This Egg and Cheese Salad with Spicy Cilantro-Pepitas Aioli sounds like a flavorful, vibrant dish that’s packed with protein and a delicious, creamy aioli to tie everything together! Here’s a recipe that you can try:
Egg and Cheese Salad with Spicy Cilantro-Pepitas Aioli
Ingredients:
For the salad:
- 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese), cubed
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Spicy Cilantro-Pepitas Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- 1-2 small fresh jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat, or leave them in for more spice)
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Make the Spicy Cilantro-Pepitas Aioli:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), chopped cilantro, roasted pepitas, jalapeños, lime juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—add more lime juice for acidity or more jalapeños for extra heat.
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, add the chopped hard-boiled eggs, cubed cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and fresh cilantro.
- Gently toss everything together.
- Add the Aioli:
- Pour the spicy cilantro-pepitas aioli over the salad and gently toss again until the salad is evenly coated with the aioli.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes before serving for a colder, more refreshing option.
Tips:
- Cheese options: You can use any cheese you like—cheddar, feta, or even goat cheese would work beautifully.
- Make it spicy: If you prefer more heat, add a bit of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the aioli.
- Vegan variation: Replace the eggs and cheese with tofu and vegan cheese, and use a plant-based mayo to make the aioli.
This Egg and Cheese Salad with Spicy Cilantro-Pepitas Aioli is great as a main dish or a side, and it’s packed with fresh flavors and creamy, spicy goodness. Enjoy!