bath using a slotted spoon.

Let eggs chill for 5-7 minutes, which stops the cooking process and makes peeling a breeze.

Step 3: Master Egg Peeling Technique

Gently tap eggs on a hard surface to create small cracks.

Peel eggs under cool running water, which helps remove shells more smoothly.

Rinse each peeled egg to eliminate any stubborn shell fragments.

Step 4: Chop and Blend Flavors

Dice eggs into delightful bite-sized chunks.

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Creamy mayonnaise
  • Zesty Dijon mustard
  • Finely chopped celery
  • Sliced green onions
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Fold ingredients together gently, maintaining a rustic, chunky texture.

Step 5: Enhance Flavor Profile

Cover the egg salad and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes.

This resting time allows flavors to mingle and develop a more profound taste experience.

Step 6: Serve with Flair

Spread on toasted bread, stuff into lettuce wraps, or enjoy as a standalone dish.

Pair with crisp pickles, crunchy chips, or fresh cucumber slices for added excitement.

Tips for Super Creamy Egg Salad Every Time

  • Roll boiled eggs gently on a hard surface to crack shells evenly, making peeling smoother and faster.
  • Chop eggs with a sharp knife for chunky salad or use a pastry cutter for creamier consistency, depending on your preference.
  • Use full-fat mayonnaise for rich flavor, or swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy version that cuts calories.
  • Add extra diced celery or chopped pickles for a satisfying crunch that elevates the classic egg salad texture.
  • Sprinkle fresh herbs like dill or chives to brighten the dish and add a fresh, aromatic dimension to the classic recipe.

How to Store & Reheat Leftover Egg Salad

  • Transfer egg salad to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Always keep chilled and seal tightly to maintain freshness.
  • Avoid freezing egg salad as mayonnaise-based mixtures separate and become watery when thawed, compromising texture and taste.
  • Consume egg salad cold directly from the refrigerator. Do not microwave or reheat, as this can cause bacterial growth and ruin the creamy consistency.
  • Discard egg salad if it develops an off smell, unusual color, or sits at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illness.

Egg Salad Sides and Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Complement the creamy egg salad with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, whose bright acidity cuts through the richness and enhances the dish's delicate flavors.
  • Serve on Artisan Sourdough: Elevate the egg salad experience by using thick-cut, tangy sourdough bread that provides a robust base and contrasting texture to the smooth, creamy mixture.
  • Match with Crunchy Accompaniments: Add dill pickles, kettle-cooked potato chips, or crisp cucumber slices on the side to introduce a satisfying crunch that balances the soft egg salad.
  • Select Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chives, dill, or parsley on top to bring a vibrant, green freshness that lifts the overall flavor profile and adds a visual pop to the dish.

Egg Salad Recipe Variations for a Twist

  • Greek Yogurt Egg Salad: Replace mayonnaise with protein-rich Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-calorie version that maintains creamy texture.
  • Avocado Egg Salad: Substitute half the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for extra healthy fats and a vibrant green color.
  • Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap Option: Skip bread entirely and serve the egg salad in crisp lettuce leaves for a keto-friendly and gluten-free alternative.
  • Spicy Sriracha Egg Salad: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce to introduce a zesty kick and complex heat to the traditional recipe.

FAQs

  • Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that provides similar creaminess and tanginess to the egg salad. Use plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture and flavor.

  • How long can I keep the egg salad in the refrigerator?

The egg salad stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

  • What's the best way to prevent my eggs from cracking during boiling?

Adding a splash of vinegar to the water and starting with eggs at room temperature helps prevent cracking. Gently lower eggs into the water using a spoon to avoid sudden impacts.

  • Can I add extra ingredients to customize my egg salad?

Absolutely! Try adding diced bacon, chopped herbs like dill or chives, or a sprinkle of paprika to enhance the flavor and add extra texture to your egg salad.

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Best Egg Salad Recipe

Best Egg Salad Recipe


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4.7 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy, zesty egg salad delights with perfectly chopped hard-boiled eggs blended in a tangy mayonnaise mix. Fresh herbs and a hint of mustard elevate this classic sandwich filling, promising a delicious lunch that you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) Dijon mustard

Vegetables:

  • 1/4 cup (40 grams) celery, finely chopped
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Seasonings:

  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Carefully place eggs in a medium saucepan, ensuring they are fully submerged in cold water, then bring to a rolling boil over high heat for 10-12 minutes.
  2. Immediately transfer eggs to a prepared ice water bath, allowing them to cool completely for 5-7 minutes to halt the cooking process and facilitate easier peeling.
  3. Peel eggs under gentle running water, carefully removing shells to maintain egg integrity and prevent tearing.
  4. Finely chop peeled eggs into uniform, bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife, maintaining a slightly chunky texture.
  5. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine chopped eggs with creamy mayonnaise, tangy Dijon mustard, finely diced crisp celery, and thinly sliced green onions.
  6. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, gently folding ingredients to ensure even distribution without mashing the eggs.
  7. Cover the egg salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and develop a richer taste profile.
  8. Serve chilled on toasted whole grain bread, inside lettuce wraps, or as a delightful accompaniment to crunchy pickles and kettle chips.

Notes

  • Swap mayo for Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to create a lighter, healthier version of the egg salad.
  • Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives for an extra flavor boost.
  • For a low-carb option, serve the egg salad in crisp lettuce cups or cucumber boats instead of bread.
  • Ensure eggs are not overcooked by using a timer and immediately transferring to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and maintain a creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 370mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

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