Egg Salad Recipe with the Best Dressing

Egg salad is a timeless classic that brings comfort to any meal. Whether you’re assembling a quick lunch, a picnic snack, or a party appetizer, this Egg Salad Recipe with the Best Dressing is sure to become your go-to. Made with eight perfectly hard-boiled eggs and a blend of fresh herbs and tangy dressing, this recipe balances creamy, zesty, and savory flavors in each bite. The finely chopped celery and red onion add a welcome crunch, while the Dijon mustard and lemon juice elevate the dressing to a whole new level. Let’s dive into what makes this egg salad stand out and how you can master it effortlessly.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Egg Salad Recipe with the Best Dressing stands apart thanks to its perfectly balanced dressing and fresh ingredients. The combination of mayonnaise with Dijon mustard and lemon juice creates a creamy yet tangy dressing that complements the eggs beautifully without overpowering them. The addition of fresh dill and chives introduces a subtle herbaceous note, while paprika adds a warm, smoky touch. Unlike many egg salads that can feel one-dimensional, this recipe layers flavors and textures, resulting in a vibrant, satisfying dish. Plus, the garlic clove brings a hint of depth that makes the salad truly memorable.

Your Shopping Guide

• Eggs: Choose the freshest large eggs you can find for the best flavor and texture.
• Celery: Opt for crisp, fresh celery stalks to add crunch.
• Red Onion: Use a small red onion, finely chopped, to bring a mild sharpness.
• Fresh Dill: Look for bright green dill with no yellowing for optimal freshness.
• Chives: Fresh chives add a delicate onion flavor and a splash of green color.
• Mayonnaise: Use a good-quality mayonnaise for a creamy base.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dressing.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the dressing.
• Paprika: Choose sweet or smoked paprika depending on your flavor preference.
• Salt & Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper and fine salt enhance all the flavors.
• Garlic Clove: Fresh garlic minced finely to avoid overpowering bites.

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large Pot: For boiling the eggs perfectly.
• Bowl of Ice Water: To cool the eggs quickly and stop cooking.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine all ingredients thoroughly.
• Sharp Knife: For chopping celery, onion, herbs, and eggs.
• Cutting Board: A clean surface for chopping.
• Spoon or Spatula: For mixing the egg salad gently without mashing it too much.

Build Egg Salad Recipe with the Best Dressing Step by Step

Step 1: Hard-Boil the Eggs

Place eight large eggs in a large pot and cover them with cold water by about an inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes. Immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool completely before peeling. This method ensures creamy yolks and tender whites perfect for your salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies and Herbs

While the eggs cool, finely chop 2 tablespoons of celery, 3 tablespoons of red onion, 3 tablespoons of dill, and 3 tablespoons of chives. Mince 1 garlic clove very finely. These fresh ingredients will add texture and flavor complexity to the salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper. Stir in the minced garlic. This dressing is creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor—truly the heart of this Egg Salad Recipe with the Best Dressing.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Peel the cooled eggs and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Add the eggs to the dressing along with the chopped celery, red onion, dill, and chives. Gently fold everything together with a spatula or spoon, taking care not to mash the eggs too much. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For best flavor, refrigerate the egg salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve this salad on fresh bread, in a wrap, or alongside crisp greens. It’s a delightful addition to any meal.

Substitutions by Diet

• Mayonnaise: Substitute with vegan mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter or dairy-free option.
• Lemon Juice: Lime juice works well if you prefer a slightly different citrus note.
• Fresh Herbs: Substitute dill and chives with fresh parsley or tarragon if desired.
• Spices: Swap paprika for smoked paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat.

Little Things that Matter

• Peeling eggs under running water helps remove shells easily and cleanly.
• Chop the herbs finely to distribute their flavor evenly through the salad.
• Using fresh lemon juice rather than bottled makes a noticeable difference in brightness.
• Allowing the salad to rest in the fridge improves the melding of flavors.
• Serve with a dash of paprika on top for a beautiful presentation.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This egg salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the eggs and mayonnaise-based dressing can become grainy upon thawing. When ready to eat, serve cold or at room temperature for the best taste. You can enjoy it simply on bread or alongside a refreshing Caesar Salad for a complete meal.

FAQ

How do I know when eggs are perfectly hard-boiled?

After boiling, the yolks should be fully set but not chalky or green around the edges. The method of boiling and then resting eggs in hot water followed by an ice bath results in tender, creamy yolks perfect for egg salad.

Can I make this egg salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. It can be stored up to 3 days in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

What can I serve with this egg salad?

Egg salad is versatile – serve it on toasted bread, in a wrap, or over a bed of greens. It pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetable sides or other salads like the Three Bean Salad.

Is it okay to use regular yellow mustard instead of Dijon?

While regular yellow mustard works in a pinch, Dijon mustard provides a more complex, slightly spicy flavor that enhances the dressing wonderfully in this recipe.

Cook This Next

• Reuben Sandwich With Russian Dressing – A hearty sandwich with tangy dressing and rich flavors.
• Caesar Salad – A crisp, classic salad to complement your egg salad meal.
• Three Bean Salad – A fresh, protein-packed side that pairs beautifully with egg dishes.

Final Thoughts

This Egg Salad Recipe with the Best Dressing offers a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors that elevate a traditional favorite into something extraordinary. With simple, wholesome ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a delicious egg salad ready to enjoy any day of the week. Whether for a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe never disappoints. Remember, the magic lies in the dressing and the freshness of the herbs, so don’t skimp on those. Make it your own by tweaking herbs and spices, and savor the delightful balance of flavors in every bite.

Egg salad doesn’t have to be boring or bland—try this recipe and taste the difference for yourself. Happy cooking!

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