Hungry Healthy Happy

menu icon
go to homepage
  • About Us
  • Recipe Index
  • Meal Plans
  • Recipes To Your Inbox
  • Shop
search icon
Homepage link
  • About Us
  • Recipe Index
  • Meal Plans
  • Recipes To Your Inbox
  • Shop
×
Hungry Healthy Happy » Recipes » Sandwiches

Egg and Cress Sandwich

Nov 11, 2024 · Written by Dannii Martin · This post may contain affiliate links which earn us commissions if purchases are made · 10 Comments

93 shares
  • 34
Diet: Vegetarian
Jump to Recipe
Egg and cress sandwich with a text title overlay.
Egg and cress sandwich with a text title overlay.

An Egg and Cress Sandwich is an underrated classic. This simple yet satisfying sandwich is made with boiled eggs, fresh cress, and mayonnaise, all sandwiched between two slices of bread. It's a perfect option for a quick and easy lunch or snack.

Eight triangular egg sandwiches on a round wooden serving board.

One of the best things about the egg sandwich is how versatile it is. You can use any type of bread you like, from crusty white bread to wholemeal or seeded bread.

You can also add other ingredients to the sandwich, such as sliced tomatoes or cucumber, to give it a bit of extra flavour and texture. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover boiled eggs you might have in the fridge too.

Looking for other sandwich recipes? Why not try our vegan Hummus Sandwich, delicious Mushroom Sandwich, classic Cheese Savoury Sandwich or Loaded Tuna Sandwich?

Jump to:
  • Ingredients and Substitutions
  • Variations
  • How to Make Egg and Cress Sandwiches - Step by Step
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Extra Tips
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • More Egg Recipes
  • Recipe
  • Feedback

Ingredients and Substitutions

All the ingredients needed for this recipe with text overlay labels.

A full ingredients list, along with US Customary and Metric measurements, can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.

  • Bread - For this egg and cress sandwich, I prefer to use wholemeal seeded bread, as it is healthier and provides a nuttier flavour. However, white bread can be used as well. The bread should be sliced thinly and you can toast it slightly if you like.
  • Eggs - We used medium eggs. Use the best quality high welfare eggs that you can.
  • Mayonnaise - Full fat mayo will give the best flavour, but you can use light if you prefer. You don't have to add this if you want to keep it lighter, but we love the extra creaminess and it does make it easier to spread the mixture on bread.
  • Cress - Such a great budget ingredient for adding colour and flavour. We added some watercress on the side too. The cress we have used in the actual sandwich is garden cress, also known as mustard cress.
  • Salt and pepper - Generously season.

Variations

Adding bacon - I love adding bacon to my egg and cress sandwich. The salty, smoky flavour of bacon complements the freshness of the cress and the creaminess of the egg perfectly. Simply cook some bacon until crispy (why not try our Air Fryer Bacon?), then add it to the sandwich along with the egg, mayo and cress. You can also add mustard for extra flavour.

Bread - While a classic egg and cress sandwich is usually made with white bread, you can experiment with different bread types to add more texture and flavour to your sandwich. Wholemeal bread, sourdough bread, or rye bread are all great options. You can also try using a bagel or a croissant for a more indulgent sandwich.

Cheese - If you love cheese, why not add some to your egg and cress sandwich? A slice of cheddar, some crumbled feta, or some creamy goat's cheese can all work well. You can also try melting the cheese on top of the egg for a gooey, delicious sandwich. Just be careful not to overpower the delicate flavour of the cress.

Have fun experimenting with different ingredients and flavours to create your own perfect sandwich.

How to Make Egg and Cress Sandwiches - Step by Step

Prep: Bring a saucepan of water to the boil.

Four eggs and some oil in a pan of water.
  1. Step 1: Add some oil to the pan. Carefully lower the eggs into the pan with a slotted spoon one at a time. Cook for 6 minutes.
Boiled eggs in a bowl of iced water.
  1. Step 2: Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and adding ice cubes. Once the 6 minutes is up, use a slotted spoon to transfer the eggs to the ice bath immediately. This will stop the cooking process. Leave the eggs in the water for 2 minutes.
Two shot collage of boiled eggs in a bowl then all mashed up.
  1. Step 3: Peel the eggs and put into a bowl (a). Mash with a fork (b).
Two shot collage of mayonnaise, cress and salt and pepper added, then all mixed together.
  1. Step 4: Add the mayonnaise, cress, salt and pepper (a). Mix well (b).
Two shot collage of egg mixture spread over two slices of bread, then with bread on top.
  1. Step 5: Divide the egg mixture between two slices of bread (a) and top with the remaining bread (b).

Serving Suggestions

We think these egg and cress sandwiches are the perfect addition to an afternoon tea. They are light, refreshing, and perfect for pairing with a hot cup of tea. To make it extra special, I like to cut the sandwich into small, dainty triangles and serve it on a tiered cake stand alongside other tea time treats like our Lemonade Scones and cucumber sandwiches.

