Keto Whole30 Egg Salad

This keto and Whole30 egg salad has become my go-to protein-packed lunch option that satisfies both my dietary needs and my taste buds. The combination of creamy eggs with crunchy bacon creates that perfect texture contrast that makes this dish irresistible.

I first created this recipe during my initial Whole30 challenge when I was desperately seeking something both compliant and satisfying. Now it's become such a staple that I make a batch every Sunday for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Ingredients

• Hard boiled eggs: form the protein-rich base of this salad with their creamy, satisfying texture
• Red onion: adds a sharp bite that balances the richness perfectly
• Sugar-free bacon: brings irresistible crunch and smoky flavor that transforms this from basic to addictive
• Paleo mayonnaise: creates the creamy binding that holds everything together
• Dijon mustard: cuts through the richness with tangy depth
• Fresh chives: contribute a mild onion flavor and beautiful color
• Sea salt: enhances all the flavors and brings everything together
• Black pepper: adds subtle heat and complexity
• Smoked paprika: provides a gentle smoky undertone that complements the bacon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare The Eggs:

Peel your hard-boiled eggs carefully and chop them into small, uniform pieces about the size of your pinky fingernail. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl, being gentle to maintain some texture rather than mashing them completely.

Combine All Ingredients:

Add the diced red onion, crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, dijon mustard, sliced chives, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to the bowl with the chopped eggs. The measurements are starting points, so don't worry about being exact at this stage.

Mix Thoroughly:

Use a large spoon to gently fold and stir the ingredients together until everything is evenly distributed. Take care not to overmix, as you want to maintain some texture in the eggs rather than creating a paste.

Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the mixture and add more mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier consistency or additional salt if needed. This is your opportunity to customize the salad to your exact preferences.

Chill Before Serving:

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is even better. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and the texture to set properly.

Save This

The bacon is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its importance accidentally when I ran out once and made the salad without it. My husband immediately noticed something was missing, and ever since, I've never skipped this crucial ingredient that transforms a simple egg salad into something truly craveable.

Storage Success

This egg salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve after the first day as everything melds together. If you notice any liquid separation after storage, simply give it a quick stir before serving. I recommend portioning it into individual containers if using for meal prep to grab and go throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete keto meal, serve this egg salad in lettuce cups using butter lettuce or romaine hearts as the perfect edible vessels. It also pairs wonderfully with sliced cucumber rounds as dippers for a refreshing crunch. For those not strictly following keto or Whole30, it makes an exceptional filling for half an avocado or stuffed into a hollowed-out tomato for a beautiful presentation that adds extra nutrients.

Instant Pot Advantage

The Instant Pot method mentioned in the notes truly revolutionizes the egg-boiling process. The pressure cooking creates eggs that peel effortlessly every time, eliminating that frustrating experience of eggs that won't peel cleanly. The consistency is also perfect, with fully cooked but never rubbery yolks that maintain a beautiful yellow color without any of that grayish-green ring that can form around overcooked yolks.

Common Queries

→ How can I easily peel hard-boiled eggs?

Placing cooked eggs in an ice bath for at least five minutes after boiling helps the shells peel off more easily.

→ What kind of mayonnaise works best?

Paleo mayonnaise keeps this dish Whole30 and keto-friendly, but any creamy mayo or homemade version will work.

→ Can I add other herbs or vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding fresh dill, parsley, or diced celery for extra flavor and crunch.

→ How long should the salad chill before serving?

Refrigerate for at least two hours to let the flavors blend, but overnight makes it even tastier.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to three days and makes a convenient, protein-rich meal or side.