8 large eggs, perfectly hard-boiled
¼ cup high-quality mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
The Flavor Enhancers:
2 tablespoons minced red onion
1 celery rib, finely diced
2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
The Secret Weapons:
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ cup finely chopped cornichons or dill pickles
1 tablespoon pickle brine
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
👩🍳 The METHOD: Where the Magic Happens
Step 1: PERFECT Hard-Boiled Eggs
Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
Bring to a rolling boil, then immediately remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes exactly.
Transfer to an ice bath for 5 minutes.
Result: Bright yellow yolks, no gray ring, easy to peel.
Step 2: The CHOP
Peel eggs and separate whites from yolks.
Chop whites into ¼-½ inch pieces (not too fine!).
Mash yolks separately with a fork.
Step 3: The SAUCE
In a medium bowl, combine:
Mashed egg yolks
Mayonnaise, Dijon, Greek yogurt
Lemon juice, hot sauce, pickle brine
Smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: The MIX
Gently fold in:
Chopped egg whites
Red onion, celery, cornichons, fresh dill
Do not overmix—you want texture!
Step 5: The REST
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
This allows flavors to meld and texture to perfect.
💡 Chef’s Pro Tips
Texture is Everything:
Chunkier egg whites = better mouthfeel
Mashed yolks = creamier base
Crisp celery/onion = fresh crunch
Flavor Balance:
Lemon juice brightens the richness
Pickle brine adds tang without sweetness
Smoked paprika adds depth, not heat
Greek yogurt cuts through mayo richness
Avoid These Common Mistakes:
❌ Overcooking eggs (gray yolks)
❌ Using only mayo (too heavy)
❌ Finely chopping everything (mushy)
❌ Skipping the chill time (flors won’t meld)
🥪 Serving Suggestions
Classic Sandwiches:
Toasted sourdough with butter lettuce
Croissants with arugula
Whole wheat with tomato and sprouts
Creative Ways:
Lettuce cups for low-carb option
Crackers for elegant appetizers
Stuffed in tomatoes or avocados
With crispy bacon on a bagel
Perfect Pairings:
Crispy potato chips
Fresh fruit salad
Pickled vegetables
Iced tea or crisp white wine
⏲️ Make-Ahead & Storage
Refrigerator: Up to 3 days in airtight container
Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes)
Meal Prep: Perfect for weekly lunches
Flavor Bonus: Tastes even better on day 2!
🌿 Customize It!
Add-Ins:
Crumbled bacon
Capers or olives
Curry powder
Fresh tarragon
Avocado (add just before serving)
Dietary Swaps:
Lighter: All Greek yogurt instead of mayo
Vegan: Tofu scramble + vegan mayo
Paleo: Avocado oil mayo
Keto: Serve in lettuce wraps
The Final Bite
This isn’t just another egg salad recipe—it’s a masterclass in transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With perfect technique and balanced flavors, you’ll never look at egg salad the same way again.
Now it’s your turn! Will you make it classic or try a custom variation? Either way, you’re about to experience egg salad perfection.
“Good food doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to be made with care and a few chef’s secrets.”
