Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Sandwich

Introduction

Egg salad is a classic dish that brings back fond memories of family picnics and lazy summer afternoons. Recently, I experimented with a twist on the traditional recipe by incorporating cottage cheese, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! The creaminess of the cottage cheese pairs beautifully with the eggs, adding a delightful texture that elevates this sandwich to a whole new level. My family absolutely loved it, and I found myself making it multiple times that week. This Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Sandwich has become a new favorite in our home, perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

• 7 large eggs
• 1/2 cup cottage cheese
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 croissants, split
• 1 avocado, halved, pitted, peeled, and sliced
• 1 large beefsteak tomato, sliced
• 1/2 head bibb lettuce, leaves separated

Instructions

Cook the Eggs

1. Preheat your air fryer to 250°F.
2. Place the eggs in the air fryer basket and cook for 16 to 18 minutes, until both the whites and yolks are completely set.

Cool and Peel the Eggs

1. Once done, remove the eggs from the air fryer and rinse them under cold water until cool enough to handle.
2. Carefully peel the eggs and roughly chop them.

Make the Egg Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped eggs, cottage cheese, sweet pickle relish, dill, and Dijon mustard.
2. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Spread the egg salad evenly over the bottom halves of the croissants.
2. Top with avocado slices, tomato slices, and lettuce leaves.
3. Place the top halves of the croissants on each sandwich.

Serve

Enjoy your delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Sandwich! This dish is a fantastic blend of creamy and fresh flavors, perfect for lunch or a light meal.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 sandwich
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 225mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes

How to Serve

• Plate the sandwiches on a serving platter for a beautiful presentation.
• Garnish with extra dill or parsley for a pop of color.
• Pair with potato chips, pickles, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
2. Customize the Spread: Try adding Greek yogurt or a different type of cheese to the egg salad for variety.
3. Make Ahead: Prepare the egg salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a quick assembly.
4. Try Different Breads: If croissants aren’t your thing, this egg salad works well in whole grain bread, pita, or even lettuce wraps.
5. Adjust the Flavor: Feel free to modify the amount of relish, dill, or mustard according to your taste preference.

Recipe Variations

• Herbed Egg Salad: Add chopped chives or parsley for a fresh herby twist.
• Spicy Egg Salad: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Mediterranean Style: Include olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichokes for a Mediterranean flair.
• Low-Calorie Option: Use low-fat cottage cheese and whole wheat bread to lighten it up.
• Breakfast Version: Serve the egg salad on a toasted English muffin with a poached egg on top.

Serving Suggestions

• Salad: Serve with a light garden salad or coleslaw on the side.
• Soups: Pair with a bowl of tomato soup or butternut squash soup for a comforting meal.
• Drinks: Complement your sandwich with a refreshing iced tea or a light lemonade.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftover egg salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze egg salad, as the texture may change upon thawing. Instead, prepare the egg salad fresh as needed.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use boiled eggs instead of air-fried?

• Yes, boiled eggs can be used. Simply boil them in water for about 10-12 minutes.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• The egg salad itself is gluten-free, but ensure you use gluten-free bread or wraps if needed.

1. Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

• Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese for a different texture and taste.

1. What can I use instead of croissants?

• Whole grain bread, pita, or lettuce wraps are excellent alternatives.

1. How can I make this egg salad vegan?

• You can substitute the eggs with mashed tofu and the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative.

1. How long do I need to cook the eggs in the air fryer?

• Cook the eggs in the air fryer for 16 to 18 minutes at 250°F.

1. Can I add more vegetables to the sandwich?

• Absolutely! Feel free to add sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or sprouts.

1. Is there a way to make this recipe low-carb?

• Use lettuce wraps instead of croissants to make it low-carb.

1. What type of mustard works best?

• Dijon mustard adds a nice tang, but feel free to use yellow mustard or a spicy mustard if you prefer.

1. How can I make the sandwich more filling?
   • Add extra protein like sliced turkey or chicken for a more filling meal.

Conclusion

The Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Sandwich is not just a delightful twist on a classic but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. With its creamy texture and fresh flavors, this sandwich is perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re packing a lunch for work, hosting a brunch, or simply enjoying a quick dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to savor every bite of this delicious and satisfying sandwich!

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