Crispy Egg Salad

If you’re looking for a simple yet delightful dish that brings a smile to your face, then Crispy Egg Salad is just what you need! This recipe has become a family favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you. It’s not only delicious but also quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even a cozy weekend gathering. Trust me, once you taste those crispy little egg salad cakes, you’ll understand why this recipe holds a special place in my heart.

The beauty of Crispy Egg Salad lies in its wonderful blend of flavors and textures. The hard-boiled eggs provide that classic creaminess while the crispy sear adds an exciting crunch. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s bound to impress your friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delightful meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun presentation of egg salad “cakes,” making it a hit at family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These egg salad cakes can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for meal prep.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy mozzarella and spicy sriracha gives this recipe an irresistible kick.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or atop fresh greens for a light lunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this Crispy Egg Salad! Each one plays an important role in creating those deliciously crispy cakes that you’re going to love.

For the Egg Salad Cakes

• 6 hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (you can also use kewpie mayonnaise for extra flavor)
• ½ tablespoon sriracha
• 2 teaspoons chives (chopped small)
• Kosher salt (to season)
• Black pepper (a few turns of cracked black pepper)

Variations

One of the best things about this Crispy Egg Salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some finely diced bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and freshness.
• Change Up the Cheese: If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, try using cheddar or feta for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Increase the sriracha for more heat or add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Herb It Up: Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley to give it a fresh twist.

How to Make Crispy Egg Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture

Start by chopping your hard-boiled eggs into small pieces. This helps them mix well with the other ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped eggs with shredded mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, sriracha, and chopped chives. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Mixing these ingredients together ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 2: Form the Cakes

Once everything is combined, it’s time to form your egg salad mixture into small cakes. Use your hands to shape them into patties—about the size of your palm works great. This step is crucial because shaping them allows for that perfect crispy texture when pan-seared!

Step 3: Pan-Seer to Perfection

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. When hot, carefully place your formed egg salad cakes into the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Don’t rush this step; letting them get nice and crispy makes all the difference!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove your Crispy Egg Salad cakes from the skillet and serve warm. They make an excellent main dish or side! Pair them with fresh greens or enjoy them on their own—the choice is yours!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Egg Salad

Making the perfect Crispy Egg Salad is all about attention to detail, and I’m here to help you achieve that crispy perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality mayonnaise make a world of difference in flavor. Freshness enhances the taste and texture of your salad, giving it that delightful homemade feel.
• Chop eggs evenly: Ensuring your hard-boiled eggs are chopped into uniform pieces allows for even mixing with the other ingredients. This consistency means every bite will have just the right balance of flavors.
• Don’t skimp on seasoning: A pinch of kosher salt and a dash of black pepper can elevate your egg salad. Proper seasoning brings out the flavors and makes each bite more enjoyable.
• Form uniform patties: When shaping your egg salad into cakes, aim for similar sizes. Uniformity helps them cook evenly, ensuring a nice crisp on the outside while remaining creamy inside.
• Preheat the pan properly: Make sure your cooking surface is hot before adding the egg salad cakes. A well-preheated pan creates that beautiful golden crust that we all crave in a crispy dish.

How to Serve Crispy Egg Salad

Crispy Egg Salad is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this delightful dish for maximum enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Adding parsley or cilantro can brighten up your egg salad and offer a fresh, aromatic touch.
• Sliced radishes: These add a crunchy texture and a pop of color, making your dish visually appealing.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a splash of citrusy brightness right before enjoying their meal.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A refreshing mixed green salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the egg salad and adds a healthy crunch.
• Sweet potato fries: The natural sweetness and slight crispiness of sweet potato fries create an enjoyable contrast with the creamy egg salad.
• Pickled vegetables: Tangy pickles or pickled carrots provide a zesty kick that complements the flavors beautifully, making each bite more exciting.
• Whole grain toast: Serve your egg salad on top of toasted whole grain bread for added texture and an extra layer of flavor—perfect for an open-faced sandwich!

Enjoy experimenting with these tips and serving ideas. Your Crispy Egg Salad is sure to impress at lunch gatherings or as part of a cozy dinner at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crispy Egg Salad is not only a delight to eat but also a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weekdays or quick lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
• If the salad becomes too moist, consider adding a bit more shredded mozzarella to restore texture.

Freezing

• Freezing is not recommended for this dish as it may alter the texture of the eggs and cheese.
• For best results, enjoy your Crispy Egg Salad fresh!

Reheating

• If you prefer your egg salad warmed slightly, heat gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat.
• Avoid using the microwave, as it can lead to uneven heating and rubbery eggs.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Crispy Egg Salad.

What makes this Crispy Egg Salad unique?

This recipe stands out because of its crunchy texture achieved by pan-searing egg salad “cakes,” giving you a delightful twist on traditional egg salad.

Can I make Crispy Egg Salad without mayonnaise?

Yes! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or avocado for a creamier consistency while keeping it delicious and healthy.

How can I customize my Crispy Egg Salad?

Feel free to add your favorite herbs, spices, or even diced vegetables to make it your own! Chopped celery or bell peppers can add extra crunch.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Crispy Egg Salad as much as I do! It’s such a fun and flavorful dish that brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s satisfying and delightful. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists on the recipe. Enjoy every bite!