Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious lunch or snack? Look no further! This egg salad recipe, elevated with the bright, fresh flavor of dill, is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a sophisticated weekend brunch. Forget bland, boring egg salad – this recipe is bursting with flavor and texture, and it's surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this homemade egg salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to discover a new favorite among easy recipes and healthy meals!
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite – full-fat, light, or even vegan!)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion (optional, for a little zip!)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional additions: celery, capers, paprika
Instructions:
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Hard-boil the eggs: Place the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover with cold water by about an inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then immediately remove from heat. Cover the pan and let the eggs sit in the hot water for 10-12 minutes. Drain the hot water and run cold water over the eggs until they're cool enough to handle. This prevents the yolks from turning green.
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Peel and chop: Once cool, peel the eggs under cold running water – this makes it much easier! Roughly chop the eggs.
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Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, dill, red onion (if using), Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Gently mix everything together until well combined. Don't overmix, as this can make the egg salad mushy.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for a truly delicious egg salad. Serve on bread, crackers, lettuce cups, or enjoy it as a simple and satisfying snack.
Tips for the Best Egg Salad:
- Fresh is best: Using fresh dill makes a world of difference. If you don't have fresh dill, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried dill, but the flavor will be slightly less intense.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can lead to a gummy texture. Gentle mixing is key.
- Adjust seasonings: Taste the egg salad and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference.
- Get creative with additions: Experiment with other ingredients like finely chopped celery, capers, or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Spicy Egg Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Avocado Egg Salad: Mash in half an avocado for a creamy, healthy twist.
- Curry Egg Salad: Add a teaspoon of curry powder for an exotic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on mayonnaise type and additions)
- Protein: ~8g
- Fat: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~2g
This dill egg salad recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes. It's the perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can be both satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy!