Name: Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 hard boiled eggs, peeled and coarsely chopped; ⅔ cup chopped pickles; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt; ¼ cup dill pickle juice; 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 2 to 3 tablespoons sweet relish; 1 teaspoon dried chives; ½ teaspoon dried dill weed; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh microgreens and dill; Pickles (optional)

Jump to Recipe·5 from 8 reviews

If you consider yourself truly passionate about all things tangy and packed with flavor, then you absolutely must try this Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad. It takes the classic egg salad to an entirely new level by combining perfectly cooked eggs with the zing of chopped pickles, the creaminess of mayo and Greek yogurt, and a splash of dill pickle juice that ties everything together. This vibrant, crunchy, and utterly delicious salad is the perfect way to brighten up your lunch or snack time, especially if you’re someone who never says no to a pickle punch in every bite.

Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple at first glance, but each one plays a key role in creating the distinct taste, texture, and inviting color of this Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad. From the creamy base to the crunchy pickles and fresh herbs, every component matters to achieve that perfect balance.

12 hard boiled eggs: The main star providing rich protein and a creamy texture when chopped.
⅔ cup chopped pickles: Adds that essential tang and crunch that pickle lovers crave.
¼ cup mayonnaise: Brings creaminess and helps bind the salad together smoothly.
3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt: Lightens the mayo while adding tangy depth.
¼ cup dill pickle juice: Infuses a bright, zesty pickle flavor into every bite.
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness and complexity.
2 to 3 tablespoons sweet relish: Offers sweetness and a little textured burst from tiny pickle bits.
1 teaspoon dried chives: Provides a delicate oniony note that complements the eggs.
½ teaspoon dried dill weed: Enhances the herbaceous flavor that dill lovers will adore.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential to season and bring all the flavors to life.
Fresh microgreens and dill for serving: Adds freshness and visual appeal when presenting.
Pickles for serving: The finishing touch to satisfy any pickle aficionado.

How to Make Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad

Step 1: Prepare Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs

The foundation of any great egg salad is perfectly cooked eggs, and here’s my foolproof method: place the eggs in a large pot with cold water covering them fully. Bring it to a boil and let it bubble for exactly one minute, then turn off the heat and cover. Let the pot sit untouched for 10 to 12 minutes so the eggs cook gently and evenly. Once done, move the pot to the sink and refresh with cold water — ideally multiple times and with ice cubes — for about 30 minutes to make peeling easy and stop the cooking process. The result? Tender yolks and firm whites that break apart beautifully.

Step 2: Chop and Combine

Coarsely chop the cooled hard boiled eggs into bite-sized chunks, then add them to a large bowl along with the chopped pickles. This sets the stage for all the creamy, tangy goodness to shine through when mixed together.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, dill pickle juice, Dijon mustard, sweet relish, dried chives, dried dill weed, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and pepper. This flavorful mixture forms the magic dressing that ties every ingredient into one harmonious salad.

Step 4: Toss and Taste

Gently pour the dressing over the chopped eggs and pickles, folding everything together with care so the eggs stay chunky and the salad keeps its vibrant texture. Give it a taste, then adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or relish if you want a sweeter touch. This step is key because it lets you tailor the Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad exactly to your pickle-loving dreams.

How to Serve Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad

Garnishes

Serving your Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad with a sprinkle of fresh microgreens or dill instantly elevates its appearance and adds a little pop of fresh herb flavor. It’s a lovely way to make the dish feel special and vibrant for the table.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides like sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or crunchy crackers. It also shines served over leafy greens or in lettuce cups if you want a fresh, low-carb option that keeps things bright and flavorful.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic sandwich! Spread this Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad over toasted sourdough or rye bread for an old-fashioned deli vibe. Or dollop it onto avocado halves or inside hollowed-out tomatoes for an elegant appetizer at your next gathering. It’s a versatile crowd-pleaser, ready for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying some fresh salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the fresh ingredients and pickle juice, it stays delicious for up to three days, though it’s best enjoyed sooner to keep the eggs nice and creamy.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad as the texture of the eggs and creamy base can become grainy or watery once thawed. For best taste and texture, keep it refrigerated and consume fresh.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no need to reheat. Simply let it sit out for 10 minutes if taken straight from the fridge to mellow the chill before serving for the fullest flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in the egg salad?

Absolutely! Fresh dill and chives can be wonderful additions that bring brightness and a bit more fragrance. Just use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried to maintain balance.

What type of pickles work best for this salad?

Dill pickles are the star here, ideally crunchy and firm. Pickles with a good tang and a bit of bite will complement the creamy eggs perfectly, but feel free to experiment with bread-and-butter or garlic pickles to customize your flavor.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream?

Yes, sour cream can be used to provide a similar creamy tang. It might make the salad a bit richer, so adjust the amount to your preference and taste as you go.

Is this salad good for meal prep lunches?

Definitely! Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad holds up well for a few days and makes a fantastic, protein-packed lunch. Pack it with some whole-grain bread or veggies for a balanced meal.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap out eggs for firm tofu or mashed chickpeas and use vegan mayo and yogurt alternatives. Add extra pickles and season well to capture that tangy, satisfying flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a recipe that speaks directly to pickle fans, and this Pickle Lovers’ Egg Salad does exactly that. It’s creamy, tangy, and bursting with texture in the most delightful way. Give it a try soon, and I promise it will become one of those go-to dishes you reach for whenever you want a satisfying and flavorful bite. You’re going to love every pickle-packed forkful!