2 tablespoons finely minced shallot or green onion (soak in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow the raw bite)
1 rib of celery, finely diced
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish or finely chopped cornichons
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (dill, chives, or parsley)
Combine: Gently fold the chopped egg whites and all the mix-ins into the creamy yolk base.
Season to Perfection: Add ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of paprika or cayenne. Taste! Adjust with more salt, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a dash of hot sauce as desired.
The Complete Recipe: Your Blueprint for Perfection
Ingredients:
8 large eggs
½ cup high-quality mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
2 tbsp minced shallot or green onion
1 celery rib, finely chopped
2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
2 tbsp fresh dill or chives, chopped
½ tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
Pinch of paprika
Instructions:
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Steam & Cool: Steam eggs for 11-12 minutes, then plunge into an ice bath. Peel once completely cool.
Separate & Mash: Separate yolks and whites. In a bowl, mash yolks into a fine paste.
Create the Base: To the yolks, add mayo, mustard, and yogurt. Whisk until perfectly smooth.
Chop & Prep: Chop egg whites. Prepare celery, shallot, relish, and herbs.
Combine & Season: Gently fold whites and all mix-ins into the yolk base. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Taste and adjust.
Rest & Serve: For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
Chef’s Pro-Tips for Next-Level Egg Salad
The Flavor Rest: Let the finished salad chill for 30 minutes to an hour before serving. This allows the shallots to mellow and the flavors to marry beautifully.
Texture Variations: Add crunch with a tablespoon of capers or finely chopped toasted nuts (almonds, pecans).
Herb Swap: Tarragon adds a lovely, subtle anise note that pairs wonderfully with eggs.
Serving Suggestions: Beyond bread, serve on butter lettuce cups, in an avocado half, or with crispy crackers.
By embracing the « savory yolk paste » technique and paying attention to each component, you elevate egg salad from a simple mix to a culinary delight. It’s a lesson in technique that proves the best dishes are often about how you treat the basics.
Enjoy your food!
