Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Flavor Fusion: Merges the beloved taste of deviled eggs with the heartiness of pasta salad.
- Textural Delight: Combines creamy dressing, tender pasta, and the slight firmness of chopped eggs.
- Versatile Side Dish: Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a side for various main courses.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 6 large hard-boiled eggs
- 1½ cups mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup finely diced celery
- ½ cup finely diced red onion
- Sliced green onions and additional paprika for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Eggs: Peel the hard-boiled eggs. Halve them and separate the yolks from the whites. Chop the egg whites into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, mash the egg yolks until smooth.
- Make the Dressing: To the mashed egg yolks, add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, kosher salt, paprika, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped egg whites, diced celery, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2-4 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes
Variations
- Add-Ins: Incorporate crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, or chopped dill pickles for extra flavor and texture.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can add a refreshing note to the salad.
- Spice Level: For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dressing.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If it becomes too thick after refrigeration, stir in a small amount of mayonnaise or a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this salad?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but other small pasta shapes like rotini or shells can also be used.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the taste.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I add other ingredients to the salad?
Absolutely! Ingredients like bacon bits, shredded cheese, or chopped pickles can add extra flavor.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
For a lighter option, you can substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta until al dente and rinse it under cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process.
Can I use a different type of mustard?
Yes, yellow mustard can be used for a milder flavor, or spicy brown mustard for a more robust taste.
What if I don’t have white vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can be used as substitutes for white vinegar.
How can I make the salad more tangy?
Increasing the amount of mustard or adding a bit more vinegar can enhance the tanginess.
Is this salad suitable for outdoor events?
Yes, but ensure it stays chilled, especially in warm weather, to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage.
Conclusion
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of two classic favorites, offering a creamy, tangy, and satisfying dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for both special occasions and everyday meals.
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a creamy, tangy, and satisfying dish that blends the classic flavors of deviled eggs with the hearty texture of pasta. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or everyday meals, this easy-to-make salad features tender macaroni, hard-boiled eggs, and a rich, flavorful dressing made with mustard, paprika, and mayo.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 6 large hard-boiled eggs
- 1½ cups mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup finely diced celery
- ½ cup finely diced red onion
- Sliced green onions and additional paprika for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – Boil salted water and cook the macaroni until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Eggs – Peel and halve the hard-boiled eggs. Separate the yolks from the whites, then chop the egg whites into small pieces. Mash the yolks until smooth.
- Make the Dressing – In a bowl, mix mashed yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients – In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, chopped egg whites, diced celery, and red onion. Add the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill – Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours for the best flavor.
- Serve – Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of paprika before serving.
Notes
- To enhance tanginess, increase mustard or vinegar.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
- Best served chilled; store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: : Side Dish
- Method: Mixing & Chilling
- Cuisine: American
