Creamy Avocado Egg Salad is a delectable twist on the classic egg salad, offering a nutritious and satisfying option for those following a paleo, whole30, low-carb, or keto diet. The main ingredients include hard-boiled eggs, mashed avocado, red onion, mayonnaise, chives, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The key to this recipe lies in perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs, avoiding overcooking at all costs. The avocado should be mashed to a chunky texture, adding a delightful creaminess to the salad while ensuring it doesn’t become too smooth like guacamole. Fresh herbs like chives and parsley can be added for extra flavor, or one can explore alternate options such as cilantro, basil, or tarragon. While homemade mayonnaise is recommended, sour cream or yogurt can serve as viable alternatives. Enjoy this delectable salad on its own, between two slices of bread, or wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. However, it’s worth noting that the avocado may begin to oxidize and brown after a couple of days in the fridge, so it’s best consumed within that time frame.
Ingredients
Avocado egg salad is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the creaminess of avocado with the richness of hard-boiled eggs. The main ingredients for this recipe include hard-boiled eggs, avocado, red onion, mayonnaise, chives, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying salad that can be enjoyed on its own or served in different ways.
Preparation
Before diving into making the creamy avocado egg salad, there are a few preparation steps to be followed. These steps ensure that each ingredient is prepared and ready to be combined to perfection.
Cooking the hard-boiled eggs
To start, it is crucial to cook the hard-boiled eggs properly. The key to this step is not overcooking the eggs, as it may result in a rubbery texture and a grayish yolk. The eggs should be placed in a pot of water and brought to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let the eggs cook for about 8-10 minutes. After that, remove the eggs from the heat, place them in cold water, and let them cool completely before peeling.
Mashing the avocado
While the hard-boiled eggs are cooling, the avocado needs to be prepared. The avocado should be ripe but firm enough to hold its shape. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Scoop out the flesh into a bowl and use a fork or a potato masher to mash it to a chunky texture. It is important not to over-mash the avocado, as it should have some texture and not become too smooth like guacamole.
Chopping the red onion, chives, and parsley
Next, the red onion, chives, and parsley need to be chopped. The red onion should be finely diced, and the chives and parsley should be finely chopped. These ingredients add a burst of flavor and freshness to the creamy avocado egg salad.
Making the Creamy Avocado Egg Salad
Now that all the ingredients are prepared, it’s time to combine them and create the creamy avocado egg salad.
Combining the eggs and mashed avocado
In a large bowl, combine the cooled and peeled hard-boiled eggs with the mashed avocado. The eggs should be roughly chopped to create a chunky texture. Gently mix the eggs and avocado together until they are well combined.
Adding the chopped red onion, chives, and parsley
Next, add the chopped red onion, chives, and parsley to the bowl. These ingredients provide a delightful crunch and a hint of freshness to the salad. Mix them in gently with the eggs and avocado, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout.
Mixing in mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper
To complete the creamy avocado egg salad, add mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the bowl. These ingredients enhance the flavor and provide a creamy and tangy dressing for the salad. Start by adding a tablespoon of mayonnaise and a squeeze of lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined, adjusting the seasonings as desired.
Adjusting the Flavor
While the creamy avocado egg salad is delicious as is, there are a few ways to adjust the flavor and make it even more exciting.
Adding herbs like cilantro, basil, or tarragon
If you are a fan of fresh herbs, consider adding some to the salad. Fresh cilantro, basil, or tarragon can elevate the flavors and add a unique twist. Chop the herbs finely and mix them into the salad along with the other ingredients. The herbs will provide additional freshness and aroma to the dish.
Substituting mayonnaise with sour cream or yogurt
For a lighter and tangier version of the creamy avocado egg salad, you can substitute mayonnaise with sour cream or yogurt. These alternatives provide a slightly different flavor profile while still maintaining the creaminess and richness of the salad. Simply replace the mayonnaise with an equal amount of sour cream or yogurt and mix it in with the other ingredients.
Serving Options
Once the creamy avocado egg salad is prepared and flavored to perfection, it’s time to decide how to enjoy it. There are several serving options to choose from, depending on personal preference.
Plain
The salad can be enjoyed as is, straight from the bowl. Scoop a generous portion onto a plate or into a bowl and savor the creamy texture and flavors. This option is perfect for those who want to fully experience the combination of avocado and hard-boiled eggs without any other distractions.
On bread
For a more substantial meal, spread the creamy avocado egg salad onto bread to create a delicious sandwich. Choose your favorite type of bread, whether it’s a classic white bread, a hearty whole wheat bread, or a crisp baguette. Add some lettuce or sprouts for extra crunch and enjoy a satisfying and filling sandwich.
On lettuce leaves
For a lighter and refreshing option, serve the creamy avocado egg salad on lettuce leaves. This turns the salad into a delicious and healthy lettuce wrap. Choose large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butter lettuce, and spoon the salad onto the leaves. Roll them up and enjoy the combination of flavors and textures. This option is ideal for those looking for a low-carb or gluten-free alternative.
Storage and Shelf Life
If there are any leftovers of the creamy avocado egg salad, they can be stored for later consumption. However, it is important to keep in mind a few storage tips to ensure the salad remains fresh and tasty.
Refrigerating the salad
To store the creamy avocado egg salad, transfer it to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator and ensure the lid is tightly sealed. The salad can be refrigerated for up to two days without compromising its flavor or texture.
Avoiding avocado oxidation
Avocados have a tendency to oxidize and turn brown when exposed to air. To prevent this from happening to the creamy avocado egg salad, cover the surface of the salad with plastic wrap before sealing the container. The plastic wrap will create a barrier between the salad and the air, helping to keep the avocado fresh and green for a longer period of time.
Maximum storage duration
While the creamy avocado egg salad can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, it is best enjoyed fresh. Over time, the avocado may start to oxidize and lose its vibrant green color, which can affect the appearance of the salad. Additionally, the overall texture and flavor may slightly change after being refrigerated for an extended period. Therefore, it is recommended to consume the salad within the first two days to fully enjoy its deliciousness.
In conclusion, creamy avocado egg salad is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of avocado with the richness of hard-boiled eggs. With the right preparation and the addition of onions, herbs, and seasonings, this salad can be a delightful meal on its own or a filling sandwich or lettuce wrap. Whether enjoyed plain, on bread, or on lettuce leaves, this salad is a healthy and satisfying option. Just remember to store any leftovers properly to ensure the freshness and quality of the creamy avocado egg salad. Bon appétit!
