Egg salad is one of those classic dishes everyone knows and many overlook, but it doesn’t have to be boring and can actually be fun and irresistible. If you’re tired of the same old recipe, shake things up with some unexpected ingredients that will take your egg salad from ordinary to unbelievably good. These secret additions are some you’d never think to toss in, but once you do, you’ll wonder how you ever ate egg salad without them.
Capers
Capers burst onto the scene with their briny zest, offering little pops of flavor that cut through the creaminess of the salad. These tiny flavor bombs bring a lovely Mediterranean punch to egg salad, making each forkful a delicious one.
Sun-dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes toss a bit of Mediterranean magic into the mix, with their tangy sweetness and chewy texture. They’re like little bursts of sunshine, adding depth and a touch of umami that complements the creamy eggs beautifully. Plus, they make the salad look as good as it tastes with their vibrant color.
Pesto
Pesto is your go-to for transforming the humble egg salad into a gourmet affair. Its blend of basil, garlic, Parmesan, and pine nuts introduces an Italian flair that’s hard to resist. Not only does it add a burst of flavor, but it also gives your salad a visually appealing green hue. Homemade or store-bought pesto is easy to mix in and brings loads of flavor without much effort.
Sour Cream
Swapping in some sour cream for mayo is a worthy way to level up your egg salad. It’s pretty similar to mayo but adds a creamy kick with a bit of a tang, making everything taste richer without going overboard. Plus, sour cream works great with all sorts of mix-ins, whether you’re throwing in some lemon juice or getting creative with spices.
Tarragon
Tarragon brings a hint of sweetness and anise-like flavor that whispers sophistication into your egg salad. It’s a subtle but powerful addition, adding a layer of complexity and freshness that makes the dish stand out. Plus, we’re all over the dill thing, aren’t we?
Nuts
Nuts add a crunch that’s oh-so-satisfying, injecting a bit of texture into the creamy mix. Whether you’re team almond, walnut, or pecan, they all bring a toasty flavor and a hearty crunch that makes each bite more interesting. It’s a simple addition that makes a world of difference.
Raisins
Raisins might seem like the wildcard of the bunch, but they bring a sweet contrast that plays off the savory elements beautifully. Their chewiness adds a fun texture, while their sweetness rounds out the flavors, making your egg salad a complex, multidimensional masterpiece. Many people add sugar to their egg salad recipe but we prefer the natural sweetness of this add-in instead. Try golden raisins over regular ones!
Avocado
Mixing avocado right into your egg salad might not seem too out there, especially if you love avocado toast with eggs. But here’s the twist: Instead of just topping your salad with avocado, you mash it up and use it as a stand-in for mayo. Avocados are naturally creamy and rich, so when you blend them in, they thicken up the salad and add a smooth, lightly green taste that’s super versatile. It’s a cool way to switch things up, giving your egg salad a healthier edge while keeping all the creamy goodness you crave. Here’s an avocado egg salad recipe to try.
Bacon
Bacon, because everything’s better with bacon, right? It adds a smoky, savory crunch that transforms your egg salad from good to can’t-stop-eating. This is for those who believe a little indulgence makes everything better, offering a salty bite that complements the creamy eggs perfectly.
Green Olives
Throwing green olives into your egg salad is a smart move if you’re after something that packs a bit more punch. These little guys aren’t just for martinis; they bring a salty and slightly tangy flavor to the mix, which can really wake up the usual egg salad vibe. Plus, their firm texture adds a nice bite in contrast to the creamy eggs. It’s a straightforward tweak that adds both flavor and crunch, making your egg salad a lot more interesting without a ton of extra work. Try this dijon egg salad with green olives for an interesting recipe.
Pickles
Pickles bring that crunchy, tangy kick that cuts through the richness like a knife, adding a refreshing bite. It’s a classic twist that never fails to please, giving the salad a zing that makes it hard to stop eating. If you thought pickles were just for sandwiches, think again! If pickles are too commonplace for you, try a sweet pickle relish or pickle juice instead.
Horseradish
If you want to spice up your egg salad, try adding some horseradish. It’s similar to mustard but gives a different kind of heat that can clear your sinuses – kind of like wasabi. Horseradish and mustard are pretty interchangeable, but horseradish can be a lot spicier, so taste it before you add too much. You can mix it with mustard for a more complex flavor, and it won’t mess with the color of your salad since it’s usually white. It’s a simple way to make your egg salad stand out.
Greek Yogurt
Swapping mayo for Greek yogurt in your egg salad isn’t just a health hack; it’s a flavor upgrade. Greek yogurt brings a creamy texture and a tangy kick that complements the eggs beautifully, without overpowering them. This switch not only cuts down on the fat, making your salad lighter, but also adds a protein boost. And the best part? Greek yogurt’s thickness gives the salad a rich consistency, while its mild taste means it pairs well with any of your favorite egg salad mix-ins, from fresh herbs to crunchy veggies.
12 Foods That Have More Protein Than An Egg
Eggs are often hailed as a great source of protein, packing about 6 grams per large egg. But if you’re looking to diversify your protein sources or just seeking a bit more protein punch per serving, there are plenty of other options out there. This guide will walk you through twelve foods that offer even more protein than a single egg, suitable for a variety of diets and lifestyles and almost any meal, any time of the day.
Read it Here: 12 Foods That Have More Protein Than An Egg
Pastured Eggs: The Real Deal or Marketing Gimmick?
When it comes to eggs, the term “pastured” often sparks heated debates. Are these eggs really the nutritional powerhouse they’re claimed to be, or is it just clever marketing at work? Here are all the details you should know before your next trip to the grocery store.
Read it Here: Pastured Eggs: The Real Deal or Marketing Gimmick?
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
