Step 1: 🥚 Boil the Eggs

Start by boiling the eggs. Place the eggs in a medium-sized pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 9-12 minutes. Once the eggs are done, transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool down. Peel the eggs once they are cool.

Step 2: 🍳 Mash the Eggs

After peeling the eggs, chop them into small pieces or roughly mash them with a fork. The texture depends on your preference, so feel free to adjust it.

Step 3: 🧀 Mix the Cottage Cheese

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the mayonnaise (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: 🥒 Add the Vegetables

Finely chop the celery and green onions or chives, then add them to the cottage cheese mixture. This adds a nice crunch and a burst of freshness to your egg salad.

Step 5: 🥗 Combine the Ingredients

Add the chopped eggs to the cottage cheese mixture and gently fold everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, if needed.