Name: Classic Egg Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 6 eggs; 0.25 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons red onion (minced); 1 tablespoon parsley leaves (minced); 0.5 stalk celery (chopped fine (about 3 tablespoons)); 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 0.25 teaspoon salt; Ground black pepper

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-made Classic Egg Salad. I remember the first time I tried making it myself. It was a sunny afternoon, and I had just come back from the farmer’s market, excited about the fresh ingredients I had picked up. The thought of creamy mayonnaise, crunchy celery, and perfectly boiled eggs coming together in harmony felt like a culinary dream. As I chopped and mixed, I could already envision serving it on a crusty piece of bread, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley. That first bite was heaven—smooth, rich, yet light, and bursting with flavor. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies but also brings back warm memories of gatherings and simple joys.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
190 kcal

Protein:
7 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
17 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Peeler, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl

Why We Love This Classic Egg Salad

A Comforting Classic

There’s just something about Classic Egg Salad that makes it a timeless favorite. The creamy texture makes it incredibly satisfying. When you take a bite, it’s like a hug for your taste buds. It’s the kind of dish that resonates with many people—whether it’s a picnic, a quick lunch, or a gathering with friends, it never disappoints.

Versatile Ingredients

What I love most about this recipe is how the ingredients come together, each playing an essential role in creating the perfect balance. The richness of the mayonnaise combines beautifully with the tangy notes from the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. The red onion adds a nice crunch and a hint of sharpness, while the celery provides freshness that brightens up the dish.

Easy to Customize

Another reason why I adore the Classic Egg Salad is its adaptability. You can easily tweak the recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Want to add a bit of spice? Toss in some jalapeños. Not a fan of mayonnaise? Consider using Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. This flexibility means you can make it your own each time.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This recipe is also fantastic for meal prep. You can whip up a big batch and store it in the fridge, making it a quick go-to for busy days. Just grab some bread or lettuce leaves, and you have a meal ready in minutes. It’s a lifesaver for those hectic weekdays when you don’t have much time to cook.

Family Favorite

In my family, it has become a staple during gatherings. Everyone has their own twist, and it sparks joy and laughter when we share our versions. It’s heartwarming to see how a simple dish can bring people together, creating lasting memories over good food.

Ingredient List for Classic Egg Salad

The ingredients for Classic Egg Salad are simple yet impactful. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the delightful harmony of flavors that makes this dish so beloved. From the protein-packed eggs to the creamy mayonnaise, these components work together to create a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

6 eggs: The star ingredient, providing protein and a creamy texture once boiled and diced.
¼ cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and depth of flavor. Adjust to your preference for a lighter or richer salad.
2 tablespoons minced red onion: Introduces a crunchy and slightly sharp element to contrast the creaminess.
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley leaves: Freshens up the mix with a pop of color and flavor.
½ stalk celery, chopped fine: Adds texture and a refreshing crunch, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Brings a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the salad, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise.
2 teaspoons lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing acidity.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Ground black pepper: Adds depth and a hint of heat to the salad.

Putting Together Classic Egg Salad

Making Classic Egg Salad is straightforward and fun! It’s all about boiling the eggs perfectly and mixing everything together for that creamy goodness. Here’s how to do it step-by-step.

