The creamy egg salad sandwich is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Made with simple pantry staples like boiled eggs, mayonnaise, and mustard, this dish is both satisfying and incredibly easy to whip up. A touch of paprika and chopped green onions add a pop of flavor that elevates every bite.
Whether you’re preparing lunch for yourself or entertaining a crowd, this egg salad is always a crowd-pleaser. It pairs wonderfully with toasted bread, croissants, or crackers and can be prepped ahead of time for a grab-and-go meal option. From casual weekday lunches to weekend brunches, this versatile dish fits the bill every time.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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8 eggs
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1 teaspoon yellow mustard
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1/4 cup chopped green onions
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Paprika for garnish
Directions:
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Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 10–12 minutes.
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Drain and rinse eggs with cold water. Peel and chop them coarsely.
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In a medium bowl, mix the chopped eggs with mayonnaise, mustard, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
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Serve on toasted bread, sandwich rolls, croissants, or alongside crackers. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 240 kcal | Servings: 4
The Timeless Appeal of Egg Salad
Egg salad is one of those comforting, reliable dishes that has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s simple, affordable, and deeply satisfying. Whether it’s served between two slices of toasted bread, scooped onto a bed of greens, or accompanied by crackers as a snack, egg salad brings a sense of nostalgia while remaining versatile enough for modern palates.
The beauty of egg salad lies in its accessibility. Most households have the basic ingredients on hand—eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and a few seasonings—which means you can prepare this dish in a pinch, without a trip to the grocery store. But beyond its convenience, egg salad offers a blank canvas for culinary creativity. From the classic rendition to more elevated takes featuring herbs, spices, or crunch, it continues to evolve without losing its essence.
A Brief History of Egg Salad
Egg salad has its roots in 19th-century Europe, where eggs and mayonnaise were commonly used in cold dishes and salads. The idea of combining the two likely evolved alongside the development of mayonnaise itself in France or Spain. By the early 20th century, egg salad sandwiches had made their way into American cuisine, particularly popularized as affordable and filling lunchbox options.
Over time, egg salad became a staple of deli counters, tea party menus, and home kitchens across the country. The sandwich variant grew in popularity during wartime when meat was rationed, positioning eggs as a high-protein substitute. Today, it remains a favorite among those seeking a quick lunch, protein-rich snack, or a comforting meal.
Why This Egg Salad Recipe Stands Out
While there are countless versions of egg salad out there, the one featured in this recipe keeps things delightfully classic while delivering on flavor and texture. What makes this version especially appealing is its balance of creaminess from mayonnaise, a touch of tang from mustard, and the crunch and freshness of chopped green onions. A final dusting of paprika adds both color and a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall taste.
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. There are no overly fancy ingredients or steps to follow—just straightforward instructions that result in a creamy, flavorful salad perfect for layering into sandwiches or spooning onto toast.
Health Benefits of Egg Salad
Despite being rich and creamy, egg salad can be a highly nutritious option when prepared with the right ingredients and portions. Eggs are a powerhouse of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. They’re also packed with vital nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and choline, which support brain health, metabolism, and immune function.
The mayonnaise and mustard provide the classic creamy texture and tangy finish, and when used in moderation, they contribute flavor without overwhelming the nutritional value. You can always substitute part of the mayo with Greek yogurt or avocado for a lighter version. The addition of green onions not only provides a burst of flavor and color but also offers a dose of antioxidants.
This dish can also fit into various dietary plans. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be adjusted to suit keto and low-carb diets by serving it in lettuce wraps instead of bread.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Ideas
Egg salad is incredibly versatile and can be styled to suit different occasions. The most popular way to serve it is in sandwich form—layered generously between slices of fresh, toasted bread. It pairs particularly well with whole grain, sourdough, or brioche buns. Add-ons like crisp lettuce, tomato slices, or pickles can enhance the sandwich further.
For a lighter option, try serving it over mixed greens for a protein-packed salad. It also works well as a party appetizer—simply spoon small amounts onto cucumber rounds or mini crackers for a bite-sized treat.
In the warmer months, egg salad makes for a great picnic companion. It travels well and can be kept chilled in a cooler until it’s time to eat. During holiday brunches or casual gatherings, it’s a delicious and familiar addition to the spread.
Tips for Making the Best Egg Salad
While the recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips that can elevate your egg salad from good to great:
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Use perfectly cooked eggs: Overcooked eggs can have a rubbery texture and greenish yolks. Aim for eggs that are just hard-boiled, with a creamy yellow yolk.
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Chop with care: Whether you prefer a chunky or finely mixed salad, consistency is key. Some like to mash the eggs for a smoother texture, while others prefer larger pieces for a heartier bite.
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Season thoughtfully: A pinch of salt and pepper goes a long way. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning once everything is mixed.
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Chill before serving: Letting the salad rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes enhances the flavors and allows them to meld.
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Add your own twist: Feel free to customize! Fresh herbs like dill or parsley, diced pickles or celery, and even a touch of hot sauce can take your egg salad to new heights.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
Egg salad is ideal for meal prep. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for several days. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to four days.
It’s important to note that egg salad should not be left out at room temperature for extended periods, especially during summer months, as it contains mayonnaise and boiled eggs. Always refrigerate promptly after serving.
Freezing egg salad isn’t recommended. The texture of eggs and mayonnaise tends to break down when thawed, resulting in a watery and less appetizing dish.
Customizing for Dietary Preferences
This egg salad recipe can easily be adjusted to accommodate different dietary needs:
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Low-fat: Substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with non-fat Greek yogurt.
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Dairy-free: Make sure your mayonnaise is dairy-free, which most are.
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Low-carb: Skip the bread and serve the egg salad in lettuce wraps, on avocado halves, or inside a bell pepper bowl.
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Spicy: Add a dash of sriracha, diced jalapeños, or hot mustard for a kick.
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Vegan alternative: While this recipe centers around eggs, you can explore vegan options using tofu or chickpea mash with vegan mayo.
Egg Salad in Today’s Food Culture
In recent years, there’s been a resurgence of appreciation for “old-fashioned” or “retro” recipes, and egg salad fits beautifully into that trend. Social media platforms, especially TikTok and Instagram, have given new life to humble recipes like this one, sparking creativity and reinterpretations for every taste.
You’ll now find egg salad layered with bacon, microgreens, or even drizzled with sriracha in cafes and brunch spots. Despite all the innovation, the classic version remains beloved because of its simplicity and nostalgic appeal.
Whether you’re a home cook looking to add a no-fuss dish to your lunch rotation or a foodie experimenting with timeless flavors, egg salad provides an ideal starting point. It’s forgiving, quick, and consistently satisfying.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
At the heart of it, this egg salad recipe is a celebration of simplicity. It’s a dish that anyone can make, regardless of skill level, and it offers comfort in every creamy, flavorful bite. Its versatility, nutritional benefits, and ease of preparation make it a must-have in any home cook’s recipe box.
More than just a sandwich filler, egg salad represents the beauty of uncomplicated cooking—a reminder that with just a few ingredients and a little care, we can create something truly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a quick solo lunch, packing it into a picnic basket, or sharing it with family and friends, this classic egg salad never disappoints.
Let it be your go-to, your fallback, and your canvas for creativity. Once you make it, chances are it will find a permanent place in your regular rotation.