Basic Egg Salad and Egg Salad Plus

Introduction

History

The origins of egg salad are somewhat murky, but it is believed to have emerged in the early 19th century when mayonnaise was first invented. As eggs were a common and affordable ingredient, combining them with the newly created mayonnaise quickly became popular. Over the years, various ingredients such as mustard, pickles, and spices have been added to enhance the flavor, resulting in the diverse range of egg salad recipes we see today.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best egg salad, start with perfectly hard-boiled eggs. To achieve this, place the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then cover and remove from heat. Let them stand in the hot water for about 12 minutes for large eggs. Cool the eggs under cold running water to stop the cooking process. This method helps prevent the green ring around the yolks and ensures easy peeling.

Serving Suggestions

Egg salad can be served in numerous ways. It's delicious on its own or as a filling for sandwiches and wraps. For a low-carb option, serve it atop a bed of mixed greens or in lettuce wraps. It also pairs well with crackers for a simple snack.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is properly boiling the eggs. Cooling them quickly after boiling not only stops the cooking process but also makes peeling easier. Mixing the ingredients gently ensures the eggs remain chunky, giving the salad a better texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of mayonnaise, you can use sour cream or a mashed avocado as a substitute. No pickles? Try capers or diced olives for a similar tangy flavor. Yellow mustard can be replaced with Dijon mustard for a more sophisticated taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Egg salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within 3-4 days. If preparing in advance, consider adding the pickles closer to serving time to maintain their crunch.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the egg salad in a hollowed-out tomato or avocado for an elegant presentation. Garnish with paprika and fresh herbs to enhance the visual appeal and add a burst of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Egg salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try iced tea or lemonade. Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Egg salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It does not freeze well and should not be reheated, as it is best enjoyed cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this basic egg salad contains approximately 200-250 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option for a meal or snack.

Carbohydrates

This basic egg salad recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet. The primary source of carbs in this recipe comes from the pickles and a small amount from the eggs. Each serving contains approximately 2-3 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Eggs and mayonnaise are the main sources of fats in this recipe. A serving of this egg salad contains about 15-20 grams of fat, depending on the type of mayonnaise used. The majority of the fat is unsaturated, which is considered a healthier type of fat.

Proteins

Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein. This egg salad recipe provides about 6-8 grams of protein per serving, making it a good option for a protein-rich snack or meal component.

Vitamins and minerals

Eggs are packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, B6, B12, selenium, and zinc. They also contain choline, which is important for brain health. The pickles add a small amount of Vitamin K and Vitamin A.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is eggs. Individuals with an egg allergy should avoid this dish. Additionally, some mayonnaise brands may contain soy or mustard, which are also common allergens.

Summary

Overall, this basic egg salad is a nutritious option that provides a good balance of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's low in carbohydrates and calories, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Summary

This basic egg salad recipe is a timeless classic that's easy to make and can be customized in countless ways. It's nutritious, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making a quick lunch, planning a picnic, or looking for a light dinner option, egg salad is a delicious choice that never disappoints.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha at her cozy little cottage by the sea. As we sat on her porch sipping iced tea and chatting about life, Martha suddenly got up and disappeared into her kitchen.

A few minutes later, she emerged with a bowl of the most delicious-looking egg salad I had ever seen. The eggs were perfectly boiled, the mayo was creamy, and the fresh herbs added a burst of flavor that made my mouth water. I couldn't resist asking her for the recipe.

Martha smiled and handed me a piece of paper with the instructions written in her elegant handwriting. "It's a family recipe passed down from my grandmother," she explained. "It's simple but oh so delicious."

I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. When I got home, I gathered the ingredients and followed Martha's instructions to a tee. The end result was a creamy and flavorful egg salad that instantly became a family favorite. Little did I know, this recipe would be the beginning of my love affair with egg salad.

Over the years, I experimented with different variations of the basic egg salad recipe. I added diced pickles for a tangy twist, chopped celery for some crunch, and a dash of paprika for a hint of spice. Each time, the egg salad turned out better than the last.

One day, while visiting my Aunt Helen in the countryside, I stumbled upon a new version of egg salad that would forever change the way I made this classic dish. Aunt Helen called it "Egg Salad Plus," and it was a game-changer.

Aunt Helen's recipe called for the usual ingredients – boiled eggs, mayo, and seasonings – but she also added a few unexpected twists. She mixed in some diced avocado for creaminess, chopped bacon for a salty crunch, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. The result was a decadent and flavorful egg salad that was unlike anything I had ever tasted.

I was amazed by how a few simple additions could transform a basic dish into something extraordinary. Aunt Helen's Egg Salad Plus quickly became a staple in my recipe collection, and I couldn't wait to share it with my friends and family.

As I shared my newfound recipe with loved ones, I realized that each person had their own unique way of making egg salad. Some added mustard for a zesty kick, others threw in olives for a briny bite, and a few even experimented with different herbs and spices.

I was inspired by the creativity and passion that went into each variation of egg salad. It was a dish that brought people together, sparking conversations and memories with every bite.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect my egg salad recipes, always looking for new ways to elevate this simple dish. Whether I was adding fresh herbs from my garden, experimenting with different types of mayo, or incorporating unexpected ingredients like curry powder or sriracha, I never stopped searching for the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen surrounded by the aroma of boiling eggs and the sound of laughter from my grandchildren playing in the backyard, I can't help but smile. Egg salad may seem like a humble dish, but to me, it represents a lifetime of memories, friendships, and the joy of sharing something delicious with the ones I love.

So, the next time you make egg salad, take a moment to savor each bite and appreciate the simple yet profound pleasure of a dish that has stood the test of time. And who knows, maybe you'll be inspired to create your own unique version of this classic recipe, just like I did all those years ago.

Categories

| Atkins Appetizers | Chives Recipes | Mayonnaise Recipes | Mustard Seed Recipes |

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