This Old Fashioned Egg Salad is creamy and comforting with perfectly boiled eggs and a hint of tang. It’s great for sandwiches or just on crackers for a quick snack!
I love how simple it is to whip up, and it reminds me of family picnics. Just mix, mash, and spread! You can never go wrong with extra pickles in there, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are the heart of this egg salad. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can mix in a few egg whites with the yolks for a healthier twist. You can also try using hard-boiled egg substitutes available at some stores.
Mayonnaise: Classic mayonnaise adds creaminess to the salad. If you’re watching your calories or prefer a vegan option, try plant-based mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead. Both give a nice texture while adding flavor.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient gives a tangy flavor to the salad. If you don’t have Dijon on hand, yellow mustard works fine, though it will be a bit milder. For an interesting twist, consider adding whole grain mustard.
Sweet Pickle Relish: It adds a touch of sweetness. If you’d rather not use it, finely chopped sweet pickles or even a splash of sweet pickle juice can be a substitute. You can also skip it and add some diced apple for sweetness.
Celery and Green Onions: These add crunch and flavor. If you aren’t a celery fan, diced bell peppers or cucumber make a great replacement. For green onions, shallots or finely chopped onion work well.
How Do You Boil Eggs Perfectly Without Overcooking Them?
Boiling eggs may seem simple, but it’s easy to overcook them, leading to a greenish hue around the yolk. Here’s a foolproof method:
- Start with cold water just covering the eggs.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, cover the pan and remove it from heat. Let it sit for 12 minutes.
- Always move the eggs to an ice bath right after draining to stop the cooking process. This makes peeling easier, too.
Following these tips guarantees you’ll have perfectly hard-boiled eggs, ready to shine in your egg salad!
Old Fashioned Egg Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika (for garnish)
- Bread or lettuce leaves (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare: around 12 minutes to boil the eggs, 5 minutes to cool them, and just a few minutes to mix everything together. It’s a quick and delicious dish perfect for a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Eggs:
Start by placing the 6 large eggs in a saucepan. Cover them with cold water, making sure the water is about an inch above the eggs. Put the saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Once the water comes to a boil, cover the pan and remove it from the heat. Let the eggs sit in the hot water for 12 minutes.
2. Cool the Eggs:
After 12 minutes, carefully drain the hot water from the saucepan. Transfer the eggs into a bowl filled with ice water (this is called an ice bath) and let them cool for about 5 minutes. This will make peeling the eggs easier!
3. Chop the Eggs:
Once the eggs are cool, gently peel them and chop them into small pieces. You can do this by cutting them with a knife or using a fork to mash them up a bit if you prefer a creamier texture.
4. Mix the Salad:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped eggs, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish, 1/4 cup finely chopped celery, and 1/4 cup chopped green onion. Mix everything together well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
5. Season the Egg Salad:
Now it’s time to season! Add salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like, you can sprinkle a little paprika on top for some color and added flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your egg salad is ready to eat! Serve it on slices of bread for a delicious sandwich, or scoop it onto lettuce leaves for a light, fresh salad. Enjoy your homemade egg salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or even use avocado mayo for a creamy texture with healthy fats. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly depending on the mayo you choose!
How Long Will This Egg Salad Last in the Fridge?
This egg salad can last in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Just make sure to keep it well-sealed to maintain freshness. If you notice any changes in smell or texture, it’s best to discard it.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the egg salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It’s even better after a few hours as the flavors meld together. Just give it a good stir before serving!
What Can I Use Instead of Sweet Pickle Relish?
If you’re not a fan of sweet pickle relish, you can substitute it with diced dill pickles for a more tangy flavor. Alternatively, finely chopped capers can add a nice briny taste!
