Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – no mayo!

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Posted on 3 November 2025

Delicious egg salad made with cottage cheese instead of mayo

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Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese – No Mayo!

Egg salad is a classic dish that often conjures up nostalgia, featuring as a staple in lunchboxes and picnic baskets. However, the conventional egg salad is usually heavy with mayonnaise, which can be a turn-off for those seeking a lighter alternative. If you’re on the lookout for a refreshing twist, consider using cottage cheese! This variation adds creaminess without the added calories and fat of mayo, making it a healthier and equally delicious option.

This Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese is incredibly versatile. It can serve as a protein-packed lunch, spread on toast, or a filling for your favorite sandwich. Plus, the combination of flavors from the spices and relish elevates this simple dish. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s rich in nutrients and flavor.

Ingredients

6 large eggs
The star ingredient, eggs provide protein and healthy fats while contributing a rich, creamy base for the salad.
½ cup cottage cheese
This ingredient replaces mayonnaise, adding a tangy flavor and creamy texture, while also boosting protein content without excess fat.
½ tsp salt
Salt enhances the flavors of the dish, bringing out the natural taste of the eggs and the cottage cheese.
Pinch of black pepper
A little black pepper adds subtle spiciness, which balances the creaminess of the cottage cheese.

Pinch of smoked paprika
This brings a smoky depth to the dish that complements the eggs beautifully.
1 tbsp sweet pickle relish or diced pickles
A hint of sweetness and tang from the relish perks up the egg salad, making every bite interesting.
2 slices sourdough bread
Toasted sourdough serves as a sturdy and flavorful base for the egg salad, adding texture.

½ avocado (sliced)
Creamy avocado enhances the overall richness while offering healthy fats and nutrients.

Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese - no mayo!

Directions & Preparation

Cook the Eggs: Boil a pot of water, add eggs, and boil for 9 minutes. For air fryer, air fry eggs at 270°F for 12 minutes. Transfer eggs to an ice bath to cool before peeling.
This boiling technique is fundamental as it ensures your eggs are hard-boiled perfectly without being overcooked. The ice bath rapidly halts the cooking process, preventing a rubbery texture and brightening the yolks.
Prepare the Egg Salad: In a bowl, mash the peeled eggs. Add cottage cheese, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir in relish or diced pickles if using.
Mashing the eggs creates a homogenous mixture, allowing the cottage cheese and spices to bind perfectly with the eggs. This step is essential for ensuring that every spoonful is a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Assemble: Toast the sourdough bread, place avocado slices on each toast, then add the egg salad.
Toasting the bread not only adds a crunchy texture but also enhances the flavor, providing a solid foundation for the egg salad. Avocado on top adds creaminess and makes it visually appealing.
Optional: Customize the egg salad with herbs or other ingredients to suit your taste.
Personalization is the key to a satisfying meal. Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley or incorporating chopped vegetables for additional crunch and nutrition.

Elevate Your Egg Salad

Swapping mayonnaise for cottage cheese not only transforms the dish’s health profile but also adds a delightful creaminess that you wouldn’t expect. This change can accommodate various dietary preferences and makes the egg salad a great choice for those who are watching their caloric intake or simply wish to enjoy a different flavor.

Also, the adaptability of this egg salad allows you to mix in seasonal ingredients, like diced tomatoes or cucumber. This versatility empowers you to be creative in the kitchen, tailoring your meal to match your cravings or what you have on hand.

Finally, adding a touch of smoked paprika introduces a warm, subtly smoky element. This not only elevates the flavor but also lends an appealing color that makes the dish stand out on any table setting.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with Greek yogurt or ricotta for a different texture and flavor, although the nutritional profile may vary.

What if my egg salad is too thick?
If the mixture seems too thick, simply stir in a tablespoon of water, Greek yogurt, or additional cottage cheese to reach your desired consistency.

Can I make this egg salad spicy?
Absolutely! Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up according to your preference.

Is this egg salad gluten-free?
Without the bread, this egg salad is gluten-free. You can serve it on gluten-free crackers or lettuce wraps for a suitable alternative.

How can I adjust the flavor if it’s too bland?
A little extra salt and pepper or an additional splash of pickle relish can bring the flavor to life. Tasting as you go is always recommended!

Can I add vegetables to the egg salad?
Definitely! Diced celery, onions, or bell peppers can add crunch and freshness, making the egg salad even more colorful and nutritious.

How long can I store the egg salad?
Store the egg salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but note that the quality may diminish over time.

Conclusion

Egg Salad with Cottage Cheese is not just a healthier alternative; it celebrates the beauty of simplicity while embracing versatility. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, serving it at a picnic, or simply craving a protein-rich snack, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction. Plus, the combination of flavors and textures ensures that every bite is a delight.

Give this recipe a try, and you may find yourself creating variations that become regular staples in your meal rotation. Embrace the creamy goodness of cottage cheese, and enjoy a classic dish reimagined!