This Bacon Egg Salad is not just a recipe; it’s a brilliant solution for those moments when you find yourself with an abundance of hard-boiled eggs. Whether it’s post-Easter or you simply prepped a batch for meal planning, this recipe transforms them into a culinary delight. By introducing the smoky crunch of turkey bacon, the peppery bite of arugula, and the refreshing sweetness of fresh tomatoes, we elevate the classic egg salad into something truly special and exciting. Imagine enjoying this vibrant salad on your favorite toasted bread, nestled in soft croissant rolls, or as a protein-packed topping over a crisp bed of lettuce. It’s a versatile dish that promises flavor in every spoonful.
The arrival of spring often brings with it a delightful problem: a surplus of hard-boiled eggs. Whether from Easter egg hunts, holiday gatherings, or simply a successful batch of meal prep, these versatile ingredients are often waiting in the fridge, ready for their next culinary adventure. This Bacon Egg Salad recipe is specifically crafted to make the most of those eggs, offering a fresh and exciting twist on a beloved classic that will quickly become a household favorite.
What sets this particular egg salad apart is its vibrant flavor profile and intelligent use of fresh ingredients. You’ll immediately notice a delightful balance of tastes – a subtle sweetness from the relish and onion, beautifully contrasted with the savory richness of turkey bacon and the tangy kick of mustard. It’s a symphony of flavors that keeps you coming back for more, providing a satisfying and wholesome meal for any time of day.
The beauty of this easy egg salad lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of textures. It brings together perfectly chopped hard-boiled eggs, crispy turkey bacon, crisp arugula, and juicy tomatoes. These are all lovingly folded into a creamy dressing made from a thoughtful blend of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, which adds a wonderful tang and an extra boost of protein. To finish, a generous sprinkle of paprika adds both color and a smoky undertone, while fresh herbs like parsley brighten the entire dish. This is not just an egg salad; it’s an experience in every bite.
In a delicious partnership, the Ohio Poultry Association and I are thrilled to share this Bacon Egg Salad recipe with you. It’s a creative and flavorful homage to the beloved BLT sandwich, deconstructed and reimagined as a creamy, satisfying salad. It captures the essence of crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, and fresh greens (arugula or your preferred leafy greens) in an innovative take on classic egg salad. We love serving this versatile dish on soft sandwich bread, flaky croissants, or even spooned over a vibrant bed of fresh lettuce for a lighter meal.
If you’re looking for more creative ways to use up your bounty of hard-boiled eggs, be sure to explore other fantastic recipes. Consider trying our hearty Macaroni Egg Salad for a comforting classic, or indulge in the delightful sweetness of our Sweet Southern Egg Salad. For a complete meal, our Cobb Salad Recipe also makes excellent use of hard-boiled eggs, adding a protein-rich element to a colorful and satisfying salad.
Essential Ingredients for Your Bacon Egg Salad
Crafting the perfect Bacon Egg Salad begins with selecting quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the irresistible flavor and texture of this dish. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why these choices make all the difference:
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: The heart of any egg salad! These provide the creamy base and satisfying texture. For ultimate convenience, you can often find pre-hard-boiled eggs at your local grocery store, saving you a step. If boiling them yourself, ensure they are cooked to perfection – firm yolks, easy-to-peel whites.
- Fresh Vegetables: This recipe utilizes fresh cherry tomatoes, which burst with sweet flavor and add a beautiful pop of color. Feel free to use any ripe tomatoes you have on hand, diced into small pieces. Arugula provides a delightful peppery kick and crisp texture, but spinach or other tender greens can be used as a substitute. For added crunch and a more complex flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped red onion, celery, or even some thinly sliced green onions.
- Turkey Bacon: This ingredient is key to our “Bacon” Egg Salad, bringing a wonderful savory, smoky element without the heaviness of traditional pork bacon. Cook it until it’s perfectly crispy, then crumble it to distribute its delicious flavor throughout the salad. It’s a fantastic way to add an indulgent touch while keeping the dish a bit lighter.
- Creamy Dressing Base (Mayo and Yogurt): We use a balanced blend of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt to create a dressing that’s both rich and tangy. Greek yogurt not only adds a bright, zesty note but also boosts the protein content, making the salad more substantial. If you prefer a richer, less tangy profile, you can easily use all mayonnaise. For those who enjoy a different kind of creaminess, plain yogurt or even a touch of sour cream can work as alternatives.
