This Old Fashioned Egg Salad is a creamy mix of hard-boiled eggs, mayo, and a bit of mustard. It’s like a cozy hug in a sandwich, perfect for lunch or a picnic!
I love spreading it on bread or crackers, and it always takes me back to family gatherings. Plus, who can resist that deliciously simple flavor? It’s a classic for a reason!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for the right flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a lower cholesterol option, you can use a mix of whole eggs and egg whites.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for your egg salad. If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute. For a vegan option, try using a plant-based mayo.
Dijon Mustard: While optional, Dijon adds a gentle zing. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard is fine, though it will taste a bit different. You can also skip it entirely if you’d like a milder flavor.
Dill: Fresh dill gives a bright flavor, but if you can’t find it, dried dill can be used instead. Just remember, dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less.
Celery and Red Onion: Both add crunch and flavor to the salad. If you want a substitute for celery, try diced cucumber or bell pepper. For the onion, consider using green onions for a milder taste.
How Do I Hard Boil Eggs Perfectly?
Hard boiling eggs can be tricky, but with the right method, it’s simple! Follow these steps for perfectly cooked eggs:
- Place eggs in a pot and cover them with cold water, about an inch above the eggs.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let them cook for 9-12 minutes—9 for soft-boiled and 12 for firm yolks.
- After cooking, transfer the eggs to an ice bath or run under cold water for a few minutes. This helps prevent a green ring around the yolk and makes peeling easier!
These simple steps will give you well-cooked eggs for your salad every time!
How to Make Old Fashioned Egg Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- Bread of choice (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 12 minutes to cook the eggs. After cooking, you’ll need a little time for cooling and mixing the ingredients, making a total of about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Hard Boil the Eggs:
Start by placing the eggs in a pot and covering them with water. Put the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil. When it starts to boil, turn the heat down to low and cover the pot. Let the eggs cook for 9 to 12 minutes. When the time is up, carefully transfer the eggs to an ice bath or run them under cold water to stop the cooking. This will help keep them from getting overcooked!
2. Prepare the Eggs:
Once the eggs have cooled, gently peel them and put them into a medium-sized bowl. Take a fork and mash the eggs lightly. You want some chunks to keep the texture nice, so don’t over-mash them!
3. Mix in the Other Ingredients:
Add the mayonnaise, optional Dijon mustard, chopped dill, finely chopped celery, and red onion to the mashed eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you like a bit of zing, add the lemon juice as well. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a little taste of your egg salad. If you think it needs more seasoning, go ahead and add it! If you’d like it creamier, simply stir in a little extra mayonnaise until it’s just the way you like it.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your old-fashioned egg salad is ready! You can enjoy it on its own, with crackers, or as a delicious filling for a sandwich using your favorite bread. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Eggs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While large eggs are common, you can use medium or extra-large eggs as well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; smaller eggs may need less time, while larger ones might need more. The key is to aim for that perfectly hard-boiled texture!
What if I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! If you’re out of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a healthier twist. This will give the egg salad a creamy texture while adding different flavors. Just adjust the seasoning as needed since these alternatives can vary in taste.
How to Store Leftover Egg Salad?
Store any leftover egg salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, cover it tightly to prevent it from absorbing other odors. When ready to eat, give it a quick stir as sometimes the ingredients can separate after sitting.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to My Egg Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your egg salad by adding ingredients like diced pickles, capers, or a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor. Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives also work wonderfully. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may alter the balance of flavors, so adjust seasoning as needed!
