When it comes to sandwich fillings there’s a whole bunch of flavours to choose from, but sometimes you just can’t beat a classic like egg.
Not only is it tasty, it’s a pretty healthy option too and really easy to prepare so you don’t have to spend ages faffing about. Normally, egg is paired with mayonnaise to make it more moist and creamy as a sandwich filling. And while this pairing is undoubtedly tasty, food experts say egg sandwiches can be made even better by ditching the mayo for another ingredient instead – avocado.
While avocado and egg might seem like an odd combination – fruit in a savoury sandwich doesn’t sound that appealing – but the two actually complement each other really well.
Avocados are naturally creamy as they are rich in monounsaturated fats (healthy fats that are good for heart health), which makes them ideal for use as a spread, similar to mayonnaise.
But mayonnaise, by comparison, is egg-based and high in saturated fats so avocado is a much healthier option and you won’t have to compromise that lovely creamy texture.
The flesh of a ripe avocado is also very smooth and buttery, so when mashed together with egg the result is almost velvety, with the fruit bringing a rich, buttery flavour that isn’t too overpowering.
Nicole Modic, recipe developer at Kale Junkie, explains: “You might be wondering how we manage to get this egg salad creamy, sans the mayo, and the answer lies in our secret ingredient: avocado! Avocado in egg salad!? Heck yes. It’s delicious, and works perfectly here.
“Avocado works similarly to mayo here, on account of the fact that it’s both creamy and fatty, just like mayo is! Seriously, don’t knock it until you try it, because it is absolutely delicious with egg salad. If you’re someone who likes eggs with/on your avocado toast, then you already know how good this combo is.”
Food experts say it’s important to make sure the avocado is ripe and soft so that it mashes easily with the egg and this will ultimately give your sandwich filling a creamier texture.
And if you want to add an extra kick of flavour, you can also add in some seasonings like black pepper, chives or dill, depending on your preferences.
Southern Living adds: “Avocados are full of healthy fats, so you get the creamy factor in your egg salad without the oil of mayonnaise. Yes, it’ll turn your egg salad green, but if you have a table of adventurous eaters, avocado and fresh herbs is an elegant way to dress up your tea sandwiches.
“Add in a whole mashed avocado for every six or so boiled eggs, and throw in a little Dijon mustard, fresh chives or dill, and cracked black pepper for depth. If your egg salad needs a little more liquid, try a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil.”