- Flavorful Spices & Seasonings: Paprika is a personal favorite for egg salad; it contributes a lovely warm color and a subtle smoky depth. Yellow mustard provides that classic tangy zing that perfectly complements the eggs. Don’t be shy about customizing the spices! A pinch of onion powder enhances the savory notes, while a dash of garlic powder can add another layer of flavor. Always season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting until the flavors sing. Fresh herbs like dill, chives, or a mix of Italian parsley can also brighten the overall profile.
For precise ingredient measurements and detailed preparation steps, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card below.
Crafting Your Perfect Bacon Egg Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making this delicious Bacon Egg Salad is incredibly straightforward, perfect for a quick lunch or a flavorful addition to your meal prep. Follow these simple steps for a consistently delightful result:
- Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Bacon: Begin by cooking your turkey bacon until it reaches a beautiful crispness. You can do this in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven, or even in the microwave. Once perfectly cooked, remove it from the heat and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to cool. This step is crucial for achieving that desirable crunchy texture in your finished salad.
- Step 2: Combine the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine your chopped hard-boiled eggs with the fresh arugula and halved cherry tomatoes. Next, add the creamy dressing components: mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. Follow this with the flavorful additions: sweet relish, minced sweet onion, yellow mustard, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula or spoon to gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the egg salad too mushy.
- Step 3: Add Bacon and Garnish: Once the turkey bacon has cooled completely, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Add the chopped bacon to the egg salad mixture and gently fold it in. This ensures the bacon’s crunch is well distributed throughout. For a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of freshness, garnish the finished salad with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an additional dash of paprika.
- Step 4: Serve and Store: Your Bacon Egg Salad is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately on your favorite sandwich bread, as a delicious filling for a wrap, or as a light and refreshing meal over a bed of crisp lettuce. Any leftover egg salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Expert Tip: For the best flavor, allow the egg salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious salad.
Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations
This Bacon Egg Salad is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various meals and occasions. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Classic Sandwich: Serve it piled high on toasted whole wheat, rye, or white bread.
- Croissant Delight: For a touch of elegance, spoon the salad into fluffy, buttery croissants.
- Lettuce Wraps or Salad Bowl: For a low-carb option, serve it in large lettuce cups or over a generous bed of mixed greens.
- Stuffed Avocados: Halve an avocado, remove the pit, and fill the cavity with a scoop of egg salad for a healthy and satisfying meal.
- Appetizer: Serve with an assortment of crackers, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or mini pita pockets for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Breakfast or Brunch: A fantastic addition to any breakfast spread, especially on toast or alongside fresh fruit.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Salad:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or finely diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Herb Garden: Experiment with different fresh herbs. Dill, chives, cilantro, or a blend of Italian herbs can dramatically change the flavor profile.
- Extra Crunch: Introduce finely diced celery, bell peppers (red or green), or even some chopped pickles for added texture.
- Cheese Please: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or crumbled feta can add another layer of flavor and richness.
- Smoked Paprika: For an even deeper, richer smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular.
- Different Bacon: While turkey bacon is used here for a lighter touch, feel free to use regular pork bacon if preferred. You could even explore plant-based bacon alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Egg Salad & Hard-Boiled Eggs
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and storing this delicious egg salad, and about hard-boiled eggs in general:
Hard-boiled eggs, still in their shell, will spoil faster than fresh, raw eggs. It’s crucial to refrigerate them within 2 hours of cooking. When properly refrigerated, unpeeled hard-boiled eggs are safe to eat for up to one week. Once peeled, however, their shelf life decreases significantly, and they should ideally be consumed the same day or within 2-3 days if kept in an airtight container in the fridge.
Yes, you absolutely can freeze eggs, but not in their shells! Freezing raw eggs in their shells will cause them to crack due to expansion. To freeze eggs, you must first beat the yolks and whites together until blended. Egg whites can also be frozen by themselves. Store them in freezer-safe containers or bags. Frozen eggs should be used within one year for optimal quality. Note that hard-boiled eggs generally do not freeze well, as the whites can become rubbery and watery upon thawing.
Absolutely! The secret to easy-peel hard-boiled eggs often lies in proper cooling and sometimes even the age of the egg. Eggs are easiest to peel right after being shocked in an ice bath following cooking. The rapid cooling causes the egg to contract slightly within its shell, separating the membrane. Older eggs (about a week old) also tend to peel more easily than very fresh eggs. Adding a little vinegar or baking soda to the boiling water can also help. For consistently perfect, easy-to-peel hard-boiled eggs, try steaming them instead of boiling, or follow a pressure cooker method!
