Easy and Tasty 3-Ingredient Egg Salad Recipe for Every Week

By:

Grace Mueller

Published:

June 13, 2025

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Benefits and Advantages of egg salad

Egg salad is a quick and easy dish to prepare, making it ideal for anyone looking for a nutritious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Its simple preparation requires minimal ingredients and basic cooking skills, allowing for a hassle-free cooking experience. Nutritionally, egg salad is rich in high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals which contribute to muscle repair, brain health, and overall wellness. The healthy fats present in eggs support heart health and help maintain energy levels throughout the day. Egg salad stands out due to its versatility it can be served as a light snack, a hearty sandwich filling, or accompanied by fresh vegetables, catering to various meal occasions. Additionally, it can easily be adapted to meet dietary preferences such as low-carb or gluten-free diets, making it a flexible and health-conscious choice.

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Essential Ingredients for egg salad

6 large eggs, at room temperature
¼ cup finely diced red onion
¼ cup mayonnaise (fresh preferred; can substitute part with yogurt for extra creaminess)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons finely diced parsley
2 tablespoons finely diced chives (or substitute with dill or green onions)
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional additions: 1 teaspoon capers, avocado (substituting some mayo), grated carrots, curry powder, chopped dill pickles or relish, hot sauce, or jalapeños

These ingredients balance creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors while providing texture and nutrition to the egg salad.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your egg salad

Egg salad can be easily customized for various dietary needs and preferences. For vegan or egg-allergic individuals, mashed chickpeas or silken tofu provide a smooth texture and protein alternative, coupled with vegan mayonnaise to keep creaminess. Those seeking lower fat or calorie options can substitute traditional mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or avocado spread which add creaminess plus beneficial nutrients. This recipe is naturally gluten-free; however, confirm all condiments used are gluten-free for strict diets. For dairy-free versions, use vegan mayonnaise and skip yogurt. Unique flavors and textures can be introduced by adding diced pickles, onions, curry powder, or fresh herbs, accommodating personalized tastes while adhering to dietary restrictions.

How to Prepare the Perfect egg salad: Step-by-Step Guide

Cook the eggs: Place 6 large eggs into a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, turn off the heat and cover the pot, allowing the eggs to cook gently for 10–12 minutes for perfectly hard-boiled eggs.
Cool and peel: Transfer eggs immediately to an ice water bath for at least 15 minutes to stop cooking and ease peeling. Peel carefully, keeping whites intact for better texture.
Chop and combine: Cut the peeled eggs into medium chunks and place in a mixing bowl. Add ¼ cup mayonnaise (or your preferred substitute) and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
Add crunch and seasoning: Mix in ¼ cup finely diced red onion, 2 tablespoons parsley, 2 tablespoons chives, and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Mix gently: Fold the ingredients together gently to keep the salad slightly chunky for a pleasant mouthfeel. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Chill for flavor: Refrigerate the egg salad for about 20 minutes before serving so flavors meld and texture improves.
Serve: Enjoy as a sandwich filling, on crackers, or over fresh greens. Add optional ingredients like capers or avocado for extra flavor and creaminess as desired.

This step-by-step guide ensures creamy, flavorful egg salad that perfectly balances taste and texture for any occasion.

Mastering egg salad: Advanced Tips and Variations

To make your egg salad stand out, start by using free-range or organic eggs for better flavor and nutrition. When boiling eggs, adding a pinch of baking soda to the water helps shells peel easily, resulting in smooth, whole eggs perfect for chopping. For extra creaminess, blend mayonnaise with a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Fresh herbs like tarragon, chives, or cilantro bring distinct flavors that add depth.

Try mixing in chopped pickles, capers, or a dash of curry powder for a twist. If you enjoy spice, diced jalapeños or hot sauce can give a subtle kick. To keep the salad fresh longer, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar which also balances flavors. For texture variation, toasted nuts or seeds work nicely. These tips allow you to customize your egg salad, keeping it versatile and exciting while maintaining its classic appeal.

How to Store egg salad: Best Practices

Store egg salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. It will stay safe and tasty for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing egg salad because mayonnaise-based dishes often separate and change texture when thawed. If you must freeze, separate the eggs from the dressing before freezing, then mix fresh ingredients after thawing. Always use clean utensils when serving and label containers with the storage date. Keeping egg salad properly stored ensures food safety and preserves its creamy, delicate texture.

Nutritional Value of egg salad

Nutrient	Approximate Amount per Serving
Calories	197 kcal
Protein	8 g
Fat	16 g (Saturated Fat: 3 g)
Carbohydrates	1 g
Cholesterol	251 mg
Sodium	226 mg
Vitamin A	580 IU
Vitamin C	4.6 mg
Calcium	40 mg
Iron	1.3 mg

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About egg salad

How do I make hard-boiled eggs perfect for egg salad?

To make perfect hard-boiled eggs for egg salad, place eggs in a pot and cover them with cold water by an inch. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Let the eggs cook gently for 12 minutes. Once done, immediately transfer the eggs to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier. This method results in firm whites and creamy yolks, ideal for chopping into egg salad.

How long can I keep egg salad in the refrigerator?

Egg salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. Avoid leaving egg salad at room temperature longer than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth. If the ambient temperature is high, reduce this time to 1 hour. Always check the salad’s smell and texture before consuming after storage.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in egg salad?

Plain Greek yogurt is a popular substitute for mayonnaise in egg salad. It provides creaminess with less fat and adds a slight tang. Alternatively, you can mix half mayo and half yogurt or use avocado for a creamy texture. These options also increase the nutritional value while maintaining the salad’s smooth consistency.

Are there ways to customize egg salad if I don’t like mustard or lemon juice?

Yes, if you dislike mustard, you can simply omit it or add a splash of pickle juice to maintain tanginess. For those allergic to citrus or avoiding lemon juice, mild vinegars like apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or fruit juices such as mango or pineapple can be used to brighten the flavor without overpowering the dish.

What are some tasty ways to serve egg salad besides sandwiches?

Egg salad can be served in various ways beyond traditional sandwiches. Try it wrapped in lettuce leaves or as a filling for tortillas with fresh veggies. It also pairs well as a topping for crackers or served over a bed of mixed greens for a light salad. Adding microgreens or slices of avocado can add texture and freshness.