In our household, yogurt is a staple item. It’s not just something we pick up for a specific recipe; it’s as essential as olive oil or salt in our kitchen. With my Pakistani and Persian background, yogurt isn’t just an ingredient to me; it’s a key component of my cooking repertoire. I use it to marinate chicken, mix it with grated cucumber for a refreshing raita, and fold it into chopped beets. It often accompanies our meals, serving as a cooling element alongside spicy curries or complementing the richness of Persian-style stews known as khoreshts. This is why you’ll always find tubs of yogurt in my fridge.
When it comes to making egg salad, the inclusion of yogurt is a no-brainer for me. I combine it with mayonnaise to achieve a harmonious balance and the perfect creaminess that I desire.
The Benefits of Adding Yogurt to Egg Salad
Egg salad can sometimes feel too heavy and rich on its own. This is where yogurt steps in, providing a tangy contrast. It cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise, preventing the salad from feeling overly dense. Yogurt not only lightens the egg salad but also enhances its texture, resulting in a smoother consistency. By blending the two, I allow them to work together to achieve optimal balance.
The amount of yogurt you incorporate depends on your desired outcome. If you’re new to the idea, start with a 3:1 ratio of mayo to yogurt. For those seeking a lighter, tangier egg salad like myself, a 1:1 ratio is preferred. This ratio elevates the salad, giving it a brighter and more balanced flavor profile.
Choosing the Right Yogurt for Your Egg Salad
Not all yogurts are suitable for egg salad, and low-fat or thin varieties won’t cut it. If you’re using yogurt in your egg salad (and trust me, you should), opt for thick, full-fat, preferably Greek-style yogurt.
Thinner yogurts will result in a loose salad, and steer clear of anything sweet or flavored. Greek yogurt is ideal due to its thick and creamy consistency without being overly sticky. While goat or sheep’s milk yogurt could work, any grassy undertones might not complement your egg salad. Stick to full-fat, Greek-style yogurt for optimal results.
Enhancing Your Egg Salad
While yogurt plays a significant role in improving egg salad, adding a touch of smoked paprika or fresh herbs such as chopped chives can elevate it further. A hint of Dijon mustard also enhances the flavor profile.
Egg salad pairs well with bread, but I enjoy serving it in crisp lettuce cups. Little gem lettuce is my top choice as they are small, making them convenient for on-the-go bites and sturdy enough to pack in my son’s school lunch.
If you’ve only ever experienced egg salad the traditional way with mayo
