This Old Fashioned Egg Salad is creamy, tangy, and super easy to whip up! With hard-boiled eggs, mayo, and a dash of mustard, it’s comfort food in a bowl.
This egg salad is perfect for lunch or a picnic. Just scoop it onto bread or crackers, and you’re all set for a tasty meal that always brings smiles!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are the star here. They provide a rich flavor and creamy texture. For those with dietary restrictions, try using hard-boiled egg substitutes or making a chickpea salad for a vegan option.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise adds creaminess. If you want a healthier twist, consider using Greek yogurt or avocado for a lighter alternative. I personally love the zing of a spicy mayo for added flavor!
Celery: This adds a nice crunch. If celery’s not your thing, you can swap it with chopped cucumber or bell peppers for a fresh, crisp bite.
Dijon Mustard: This is optional but brings a lovely tang. If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard will work too, or skip it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Dill or parsley brightens the dish. You can use dried herbs in a pinch, but fresh herbs definitely enhance the flavor. I recommend the fresh dill for an authentic taste!
How Do I Peel Hard-Boiled Eggs Easily?
Peeling hard-boiled eggs can be tricky. The key is to cool them quickly after boiling. Here’s how:
- As soon as the eggs are done cooking, transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This shocks the eggs and helps the shell come off easily.
- When peeling, crack the shell lightly and peel it under running water. This helps to remove stubborn bits of shell.
Following these steps should leave your eggs beautifully intact and ready for your salad!
How to Make Old Fashioned Egg Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp dill pickles, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Bread or crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. You’ll boil the eggs, mix in the other ingredients, and then let it sit for a while for the flavors to blend. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a snack or lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boiling the Eggs:
Start by placing the eggs in a saucepan. Make sure to cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. Once it’s boiling, cover the pot, take it off the heat, and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes. This helps them cook perfectly!
2. Cooling the Eggs:
Once the time is up, carefully transfer the eggs to a bowl filled with ice water. Let them cool for about 5 minutes. This ice bath helps make peeling the eggs much easier.
3. Peeling the Eggs:
After cooling, gently crack the shells and peel the eggs under running water. This helps remove the shell without any fuss. Once peeled, chop the eggs into small pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
4. Mixing the Salad:
Now it’s time to add flavor! To the chopped eggs, add your mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if you like a little tang), chopped celery, red onion, and dill pickles (if you’re using them). Stir everything together gently until well combined.
5. Seasoning:
Give your egg salad a taste test! Add salt and pepper to your liking, mixing again to incorporate the seasoning.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
If you want an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh dill or parsley on top. You can serve your egg salad on slices of bread or with crackers. It’s delicious either way!
7. Chilling for Best Flavor:
For the best flavor, cover the egg salad and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy your scrumptious egg salad!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. You can also use avocado for a creamy texture and added flavor. Just keep in mind that using different ingredients may slightly alter the taste, so adjust other seasonings accordingly.
How Do I Hard Boil Eggs Perfectly Every Time?
For perfect hard-boiled eggs, start with older eggs if possible, as they’re easier to peel. You can also try the “steaming method”: place eggs in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for about 12-14 minutes. Then, just like in the recipe, cool them in an ice bath for easy peeling!
Can I Make this Egg Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare egg salad a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. However, for optimal freshness, avoid adding garnishes like herbs until you’re ready to serve.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover egg salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If the salad seems too thick after sitting for a while, you can add a splash of mayonnaise or a little yogurt to restore its creaminess when you’re ready to eat!
