Introduction
Avocado Egg Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines creamy avocados with hard-boiled eggs to create a satisfying meal or snack. It’s a perfect option for those looking to enjoy a healthy lifestyle while still indulging in rich flavors. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it on its own, as a sandwich filling, or as a topping on salads.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 ripe avocados
– 4 large hard-boiled eggs
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Black pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering ripe avocados and eggs. Ensure that the avocados are perfectly ripe for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Step 2: Hard Boil the Eggs
Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then cover the pan, remove it from heat, and let the eggs sit for about 12 minutes. After the time is up, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool.
Step 3: Peel the Eggs
Once the eggs are cool, gently tap them on a hard surface to crack the shells. Peel the eggs under running water to make the process easier and to remove any stubborn bits of shell.
Step 4: Mash the Avocados
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl. Mash the avocados with a fork until creamy, leaving some texture if desired.
Step 5: Chop the Eggs
Chop the cooled, peeled eggs into small pieces. You can adjust the size based on how chunky or smooth you like your egg salad.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Add the chopped eggs to the mashed avocados. Mix until well combined.
Step 7: Season
Season the egg and avocado mixture with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Options include garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs for added flavor.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the avocado egg salad immediately on bread, crackers, or lettuce for a fresh option.
Notes
Note 1: Choosing Avocados
Select avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure to ensure they are ripe enough for mashing.
Note 2: Egg Cooking Time
Adjust cooking time for the eggs depending on your preferred hardness of the yolk; for slightly softer, reduce the resting time to about 9-10 minutes.
Note 3: Storage
The avocado egg salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Note 4: Flavor Variations
Feel free to customize your salad with ingredients like diced onions, celery, or crunchy pickles for added texture and flavor.
Cook techniques
Using Avocado as a Base
Avocado serves as a creamy and nutritious base for the egg salad, replacing traditional mayonnaise. Its rich flavor and texture enhance the dish while providing healthy fats.
Boiling Eggs
Properly boiling eggs is crucial for this recipe. Start by placing eggs in a pot, covering them with cold water, and bringing the water to a boil before reducing to a simmer. This technique ensures perfectly cooked eggs without a greenish ring around the yolk.
Mashing Technique
When mashing the avocado, use a fork to achieve the desired consistency. A chunkier mash offers more texture, while a smoother mash provides a creamier finish to the salad.
Mixing Ingredients
Gently fold the mashed avocado, chopped eggs, and seasonings together to create a cohesive mixture. This technique helps maintain the integrity of the eggs for a balanced texture.
Seasoning Options
Explore various herbs and spices to enhance flavor. Common choices include salt, pepper, and lemon juice, but feel free to experiment with dill, garlic powder, or paprika for a unique twist.
FAQ
Can I substitute other ingredients for the avocado?
Yes, if you’re looking for a different flavor or texture, try using Greek yogurt or hummus as substitutes for avocado.
How long can I store avocado egg salad?
For best freshness, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1 to 2 days.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The avocado egg salad can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week as a convenient, healthy snack or meal component.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Yes, diced celery, green onions, or bell peppers can be excellent additions for extra crunch and flavor.
What type of bread goes well with avocado egg salad?
This salad pairs nicely with whole grain, sourdough, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
The avocado egg salad is a delightful fusion of creamy avocado and protein-rich eggs, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing for various adaptations to suit your taste preferences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Avocado Deviled Eggs
Substitute mayonnaise with mashed avocado in deviled eggs for a healthier version of this classic appetizer.