Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deviled Egg Flavor: Enjoy the beloved taste of deviled eggs in a new, shareable form.
- Creamy and Satisfying: The luscious dressing provides a comforting and indulgent texture.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to all home cooks.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 6 hardboiled eggs
- 8 ounces ditalini, small penne, or elbow macaroni
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced or crushed to a paste
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup crispy fried onions
(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 pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water until the pasta is cool.
-
Prepare the Eggs:
- Peel the hardboiled eggs.
- Separate the yolks from the whites.
- Chop the egg whites and set aside.
-
Make the Dressing:
- Place the egg yolks in a large mixing bowl. Using a fork or pressing through a fine metal strainer, crumble the yolks into fine pieces.
- Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the bowl.
- Whisk until smooth and well combined.
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Fold in the chopped egg whites, red onion, green onions, and crispy fried onions. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give it a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 8 servings
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Herb Addition: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for added freshness and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to increase or decrease the heat according to your preference.
- Pasta Choices: Experiment with different pasta shapes such as rotini, shells, or bowtie to change the texture and appearance.
- Add Vegetables: Mix in diced celery, bell peppers, or pickles for extra crunch and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If it has been refrigerated, allow it to sit out for a few minutes before serving. Reheating is not recommended as it may affect the texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the salad a day in advance allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
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.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or a combination of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Can I add other proteins to this salad?
Yes, diced chicken, turkey, or tuna can be added for additional protein.
How long can this pasta salad sit out at room temperature?
For food safety, it’s best not to leave the salad out for more than 2 hours.
What type of mustard works best in this recipe?
Dijon mustard provides a nice tangy flavor, but yellow mustard can be used for a milder taste.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced?
Yes, finely mince or crush a fresh garlic clove to use in the dressing.
How can I make this salad healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of mayonnaise, and add more vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties.
Can I add cheese to this pasta salad?
Yes, crumbled feta or shredded cheddar can be mixed in for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a delicious fusion of two classic favorites—deviled eggs and pasta salad—resulting in a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, looking for a potluck contribution, or simply craving a hearty side dish, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to be a hit. With its rich dressing, tender pasta, and delightful crunch from onions, this pasta salad brings comfort and flavor in every bite. Enjoy!
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad combines the creamy, tangy flavors of deviled eggs with tender pasta for a hearty and delicious side dish. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks, this easy-to-make salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 6 hardboiled eggs
- 8 ounces ditalini, small penne, or elbow macaroni
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced or crushed to a paste
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup crispy fried onions
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
- Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.
-
Prepare the Eggs:
- Peel the hardboiled eggs.
- Separate the yolks from the whites.
- Chop the egg whites and set aside.
-
Make the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the egg yolks with a fork or press them through a fine mesh strainer.
- Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Whisk until smooth and well combined.
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and stir gently to coat.
- Fold in the chopped egg whites, red onion, green onions, and crispy fried onions. Mix well.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives.
- To lighten it up, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise.
- For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce.
- Best served cold; avoid reheating.
