How to Make the Best Classic Egg Salad at Home

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Introduction

Classic egg salad is simple, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s a go-to choice for a quick lunch, light dinner, or picnic dish. You can spread it on bread, wrap it in lettuce, or eat it with crackers. It’s easy to make, full of protein, and ready in minutes.

In this post, you’ll learn how to make egg salad using fresh, basic ingredients. We’ll show you step-by-step how to get the best taste and texture every time. Whether you love it plain or loaded with add-ins, this easy protein-packed meal is a must-try.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Classic Egg Salad

Ingredients for classic egg salad arranged on a wooden surface, including boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, green onions, salt, and pepper.
Everything you need to make the best classic egg salad at home—simple, fresh, and flavorful.

To make the best classic egg salad at home, you only need a few simple ingredients. They’re easy to find and come together for a creamy, tasty result.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

Use fresh, fully cooled eggs. They are the base of every good egg salad recipe. Chop them evenly for the best texture.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise gives the salad its creamy texture. It adds richness and holds everything together.

for a step-by-step on how to make homemade mayo, click here!

Dijon Mustard

Add Dijon mustard for a slight tang. It balances the richness and gives the salad a bold flavor.

You can make your own by following these instructions.

Celery

Chopped celery adds crunch. It makes the salad more refreshing and gives a satisfying bite.

Green Onions or Chives

These add a light onion flavor without overpowering the dish. They also give a pop of color.

Drink Pairing

Serve your classic egg salad with coffee, iced tea, or a glass of fresh juice. It’s a simple combo that works great for lunch or brunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make It Perfect

Follow these easy steps to make the best classic egg salad at home. The process is quick, and the results are creamy and delicious.

Peel and Chop the Eggs

Start with fully cooled, hard-boiled eggs. Peel them and chop evenly for a smooth texture.

Mix Mayo, Mustard, and Seasonings

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. This creates the creamy base for your egg salad recipe.

Add Celery and Green Onions

Next, mix in finely chopped celery and green onions. These add crunch and a fresh taste to the salad.

Fold in the Eggs Gently

Add the chopped eggs to the bowl. Fold them in gently to keep the pieces whole and avoid mashing.

Chill Before Serving

Place the egg salad in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and gives you the perfect texture.

How to Serve Your Egg Salad

You made the classic egg salad—now it’s time to enjoy it. Try these simple and tasty ways to serve it at home.

On Toasted Bread

Make an egg salad sandwich using toasted sourdough or whole wheat bread. It’s a filling and satisfying lunch.

In Lettuce Wraps

Want a lighter option? Scoop the egg salad into lettuce leaves for a low-carb egg salad meal.

On Crackers or Crostini

Serve it on crackers or crostini. This makes a great snack or easy appetizer for guests.

In a Veggie Wrap

Wrap the salad with sliced cucumbers, carrots, or greens. It’s a fresh, healthy lunch idea.

With Avocado or Tomatoes

Pair your homemade egg salad with sliced avocado or tomatoes. It adds color, freshness, and extra nutrients.

Variations and Add-In Ideas

Two plates with lettuce cups filled with creamy egg salad, served with coffee and orange juice on a breakfast table.
Fresh and creamy egg salad served in lettuce leaves—perfect for a low-carb breakfast or brunch.

You can easily change your classic egg salad recipe to match your taste or diet. Try one or more of these simple ideas.

Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayo

Swap mayo with Greek yogurt for a healthy egg salad. It’s lighter and high in protein.

Add Chopped Pickles or Relish

Mix in pickles or sweet relish for a tangy flavor. This adds crunch and bold taste.

Sprinkle with Smoked Paprika or Cayenne

Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. It gives your egg salad a warm, spicy kick.

Use Red Onion Instead of Green Onion

Try red onion if you want a sharper, stronger flavor. It also adds a pop of color.

Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Notes

You can easily make egg salad ahead of time. Just follow these tips to keep it fresh and tasty.

Store in an Airtight Container

Place your classic egg salad in a sealed, airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and prevents odors from spreading.

Keeps Fresh for Up to 3 Days

You can store egg salad in the fridge for up to three days. Eat it sooner for the best taste.

Avoid Freezing

Don’t freeze egg salad. The texture will change, and it may turn watery after thawing.

Stir Before Serving

If the salad separates in the fridge, give it a quick stir. This brings back the creamy texture.

Great for Meal Prep

This is a perfect choice for egg salad meal prep. Make it today and enjoy it for lunch tomorrow.

Classic Egg Salad with Green Onions

Close-up of creamy classic egg salad topped with chopped green onions, served in a fresh lettuce leaf.

Classic Egg Salad with Green Onions

This Classic Egg Salad with Green Onions is creamy, flavorful, and quick to make. It combines chopped hard-boiled eggs with mayo, Dijon mustard, celery, and fresh green onions. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light lunch, it’s ready in just 20 minutes and packed with protein.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast, brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

  • 6 large eggs
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 small celery stalk finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Boil the eggs: Place eggs in a pot, cover with water, bring to a boil. Simmer 10 minutes. Cool, then peel.
  2. Chop the eggs: Dice them into small pieces.
  3. Make the dressing: In a bowl, mix mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add veggies: Stir in celery and green onions.
  5. Combine: Add chopped eggs and gently mix until coated.
  6. Chill (optional): Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes for best flavor.

FAQs

1. How do you make classic egg salad from scratch?

To make classic egg salad, mix chopped hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and green onions. Season to taste and chill before serving.

2. What’s the best way to boil eggs for egg salad?

Place eggs in cold water, bring to a boil, then simmer for 9–10 minutes. Cool them in ice water before peeling.

3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo in egg salad?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a healthy substitute. It makes the egg salad lighter while still creamy and flavorful.

4. Can I freeze egg salad?

No, freezing egg salad is not recommended. The texture changes and becomes watery when thawed.

5. How do I keep egg salad from getting watery?

Use well-drained ingredients and chill the salad before serving. Stir gently before eating if it separates.

Conclusion

This classic egg salad recipe is simple, creamy, and full of flavor. You can enjoy it in sandwiches, wraps, or on its own. It’s quick to make and works great for lunch or a snack.

You only need fresh eggs and a few pantry staples. In just minutes, you’ll have a tasty homemade egg salad ready to eat.

Try this easy egg salad today. It’s a great way to make your lunch fresh, fast, and satisfying.

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