Close-up of creamy cottage cheese egg salad topped with fresh chives in a white bowl.

Cottage Cheese Egg Salad Recipe

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Light, creamy, and packed with protein

If you love classic egg salad but want a healthier, high-protein twist, this Cottage Cheese Egg Salad is your new go-to! It’s rich, creamy, and tangy — all without using mayo. Cottage cheese adds a fluffy texture and boosts the protein, keeping you fuller for longer. Perfect for a quick lunch, meal prep, or even a picnic sandwich spread, this recipe comes together in under 15 minutes. Serve it on toast, in lettuce wraps, or with whole-grain crackers for a refreshing and nutritious bite. This lightened-up version proves you don’t need heavy dressing for incredible flavor. 🌿💛

Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients List

  • 6 large eggs
  • ¾ cup cottage cheese (preferably small curd, low-fat or regular)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (or green onion)
  • 1 tablespoon finely diced celery
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped dill pickles (optional for tang)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Paprika or smoked paprika for garnish

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

  1. Boil the eggs: Place eggs in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 9–10 minutes for fully set yolks.
  2. Cool and peel: Transfer eggs to an ice bath for 5 minutes, then peel and chop them into small, even pieces.
  3. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, celery, chives, and pickles (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add eggs: Fold in the chopped eggs gently with a spatula until evenly coated.
  5. Season: Add salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika on top for color.
  6. Serve & enjoy! Spread on toast, stuff into lettuce wraps, or enjoy it chilled as a light, satisfying meal. 🥗✨

Pro Tips

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
  • Substitutions: Swap chives for green onions or add a spoon of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
  • Meal Prep: Double the recipe for easy grab-and-go lunches.
  • Serving Idea: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning for a fun twist!

Nutrition Table

Serving SizeCaloriesProteinCarbsFatFiberSugar
1 plate21019g3g13g0g2g