Start by placing the eggs in a medium saucepan. Cover them with 1 inch of water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Turn the heat to high and bring the water to a rolling boil. Watching the water bubble away is satisfying and gets you excited for what’s to come.
Once the water is boiling, remove the pan from heat, cover it with a lid, and let it sit for 10 minutes. This resting time is crucial to ensure the eggs are cooked perfectly, yielding a creamy yolk.
While the eggs are resting, prepare an ice water bath in a medium bowl by filling it with 1 quart of cold water and adding ice cubes. This will stop the cooking process and make peeling the eggs much easier.
After 10 minutes, carefully transfer the eggs to the ice water bath using a slotted spoon. Let them sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the shells start to crack and cool off, making peeling a breeze.
Once cooled, gently tap each egg on a hard surface and peel off the shell. Rinse them under cold water to remove any stubborn bits of shell. Dice the peeled eggs into medium-sized pieces, allowing for a bit of texture in your salad.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced eggs with the other ingredients: mayonnaise, minced red onion, parsley, chopped celery, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. The smell of these ingredients together is simply amazing!
Gently mix all the ingredients together, ensuring the eggs are well coated in the mayonnaise and the flavors are evenly distributed. Be careful not to mash the eggs too much; you want to keep some of that delightful chunkiness.
Once combined, taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to your liking. The Classic Egg Salad should be creamy with a hint of tanginess that makes your mouth water.
Finally, transfer the salad into an airtight container. If you’re not serving it right away, you can cover and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, enhancing the overall taste.
When you’re ready to serve, scoop the Classic Egg Salad onto your favorite bread, crackers, or a bed of fresh greens. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Using fresh eggs is key to a great Classic Egg Salad. Fresher eggs will peel easier and result in a better texture.
Cooling the eggs in an ice bath is essential to prevent overcooking and to make peeling easier.
Don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the flavor and elevates the salad.
For extra flavor, consider letting the egg salad sit for a few hours in the fridge before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Recipe Variations about Classic Egg Salad

The Classic Egg Salad is a versatile dish that can be dressed up or down based on your tastes and dietary needs. Here are some variations to consider:

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist that will elevate your egg salad.
Herbed Delight: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill or cilantro to create unique flavor profiles.
Protein Boost: Mix in shredded chicken or tuna for added protein and a heartier meal.
Crunch Factor: Add chopped pickles or capers to enhance the crunch and tanginess of your salad.
Low-Cal Option: Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to reduce calories while still maintaining creaminess.
Whole Grain Goodness: Serve on whole grain or seeded bread for a nutritious and filling option.
Breakfast Twist: Serve atop a toasted bagel with a slice of avocado for a breakfast-inspired take.

What to Serve Alongside Classic Egg Salad

When it comes to serving Classic Egg Salad, there are endless possibilities that can complement the creamy goodness beautifully. Here are some ideas:

Crusty Bread: Serve on a slice of fresh, toasted bread or in a sandwich for a classic lunch.
Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, scoop the salad onto crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and healthy serving style.
Chips or Crackers: Pair with crunchy chips or crackers for a delightful contrast in texture.
Seasonal Veggies: Serve alongside a platter of fresh, colorful seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.
Potato Salad: For a picnic or potluck, Classic Egg Salad pairs wonderfully with a side of potato salad for a classic duo.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can serve as a refreshing side, balancing the richness of the egg salad.
Soup: Pair with a light soup, such as tomato or minestrone, for a satisfying meal.

FAQ

For the best Classic Egg Salad, fresh, large eggs are ideal. Fresh eggs typically peel better after boiling, resulting in a smoother texture for your salad. If you can get farm-fresh eggs, that’s even better, as they often taste richer and more flavorful. Always make sure to check the expiration date if using store-bought eggs, and if possible, opt for organic or free-range for improved quality.

Absolutely! In fact, making Classic Egg Salad ahead of time can enhance its flavors. Once prepared, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume it within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness. Just remember to give it a quick stir before serving, as some separation may occur due to the ingredients settling. This makes it a perfect make-ahead option for lunches or picnics.

Classic Egg Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. You can serve it on toasted bread for a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or with crackers for a light snack. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with a side of vegetable soup or a fresh salad. It also goes well with seasonal veggies for a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

The beauty of Classic Egg Salad lies in its versatility. You can customize it by adding various ingredients to match your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you love herbs, mix in fresh dill, chives, or even basil for added flavor. You can also experiment with different types of mustard or vary the ratio of mayonnaise to suit your creaminess level. The options are nearly endless!

Conclusion

The Classic Egg Salad is a simple yet delicious recipe that brings together fresh ingredients for a flavorful experience. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner, and it’s easy to make your own with a few tweaks. I encourage you to try making this delightful dish at home; it could quickly become a family favorite!