Introduction
Embrace a vibrant, refreshing take on a timeless classic with our Avocado Egg Salad on Cucumber Slices. This dish redefines egg salad, infusing it with the creamy richness of ripe avocado and serving it atop crisp, cool cucumber. It’s a delightful choice for light lunches, elegant brunches, or sophisticated appetizers that feel both indulgent and remarkably fresh. Perfect for those seeking a nutritious meal without compromising flavor, this recipe marries satisfying textures with bright, clean tastes. It’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights or entertaining, providing a healthy alternative that always impresses.
Ingredients
To embark on this culinary journey, gather these simple yet potent ingredients:
* 6 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and roughly chopped
* 2 ripe avocados, pitted and mashed
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or chives)
* 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 2 medium cucumbers (English or regular), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Eggs & Avocado: Ensure hard-boiled eggs are completely cooled before peeling and roughly chopping. In a medium bowl, gently mash ripe avocados with a fork, leaving some small chunks.
2. Combine Salad Base: Add chopped eggs to the bowl with mashed avocado. Gently fold them together to combine, being careful not to overmix.
3. Create Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh dill (or chives), and lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and a generous grind of black pepper.
4. Dress & Season: Pour the dressing over the egg and avocado mixture. Gently fold until all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for brightness and flavor.
5. Prepare Cucumbers: Wash and dry cucumbers. Using a sharp knife, slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. Gently pat slices dry for a sturdier base.
6. Assemble & Serve: Arrange cucumber slices on a serving platter. Spoon a generous dollop of avocado egg salad onto each round. Serve immediately for best crispness and flavor.
Expert Tips
Achieving culinary excellence often lies in the details. For perfectly hard-boiled eggs, place them in a single layer in a saucepan, cover with an inch of cold water, bring to a rolling boil, then remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 9-12 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath. When selecting avocados, look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure. To prevent your avocado egg salad from browning, always include a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface if storing. English cucumbers have fewer seeds and thinner skins, making them ideal for slicing. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving truly elevates the dish.
Variations
This versatile dish invites creativity! For added flavor and texture, consider folding in finely diced red onion, crisp celery, or sweet cherry tomatoes. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can introduce a delightful kick, while a teaspoon of curry powder offers an entirely different culinary landscape. For a leaner protein, try swapping out half the eggs for shredded cooked chicken or chickpeas (for vegetarian). Beyond cucumber, this avocado egg salad is equally delicious served in lettuce cups for a low-carb alternative, or spread on toasted whole-wheat bread for a more substantial sandwich. Experiment with different fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to truly make it your own.
Conclusion
The Avocado Egg Salad on Cucumber Slices offers a refreshing and satisfying experience that effortlessly elevates any meal. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re aiming for a healthy lunch, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or simply a delicious way to enjoy the goodness of eggs and avocados, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Embrace the freshness, savor the creamy textures, and enjoy the delightful ease of preparing a dish that’s both nourishing and incredibly flavorful.
