Name: Classic Egg Salad Sandwich with Mustard and Mayo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: English
Ingredients: 12 lg. eggs, hard-boiled; 3 – 4 T. mayonnaise, to desired consistency; 1 t. dry mustard; 1-1/2 tsp. horseradish sauce or dry horseradish powder; Finely chopped celery, to taste; Sea salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Chives or green onions, to taste; Lettuce leaves, romaine or green leaf preferred

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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the Classic Egg Salad Sandwich with Mustard and Mayo. This timeless favorite combines creamy, rich flavors with the satisfying crunch of fresh ingredients, making it a perfect choice for lunch, picnics, or a quick snack. The combination of hard-boiled eggs, tangy mustard, and creamy mayonnaise creates a delightful, hearty, and refreshing mix.

Whether you spread it generously on bread or pile it onto a bed of greens, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of nostalgia to your meal. Get ready to whip up this easy and delicious classic egg salad recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy to Make: This easy egg salad recipe can be made with just a few simple steps. It’s a perfect choice for busy days or last-minute meals.
Customizable & Simple Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins—like diced celery, onions, or herbs—to make the recipe your own and suit your taste preferences.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the eggs and lower in carbs, this sandwich is nutritious and keeps you feeling full without weighing you down.
Perfect for Meal Prep: The egg salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for a few days, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.

What is the Best Way to Boil the Eggs?

Boiling eggs to perfection is essential in crafting your Classic Egg Salad Sandwich. Several methods are available, with stovetop boiling and using an Instant Pot being two popular options.

Stovetop Method

Start by placing your eggs in a single layer in a medium saucepan. Add enough cold water to cover the eggs by about an inch.
Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, cover the saucepan and remove it from the heat.
Let the eggs sit in the boiling water, covered, for about 9-12 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness (9 minutes for slightly soft yolks, 12 for fully hard-boiled).
After the time is up, place eggs in an ice water bath to cool them quickly and make peeling easier.

Instant Pot Method

Pour one cup of water into the Instant Pot and place the metal trivet inside. Arrange the eggs on the trivet.
Secure the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the eggs and place them in an ice bath for a few minutes to cool.

Ingredients

Eggs: Fresh eggs are the star of the egg salad, providing protein and creaminess. For the best flavor and quality, look for free-range or organic eggs.
Hard-Boiled Mayonnaise: Choose a mayonnaise that complements your taste, whether it’s classic, olive oil-based, or even an avocado version for a healthier twist. The mayonnaise adds creaminess and richness to your salad, binding the ingredients together perfectly.
Dry Mustard: This ingredient adds a zesty kick to your egg salad. Look for high-quality mustard powder, as it enhances the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
Horseradish Sauce or Dry Horseradish Powder: Horseradish adds a pleasant tang and a bit of heat for an extra layer of flavor. Choose between prepared horseradish sauce for convenience or dry horseradish powder, which can be easily adjusted to your desired spice level.
Celery: Fresh, crisp celery provides a wonderful crunch to your egg salad. When selecting celery, opt for vibrant green stalks with leaves still attached for maximum freshness.
Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Essential spices that elevate the taste of your dish. Opt for flaky sea salt for a sophisticated touch, and fresh-ground black pepper to release the most flavour.
Chives or Green Onions: These fresh herbs add a subtle onion-like flavor and a vibrant color to your egg salad. Chives are milder, while green onions provide a bolder taste. Choose fresh herbs to ensure maximum flavor and freshness.
Lettuce Leaves (Romaine or Green Leaf Preferred): Use crisp romaine or tender green leaf lettuce to serve your egg salad. Not only do these greens add a refreshing crunch, but they also create an appealing presentation, perfect for a light lunch or picnic.

Substitutions and Additions

When it comes to creating your Classic Egg Salad Sandwich, you can consider numerous substitutions and additions to tailor the recipe to your personal taste or dietary needs.

