Devilled Eggs with Paprika and Chives

Why This Works for Intermittent Fasting

Devilled eggs deliver a high ratio of protein and fat in a small, satisfying portion. Each serving (two egg halves) provides around 6g of protein and 9g of fat with virtually zero carbohydrates — making them ideal for any time-restricted eating protocol. The fat content promotes satiety and supports stable blood sugar, helping you stay comfortable until your next fast begins without constantly reaching for more food.

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons full-fat mayonnaise (avocado-oil based if possible — avoid seed oil varieties)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon full-fat sour cream or cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, plus extra for garnish
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover with cold water by at least 2cm. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce to a gentle simmer and cook for exactly 12 minutes for firm but not chalky yolks.
3. Transfer the eggs immediately to a bowl of ice water and leave for 5 minutes to cool completely. This stops the cooking and makes peeling much easier.
4. Peel the eggs carefully under cold running water and slice in half lengthwise.
5. Scoop the yolks out with a teaspoon and place them in a mixing bowl.
6. Mash the yolks with a fork until no lumps remain — or use a small food processor for a smoother texture.
7. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sour cream or cream cheese (if using). Mix well until the filling is smooth and creamy. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
8. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves. Use a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle for a more polished presentation, or simply use a teaspoon.
9. Dust generously with smoked paprika and scatter fresh chives over the top before serving.
10. Serve immediately or refrigerate, loosely covered, for up to 24 hours.

Nutrition Per Serving (2 egg halves)

Fasting Compatibility

Devilled eggs work well with any time-restricted eating protocol — 16:8, 18:6, or OMAD. As a snack, they are best eaten in the middle of your eating window rather than at the very end, to allow comfortable digestion before your next fasting period begins. The near-zero carbohydrate content means they do not trigger a significant insulin response, keeping you in a stable metabolic state throughout your eating window.

Best protocols: 16:8, 18:6, 20:4, OMAD — suitable for all time-restricted eating approaches.

Related Recipes

• Smoked salmon and avocado on endive leaves
• Cucumber rounds with smoked salmon and cream cheese
• Hard-boiled eggs with sea salt and paprika

This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making dietary changes, especially if you have an existing health condition.