1-First Step: Cook the eggs Place 8 large eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Bring water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and let simmer for 10 minutes for fully hard-boiled eggs. For alternative methods, steam eggs for 10 minutes or cook in an Instant Pot on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick-release.

2-Second Step: Cool and peel Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice water bath and chill for at least 5 minutes. Cooling stops the cooking and makes peeling easier. Tip: older eggs peel more cleanly than very fresh eggs. Once cooled, gently crack and peel each egg under running water to remove shells without tearing the whites.

3-Third Step: Separate and prep Cut each peeled egg in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolks and place them in a medium mixing bowl. Chop the whites finely and set them aside in a separate bowl. Keeping whites and yolks separate until this point helps you control texture.

4-Fourth Step: Make the creamy yolk base To the bowl with the yolks, add 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 1/2 teaspoons mustard (yellow or Dijon), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mash with a fork or a potato masher until very smooth and creamy. This step ensures a velvety base; mashing the yolks first with the mayo creates the classic smooth texture.

5-Fifth Step: Fold in the whites and mix-ins Gently fold the chopped egg whites into the yolk mixture. Add 1 thinly sliced green onion, 1 rib celery finely diced, and 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill (or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill). Mix gently until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a dash of mustard if you prefer extra tang.

6-Sixth Step: Chill and serve Chill the egg salad for at least 15 to 30 minutes to let flavors meld, though you can serve immediately if pressed for time. Serve 1/2 cup portions on bread for an egg salad sandwich, mound over mixed greens for a low-carb meal, or scoop onto crackers for a snack. This recipe serves about 4 people generously.