Why do we associate eggs with Easter? In ancient times, eggs were a sign of new life and rebirth. Christians eventually came to adopt the egg as a symbol of the Easter story when Jesus miraculously rose from the tomb.

Makes sense. Some experts have called eggs “a miracle of nature.” And lest I go down a rabbit trail of why Easter bunnies deliver eggs, let’s turn to some facts about this unique food.

Eggs are a complete protein in that they contain every single amino acid (the bricks that build protein) needed to make all types of protein in our bodies. That includes skin, hair, organs, blood and our immune system.

Eggs are perhaps the most easily digested protein on the planet. In fact, they are the gold standard by which other proteins are compared. One egg contains as much protein as an ounce of meat.

In addition, eggs are one of the top natural sources of choline. We need to remember this essential nutrient because it supports how our brains function. That includes our thinking, memory and moods.

Are brown eggs more nutritious than white eggs? Nope. The color of an egg’s shell corresponds to the color of the hen’s earlobe. The nutrition is the same.

Should we only buy eggs that state they have “No Added Hormones”? Nope. NO egg-laying hens or chicks are ever given hormones, according to USDA regulations.

But down to Easter business. What’s the best way to boil eggs? Here’s what the American Egg Board—a research and nutrition site supported by American egg farmers—suggests: Gently place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Add cold water to cover eggs by 1 inch. Heat over high heat until it starts to boil. Then remove from heat and cover the pan. Let eggs stand in the boiled water about 12 minutes for large eggs and 15 minutes for extra large eggs. Drain off water and cool under cold running water or in a bowl of ice water. Refrigerate.

This method helps avoid the greenish ring around hard boiled eggs caused by cooking too long or at too high a temperature.

Another interesting fact. If you live above 10,000 feet, it’s almost impossible to hard-boil eggs.

Are really fresh eggs easier to peel? No. Experts say you’ll have an easier time peeling eggs that have been in the fridge for a few days.

Always refrigerate hard boiled eggs before and immediately after the Easter egg hunt. While fresh eggs can be refrigerated up to 3 weeks, the Food and Drug Administration says to eat hard-boiled eggs within a week after cooking.

And finally, science has proven that we can enjoy eggs without worrying that they contribute to heart disease. Recent studies show they are incredibly healthy, rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals. Just take it easy on the chocolate variety.

©2025 MediaNews Group, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.