Image by Joseph Gonzalez

Egg salad

Ah yes, the humble egg salad, a staple of sandwiches all across the globe; a versatile and delicious dish that has been cheerfully filling bellies since who knows when. But what is it that makes this seemingly simplistic mix so delectable? Let's take a dive into the ludicrously luscious world of egg salad to find out!

Egg salad


To begin, the ingredients are surpassed in simplicity only by their engrossing goodness. Eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper make up the basis of the recipe, but variations abound! Sweet relish, capers, garlic, horseradish, paprika, bacon—the list goes on! As far as combinations are concerned, the sky is the limit.

What I find to be so enthralling about egg salad, however, is its ability to be an incredibly adaptable condiment; its neutral flavor pairs charmingly with so many different ingredients. Whether it be plopped onto an arugula salad with diced tomatoes, spread between two slices of toast with sprouts, or stuffed into a wrap with some crunchy veggies, egg salad almost always elevates the overall dish to delicious new heights.

So next time you find yourself in the mood for something savory yet uncomplicated, try a little egg salad! A few minutes of quick prep and you'll be abundantly rewarded with a satisfying meal that's sure to have your taste buds titillated. Trust me, you won't regret it!

The origin of Egg salad

There is something undeniably satisfying about a good egg salad. What inherently has the potential to be so unassuming can, when made correctly, be truly transportive. It is a curious thing, really - how something so deceptively simple can carry so much flavor and variation.

Egg salad originates from a long lineage of traditional dishes from around the world, such as in Japan and Thailand, that are prepared with some combination of eggs, mayonnaise, and vegetables – but it is often thought to have taken its final form in Southwest Germany in the late 19th century.

In the late 19th century, German immigrants introduced their egg salad recipes to the United States (which had been traditionally popular in Europe) and began serving them in restaurants and hotels as a quick and easy lunch option. This became an undoubted favorite with diners and before long, it had gained considerable renown.

The preparation of egg salad as it is known today is generally credited to Louis Colomb, also known as "Colomb the Eggman." A French chef working in New York City in the late 1880s, Colomb experimented with different combinations of eggs, mayonnaise, pickles, celery, and onions - and eventually discovered the perfect recipe. His particular contribution was to chop the ingredients finely; this allowed for all ingredients to be mixed together homogeneously and evenly, creating the creamy texture that we all know and love.

It is from this recipe, which was published in print in 1893, that the modern egg salad was born. Ever since, it has remained a classic staple on restaurant menus and in households worldwide, with each region and culture often adding their own unique twist.

So the next time you savour a well-crafted egg salad sandwich or wrap, take a moment to appreciate the little culinary miracle born in Southwest Germany in the late 19th century – that of Louis Colomb’s inspired maneuvering.

FAQs about Egg salad

How long does egg salad last in the fridge?

Egg salad will last for up to four days in the fridge.


Is egg salad made from hard boiled eggs?

Yes, egg salad is typically made with hard boiled eggs which are then mashed or chopped.


What goes with egg salad?

Common accompaniments to egg salad include crackers, toast, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and other vegetables.


What is inside an egg salad sandwich?

Egg salad sandwiches typically contain boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper. Some variations may include other ingredients such as celery, onion, pickles, paprika, dill, parsley, and garlic.


Types of Egg salad

Are you looking for a delicious dish that will tantalize your taste buds and provide a hearty dose of nutrition? Look no further than the humble egg salad, a beloved classic across many cultures. With its many variations, egg salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any palate or dietary preference.

A great foundation for any egg salad recipe is the combination of boiled eggs, mayonnaise, and seasonings. From there, the possibilities are endless! Popular additions include diced celery and onion, pickles, and dill relish. Fresh herbs like parsley and chives, as well as minced garlic, can also infuse egg salad with a burst of flavor. Similarly, crunchy elements such as bacon, toasted nuts, and crumbled crackers bring in a welcome contrast of texture.

No matter your preference, there's an egg salad for all! Baked egg salads substitute the boiled eggs with hard-baked versions, making them a great option for those who prefer a firmer bite. If you're seeking something lighter and lower in cholesterol, try a zippy eggless version. To make it, combine silken tofu with plant-based yogurt, garlic powder, black pepper, and lemon juice.

Not all egg salads have to stay within the traditional lines; they can be tailored to a variety of diets and health goals. For those following a vegan or vegetarian diet, there's the delightful tofu scramble egg salad. A high-protein spin can be made using Greek yogurt and shredded rotisserie chicken. Keto and paleo diets are also accommodated, with recipes utilizing substitute ingredients such as cauliflower rice and almond flour.

What's the perfect accompaniment to egg salad? Slather it between two slices of your favorite bread for a classic sandwich, or roll it up in a crunchy lettuce wrap for a refreshing meal. Another tasty option is a scoop of egg salad atop a bed of greens and assorted vegetables for a savory and nutritious salad.

Try experimenting with different ingredients and combinations and have fun creating your own unique egg salad recipes. Whether prepared simply or with extra flair, egg salad is sure to please the crowd!