A Chef’s Secret for the BEST Egg Salad

📝 Description

This creamy, tangy, and ultra-flavorful egg salad is the result of simple ingredients elevated with a few chef-level secrets. Perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or lettuce wraps, this egg salad balances creaminess, crunch, and zest for a truly unforgettable bite.

🍳 Ingredients for A Chef’s Secret for the BEST Egg Salad

• 8 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for richness)

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp white wine vinegar or lemon juice

• 2 tbsp finely chopped celery

• 1 tbsp finely chopped red onion

• 1 tbsp fresh chives or green onion, chopped

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for heat

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Perfectly boil eggs: Place eggs in a pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Turn off heat, cover, and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Transfer to ice water immediately. Peel when cooled.

2. Mash eggs: Roughly chop or mash eggs using a fork or pastry cutter to your preferred consistency (chunky or smooth).

3. Mix dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar/lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine: Fold in chopped celery, onion, and chives, followed by the eggs. Mix until everything is well combined.

5. Chill (optional): For the best flavor, cover and chill for 30 minutes before serving.

🧠 Chef’s Notes

• Egg texture tip: Slightly under-mashing the yolks adds pockets of richness.

• Mayo substitute: For a lighter version, sub part of the mayo with Greek yogurt.

• Dijon difference: Dijon adds tangy depth that classic yellow mustard lacks.

• Flavor booster: A tiny splash of pickle juice or hot sauce adds another layer.

💡 Tips

• Use fresh eggs but not too fresh (they peel easier after 5–7 days).

• For a smoother mix, push yolks through a sieve before combining.

• Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Add diced pickles or capers for extra zing.

🍽️ Servings

Makes about 4 servings (enough for 4 sandwiches or 6 small lettuce cups).

🔍 Nutritional Info (Per Serving, approx.)

• Calories: 220

• Protein: 10g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbs: 2g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugars: <1g

✅ Benefits

• High in protein: Great for energy and muscle repair.

• Low-carb: Ideal for keto or low-carb diets.

• Quick & easy: No fancy tools or ingredients required.

• Customizable: Adjust texture and flavors to your liking.

❓Q&A

Q: Can I make egg salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours as the flavors meld.

Q: Can I make it without mayo?
A: Yes—substitute with Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or a mix of olive oil and mustard.

Q: Why add vinegar or lemon juice?
A: It balances the richness with acidity and keeps the salad bright and fresh.

Q: Can I use pre-boiled eggs?
A: Absolutely, just ensure they are fresh and not overcooked (avoid grey yolks).