The egg and cress sandwich is also an excellent choice for a picnic. It's easy to transport and doesn't require any special preparation. I like to pack my sandwiches in airtight containers to keep them fresh and prevent any spills. To make the picnic extra special, I like to add some fresh fruit, a bag of crisps, and some homemade lemonade to the basket.

We usually have these for lunch at home though. It's filling enough to keep you going all afternoon, but not too heavy that it will weigh you down. I like to serve my sandwich with a side salad or some vegetable crisps for a bit of crunch. If I'm feeling particularly hungry, I might even add a small bowl of soup or some Air Fryer Chips to it.

Overall, the egg and cress sandwich is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different settings. Whether you're having a fancy tea party, a casual picnic, or a quick lunch break, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot.

Two sandwiches with an egg and cress filling.

Extra Tips

  • Once the eggs are done, I immediately place them in cold water to cool them down before peeling them. This helps the shell come off more easily and prevents the egg from overcooking.
  • When mashing the eggs, I like to leave some small chunks for texture, but you can mash them to your desired consistency.
  • Some chopped chives or spring onions are a nice addition to this sandwich.
  • A little pinch of smoked paprika adds a lovely flavour to this too.
  • Use a sharp knife when cutting the sandwich, to ensure that the filling doesn't all come oozing out.
Egg sandwiches on a board with some watercress and some crisps.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to store and egg and cress sandwich

These are best eaten straight away for maximum freshness. However, you can make them for a picnic - just make sure they are wrapped up tightly and keep them in a cool-bag if possible.

Can I make this in advance?

You can make the egg, cress and mayo mixture the day before and then store it in an air tight container in the fridge. Just assemble the sandwich right before serving.

More Egg Recipes

  • Two dippy eggs with soldiers on a wooden serving board.
    Dippy Eggs with Soldiers
  • Cottage cheese egg salad in a round grey bowl.
    Cottage Cheese Egg Salad
  • Smashed eggs on toast on a blue plate with a fork.
    Smashed Eggs on Toast
  • Microwave Poached Eggs on a blue plate.
    Microwave Poached Eggs

If you’ve tried this egg and cress sandwich recipe, let us know how you got on in the comments below.
Tag us in your creations on Instagram @hungryhealthyhappy - Use the hashtag #hungryhealthyhappy too.

Recipe

A row of egg and cress sandwiches on a wooden board.

Egg and Cress Sandwich

By: Dannii Martin
An Egg and Cress Sandwich is an underrated classic. This simple yet satisfying sandwich is made with boiled eggs, fresh cress, and mayonnaise.
An illustration of a v-shaped plant.
Vegetarian
5 from 12 votes
Pin Print Save recipe Saved!
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: British
Prep: 4 minutes mins
Cook: 6 minutes mins
Total: 10 minutes mins
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 489kcal
Allergens:
An illustration of a cracked egg.
Eggs
An illustration of two ears of wheat.
Gluten
An illustration of a mustard bottle.
Mustard

Ingredients

  • 4 slices Bread
  • 4 Eggs
  • 2 tablespoon Mayonnaise
  • 1 pinch Sea salt
  • 1 pinch Ground black pepper
  • 50 g (1 cups) Cress

Instructions

  • Bring a saucepan of water to the boil.
  • Add some oil to the pan. Carefully lower 4 Eggs into the pan with a slotted spoon one at a time. Cook for 6 minutes.
  • Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and adding ice cubes. Once the 6 minutes is up, use a slotted spoon to transfer the eggs to the ice bath immediately. This will stop the cooking process. Leave the eggs in the water for 2 minutes.
  • Peel the eggs and put into a bowl. Mash with a fork.
  • Add 2 tablespoon Mayonnaise, 50 g Cress, 1 pinch Sea salt and 1 pinch Ground black pepper. Mix well.
  • Divide the egg mixture between two of the 4 slices Bread and top with the remaining bread.

Recipe Tips

  • Once the eggs are done, I immediately place them in cold water to cool them down before peeling them. This helps the shell come off more easily and prevents the egg from overcooking.
  • When mashing the eggs, I like to leave some small chunks for texture, but you can mash them to your desired consistency.
  • Some chopped chives or spring onions are a nice addition to this sandwich.
  • A little pinch of smoked paprika adds a lovely flavour to this too.
  • Use a sharp knife when cutting the sandwich, to ensure that the filling doesn't all come oozing out.

Nutritional Information

Serving: 1portion | Calories: 489kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 333mg | Sodium: 499mg | Potassium: 204mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 486IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 215mg | Iron: 29mg

The nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.

As all appliances vary, cooking times are a guide. Please note that by changing the serving size, the cooking time may also need to be altered.

You'll love these too...