Yes, this egg salad is excellent for making ahead! In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator for a few hours, or even overnight, as they have more time to meld. Simply prepare the salad as directed, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. If you want to maintain maximum crunch, you can add the chopped bacon and arugula just before serving.
When made with turkey bacon and Greek yogurt, this Bacon Egg Salad can be a very nutritious and satisfying meal. Eggs are a fantastic source of protein and essential vitamins, while turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative to pork bacon. Greek yogurt adds more protein and probiotics. Paired with fresh vegetables like arugula and tomatoes, it provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Portion control and serving method (e.g., on lettuce wraps instead of heavy bread) can further enhance its health benefits.
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Bacon Egg Salad
Julia Jolliff
10 minutes
10 minutes
20 minutes
6 -8
Ingredients
- 8 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 4 pieces of turkey bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
- 1/4 cup arugula, chopped (or other greens like spinach)
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or diced ripe tomato)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt {or plain yogurt, or additional mayonnaise}
- 3 Tablespoons sweet relish
- 2 Tablespoons sweet onion, minced
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika {plus more for garnish}
- 1/4 teaspoon salt {to taste}
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper {to taste}
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
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Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet until it is nice and crispy. Once cooked, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to cool. This helps drain excess fat and ensures a perfect crunch.
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In a medium to large mixing bowl, gently combine the chopped hard-boiled eggs, fresh arugula, and halved cherry tomatoes. Add the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, sweet relish, minced sweet onion, yellow mustard, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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Using a spatula or spoon, gently mix all the ingredients until they are just combined. Be careful not to mash the eggs too much, as you want to maintain some texture.
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Once the turkey bacon has cooled, chop it into small pieces and add it to the egg salad mixture. Fold the bacon in gently to distribute it evenly.
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Garnish the finished Bacon Egg Salad with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and a little extra paprika for color. Serve immediately on your favorite sandwich bread, in croissant rolls, or over a refreshing bed of lettuce.
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Store any remaining egg salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Notes
Always taste the egg salad before serving and adjust the mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper to your liking. Some prefer a tangier salad, others enjoy a milder taste.
While arugula adds a unique peppery note, you can easily substitute it with any greens you have on hand, such as tender spinach or finely chopped romaine.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 5g,
Protein: 10g,
Fat: 14g,
Saturated Fat: 3g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 4g,
Trans Fat: 0.02g,
Cholesterol: 254mg,
Sodium: 328mg,
Potassium: 128mg,
Fiber: 0.3g,
Sugar: 4g,
Vitamin A: 536IU,
Vitamin C: 2mg,
Calcium: 48mg,
Iron: 1mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and is provided for informational purposes only. It should be used as an approximation.
Tried this recipe?Mention @acedarspoon or tag #acedarspoon!
Today’s post is proudly sponsored by The Ohio Poultry Association. As always, all opinions and culinary creations are 100% my own.
Why This Bacon Egg Salad Will Become Your New Go-To
There are countless egg salad recipes out there, but this Bacon Egg Salad truly stands out. It’s more than just a quick meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to your taste buds and convenience to your kitchen. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making this recipe a staple:
- Perfect for Leftovers: Say goodbye to wondering what to do with extra hard-boiled eggs. This recipe provides an incredibly flavorful and satisfying solution, ensuring no egg goes to waste.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of creamy eggs, savory turkey bacon, sweet relish, tangy mustard, and fresh vegetables creates a complex flavor profile that is anything but bland. It’s a symphony of sweet, savory, and tangy notes.
- Quick & Easy Preparation: With hard-boiled eggs already on hand, this salad comes together in just minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, effortless lunches, or last-minute gatherings.
- Health-Conscious Twist: By opting for turkey bacon and Greek yogurt, we’ve made this classic a bit lighter without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. It’s packed with protein and fresh ingredients.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer it on toast, in a wrap, scooped onto crackers, or as a vibrant topping for a green salad, this Bacon Egg Salad adapts to your cravings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The familiar comfort of egg salad combined with the universally loved flavors of bacon and fresh produce makes this a hit with family and friends of all ages. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family lunch.
This Bacon Egg Salad isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to enjoy simple, fresh, and deeply satisfying food. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite way to enjoy hard-boiled eggs!