Eggs: You can substitute traditional chicken eggs with hard-boiled duck eggs for a richer flavor. For a plant-based alternative, try using tofu to create a similar texture while keeping it vegan.
Mayonnaise: If you want a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise made from aquafaba. These alternatives maintain creaminess while providing a healthier profile.
Dry Mustard: For a different flavor twist, try using Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard. This will give your egg salad an extra layer of complexity.
Horseradish: If you prefer less heat, you can use a mild spicy mustard, which adds flavor without overpowering the dish.
Celery: For those who enjoy a tangy crunch in their salad, finely chopped pickles or relish can replace celery, while diced bell peppers can add sweetness and color.
Fresh Chives or Green Onions: Fresh dill or parsley can also be great additions, enhancing the salad with herbal notes that complement the eggs beautifully. Try a red onion for a bit of color and a slightly different flavor profile.
Extras: Consider stirring in some diced avocado for a creamy texture or adding a handful of capers for a salty, briny kick. For a spicy twist, finely chopped jalapeños or some sriracha can add a bit of heat to your egg salad.

Instructions

Hard boiled eggs using your preferred method (stovetop or Instant Pot).
Once cooked, peel eggs and chop the eggs into bite-sized pieces and place in a medium bowl.
Finely chop the celery.

In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Horseradish
- Finely chopped celery

Mix the ingredients well until combined.
Gently fold in the chopped eggs until evenly coated.
Season with salt, pepper, and chives to taste.

Slice croissants in half.
On the bottom half of each croissant, layer a piece of lettuce.
Add a generous portion of the egg salad on top of the lettuce.
Place the croissant tops on and arrange on a platter.
Serve alongside a vegetable display and dip.

Recipe Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: To enhance the flavor and texture of your egg salad, opt for the freshest eggs, herbs, and vegetables.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Start with smaller amounts of salt, pepper, and add-ins, then taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor profile.
Chill Before Serving: Chill this simple egg salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Experiment with Textures: Mix chopped nuts or seeds to add an unexpected crunch to your egg salad.
Make Ahead: Prepare the egg salad a day in advance; it will stay fresh in the fridge and can enhance the flavors overnight.
Presentation Matters: Serve your egg salad in halved avocados or tomatoes for an attractive and healthy presentation.
Portion Control: For meal prep, store the egg salad in individual portions in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious Sandwich pairs beautifully with various sides and accompaniments to create a delightful meal. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Fresh Fruit: A side of seasonal fruit salad or sliced melons adds a refreshing, sweet contrast to the savory egg salad.
Chips or Crisps: For a satisfying crunch, serve with a bowl of your favorite potato chips or vegetable crisps.
Pickles or Olives: Tangy pickles or marinated olives provide an excellent complement, cutting through the richness of the egg salad.
Soup: A light soup, such as tomato basil or a chilled cucumber, makes for a comforting and wholesome pairing.
Salad: A simple green salad drizzled with a vinaigrette can add a crisp, fresh element to your meal.
Crudités and Dip: For a nutritious and colorful addition, offer a platter of fresh vegetables alongside a dip, such as hummus or ranch.
Beverages: For a refreshing beverage option that complements the meal, consider serving iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with a slice of lemon.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftover egg salad, refrigerate it in an airtight container. It’s best consumed within 3 to 5 days for optimal freshness. While egg salad does not freeze well due to changes in texture upon thawing, you can prepare the components separately and freeze them, such as boiled eggs, to use later in fresh egg salad.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use leftover hard-boiled eggs for this classic recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover hard-boiled eggs work perfectly in egg salad. Just make sure they are fresh, and follow the same steps to chop and combine them with the other ingredients.

What can I do if I don’t have mayonnaise on hand?

If you’re out of mayonnaise, make a simple dressing using mashed avocado mixed with vinegar or lemon juice for tang. Alternatively, Greek yogurt or sour cream can serve as a creamy substitute.

How do I make my egg salad less chunky?

If you prefer a smoother texture, you can mash the eggs with a fork or blend everything together in a food processor until you reach your desired consistency.

Is there a way to make this simple recipe spicier?

Mix in sriracha, chopped jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce to add some heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance for the perfect kick.

Can I add other vegetables to the egg salad?

Definitely! For added nutrition and texture, feel free to incorporate finely chopped vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, or even grated carrots. Just make sure to balance the flavors, so they complement the eggs.

6 portions