  • Three teriyaki chicken lettuce wraps on a wooden board.
    Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps
  • A sesame seed topped cottage cheese bagel on a wooden surface.
    Cottage Cheese Bagels (Protein Bagel)
  • Two breakfast sandwiches stacked on top of each other.
    Meal Prep Breakfast Sandwiches
  • Lettuce wrap sandwich being held up in two hands.
    Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap Sandwich

Comments

  1. Martin Ford says

    March 19, 2024 at 4:53 pm

    Yes, I agree with all the comments. It really is a great food. I cut it into three without crusts and used it as one of my sandwiches on a so-called high tea with scones et cetera but there is sandwich is my favourite by far I tried it with your mayonnaise, then I tried it with home-made mayonnaise and it was fabulous with the real McCoy! I’m thinking of flavouring mayo but I don’t want to overpower the remaining contents so I’m having to think about it carefully. Well done happy to have another one for my high tea that would be super thank you again.

    Reply
  2. Whitney says

    June 19, 2023 at 4:28 pm

    5 stars
    Yesss I eat eggs daily so this will be something new to try and love how simple it is!

    Reply
  3. Kathleen says

    June 19, 2023 at 3:54 pm

    5 stars
    Cress is a fantastic addition to the eggs in this sandwich. Looking forward to sharing this recipe with my family.

    Reply
  4. TAYLER ROSS says

    June 19, 2023 at 3:28 pm

    5 stars
    I made this sandwich for lunch yesterday and OMG! So delicious- I want it for lunch every day this week!

    Reply
  5. Biana says

    June 19, 2023 at 2:22 pm

    5 stars
    Watercress is so delicious in this sandwich! Great idea for an easy lunch.

    Reply
  6. Elisa says

    June 14, 2023 at 8:57 pm

    5 stars
    Love this Egg and Cress Sandwich recipe. Love the boil egg. Is easy and delicious. Definitely will make it soon. Thanks for sharing :)

    Reply
  7. Janie says

    June 14, 2023 at 8:06 pm

    5 stars
    What an easy way to make egg salad. I love the use of the cress. Give the eggs a whole new flavor!

    Reply
  8. Elizabeth says

    June 14, 2023 at 7:58 pm

    5 stars
    Such a simple recipe and perfect to bring to the next ladies' lunch I attend. I'd love to try adding the bacon!

    Reply
  9. Kushigalu says

    June 14, 2023 at 6:14 pm

    5 stars
    Simple and healthy sandwich recipe. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  10. Shadi Hasanzadenemati says

    June 14, 2023 at 6:06 pm

    5 stars
    I have everything I need for this dish, can’t wait to make it this weekend! My family is going to love this!

    Reply
5 from 12 votes (3 ratings without comment)

Made this recipe? Let me know! Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Dannii with a sunset behind her.

Welcome

My name is Dannii. Here you will find easy family recipes with a healthy twist.

Established in 2011, Hungry Healthy Happy has become one of the UK's most popular food blogs, with two successful recipe books published.

About me...

Salad Recipes

  • Roasted Vegetable Winter Salad in a white dish surrounded by crumbled feta.
    Roasted Vegetable Winter Salad
  • A plate of kale, watermelon and feta salad surrounded by watermelon slices.
    Kale, Watermelon and Feta Salad
  • A large bowl of chickpea tuna salad with a serving spoon in it.
    Chickpea Tuna Salad
  • Chopped Blue Cheese Salad in a large white bowl.
    Chopped Blue Cheese Salad
  • A bowl of watercress salad with a wooden fork and spoon in it.
    Watercress Salad
  • Little Gem Salad in a round white bowl.
    Little Gem Salad

Recipe Books

The Hungry Healthy Happy book cover.
The healthy slow cooker book cover.
the front cover of The Picky Plate eBook.

Popular Recipes

  • Leftover chicken pasta on a black plate.
    Leftover Chicken Pasta
  • Mediterranean Rice Salad in a large round serving dish.
    Mediterranean Rice Salad
  • Fourteen healthy flapjacks on a sheet of parchment paper.
    Healthy Flapjacks
  • A tortilla chip being dipped into some nacho cheese sauce.
    2 Minute Nacho Cheese Sauce
  • Sticky Ginger Beef in a bowl with rice and broccoli.
    10 Minute Sticky Ginger Beef Mince
  • Baked Egg Tortilla in a round baking dish.
    Baked Egg Tortilla (Tortilla Quiche)

Footer

Help & Information

  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility Policy
  • Advertising
  • Blog

About us

  • About us
  • Newsletter Sign Up!
  • Press enquiries
  • FAQ

Follow us


Featured in

A selection of publications that Hungry Healthy Happy has been featured in

As an Amazon Associate we earn certain commissions from qualifying purchases. By using our site, you agree that we can collect and use your data. Our privacy statement has more details.

Copyright © 2011-2024 Hungry Healthy Happy • All Rights Reserved

  • 34

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.