Summer Garden Egg Salad

Directions

Prepare the Eggs

1. Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot and remove it from the heat. Let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes.
2. Cool and Peel: After the time has passed, transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool for about 5 minutes. Once cooled, peel the eggs and chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Make the Salad

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Add Vegetables: Gently fold in the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and fresh herbs. Be careful not to mash the eggs too much— you want to maintain some texture.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the egg salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.

Serve the Salad

1. Chill: For the best flavor, refrigerate the egg salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
2. Enjoy: Serve the Summer Garden Egg Salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with your favorite crackers. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.

Tips and Tricks

• Perfectly Hard-Boiled Eggs: To achieve perfect hard-boiled eggs, ensure they are at room temperature before boiling, and add a splash of vinegar to the water to make peeling easier.
• Add Texture: For an added crunch, consider incorporating diced celery or chopped pickles into the salad.
• Use Greek Yogurt: Substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangier version.

Recipe Variations

• Protein Boost: Add diced cooked chicken or turkey to the egg salad for extra protein.
• Spicy Twist: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Mediterranean Style: Use olives, feta cheese, and roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean-inspired version.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Summer Garden Egg Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day. However, be aware that the vegetables may release moisture over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.