This recipe is for a Classic Egg Salad Sandwich, a simple yet satisfying sandwich featuring a creamy and flavorful egg salad filling nestled between slices of bread. Egg salad is a versatile spread made primarily from hard-boiled eggs that have been chopped or mashed and then mixed with mayonnaise and seasonings. This sandwich is a popular choice for a quick lunch, a light snack, or a picnic, offering a good source of protein and a comforting taste. The base of the egg salad is hard-boiled eggs, which are cooked until firm, cooled, peeled, and then broken down into smaller pieces. The texture can range from finely mashed to coarsely chopped, depending on personal preference. Mayonnaise is the key ingredient that binds the eggs together and adds a creamy richness to the salad. The amount of mayonnaise used can be adjusted to achieve the desired consistency. Common seasonings include salt, black pepper, and often a touch of mustard (yellow or Dijon) for a bit of tanginess. Finely chopped celery and/or onion (yellow, red, or green) are frequently added for a refreshing crunch and a subtle savory flavor. Fresh herbs like chives, dill, or parsley can also be incorporated for added freshness and a hint of herbaceousness. The egg salad is then generously spread between two slices of bread. The choice of bread can vary widely, from simple white or whole wheat to more artisanal options like sourdough or multigrain. The sandwich can be served as is, or with additional toppings such as lettuce leaves, tomato slices, or sprouts for added texture and flavor. The image shows a generously filled egg salad sandwich made with what appears to be whole wheat or multigrain bread, sprinkled with fresh chives. The creamy, yellow-tinged egg salad filling is clearly visible between the slices of bread.
The texture of a Classic Egg Salad Sandwich is a delightful combination of the soft bread and the creamy, slightly chunky egg salad filling. The chopped eggs provide some texture, while the mayonnaise creates a smooth and cohesive spread. If celery or onion is included, it adds a pleasant crunch.
The flavor profile is savory and rich, with the mild taste of the eggs enhanced by the creamy tanginess of the mayonnaise and the subtle sharpness of mustard (if used). The addition of celery or onion contributes a fresh, savory note, while herbs like chives add a mild, oniony flavor.
A Classic Egg Salad Sandwich is perfect for a quick and easy lunch, a light snack, a picnic, or as part of a packed lunch. It’s a simple yet satisfying option for any time of day.
The preparation of a Classic Egg Salad Sandwich involves hard-boiling eggs, preparing the egg salad by chopping and mixing the eggs with mayonnaise and seasonings, and then spreading the salad between slices of bread.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or more, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard or Dijon mustard (to taste)
- ¼ cup finely chopped celery (optional)
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion or green onion (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, dill, or parsley (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, sourdough, etc.)
- Optional toppings: lettuce leaves, tomato slices, sprouts
Equipment:
- Saucepan (for boiling eggs)
- Large bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Fork or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions:
- Hard-Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover them with cold water by about an inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat, cover, and let sit for 10-12 minutes for hard-boiled eggs.
- Cool and Peel the Eggs: Immediately transfer the cooked eggs to an ice bath to cool completely. Once cooled, peel the eggs.
- Chop the Eggs: Chop the peeled hard-boiled eggs into your desired consistency. You can use a knife, an egg slicer, or mash them with a fork for a smoother salad.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, and mustard (if using). Stir gently until well mixed.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, stir in the finely chopped celery, onion (red or green), and fresh herbs (chives, dill, or parsley).
- Season the Salad: Season the egg salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the prepared egg salad evenly on one slice of bread. Top with another slice of bread.
- Add Optional Toppings (if desired): You can add lettuce leaves, tomato slices, or sprouts to the sandwich before placing the top slice of bread.
- Serve: Slice the sandwich in half if desired and serve immediately or wrap and refrigerate for later.
Enjoy your delicious Classic Egg Salad Sandwich!