Deviled Egg Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of deviled eggs with the comforting texture of pasta, creating a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side for any meal. This salad features a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and egg yolks, mixed with perfectly cooked pasta, crunchy onions, and optional crispy bacon. It’s a delightful twist on traditional pasta salad that’s sure to become a favorite. Easy to make and full of flavor, this dish will impress your family and friends at any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 6 hardboiled eggs: Adds protein and the classic deviled egg flavor.
- ¾ cup mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base for the dressing.
- 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds tanginess and depth of flavor.
- 8 ounces ditalini, small penne, or elbow macaroni: The pasta base that holds the dressing and other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar or fresh lemon juice: Adds acidity to balance the richness.
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced or crushed to paste: Enhances the flavor with a subtle garlicky kick.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste): Enhances the overall flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor and color.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped: Adds a mild onion flavor and crunch.
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- ¼ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional): Adds a savory, crispy element (optional but recommended).
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Add a generous tablespoon of kosher salt to the boiling water to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water until it’s cool. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta down for the salad.
- Prepare the Eggs:
- While the pasta is cooking, peel the hardboiled eggs. Separate the yolks from the whites.
- Chop the egg whites and set them aside.
- Crush the egg yolks into a fine powder or press them through a fine metal strainer into a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Dressing:
- In the bowl with the egg yolks, add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar or lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Whisk everything together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing and gently stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Fold in the chopped egg whites, red onion, green onions, and cooked bacon (if using), ensuring that all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the pasta salad with additional green onions and a dash of paprika for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately as a satisfying side dish or refrigerate it until ready to enjoy. Either way, this Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is bound to be a hit!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 21g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 11g
Serving
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is best served chilled, making it a perfect dish for warm weather gatherings. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. For added visual appeal, garnish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of smoked paprika before serving. This salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated, making it a convenient option for potlucks or picnics.
Notes
- Pasta: Choose small pasta shapes like ditalini, small penne, or elbow macaroni for the best texture and distribution of the dressing.
- Eggs: For perfectly hardboiled eggs, place eggs in a pot of cold water, bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let sit covered for 10-12 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath to cool before peeling.
- Bacon: Adding bacon is optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor. Make sure to cook it until crispy and drain well.
- Adjusting Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed, especially the salt, to suit your preferences.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and improve over time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of mustard? Yes, you can use yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard if you prefer a different flavor profile.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise? You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a combination of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, Deviled Egg Pasta Salad can be made a day ahead. The flavors will meld together nicely, making it even more delicious.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika? You can use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked paprika. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add other ingredients? Yes, feel free to add other ingredients like celery, bell peppers, or pickles for extra crunch and flavor.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together? Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking before mixing with the dressing.
Is this salad gluten-free? To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
Can I use store-bought hardboiled eggs? Yes, you can use store-bought hardboiled eggs to save time.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best served chilled.
Can I add other herbs? Yes, fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives can be added for extra flavor.
In conclusion, Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the best elements of deviled eggs and pasta salad. With its creamy dressing, perfectly cooked pasta, and the added crunch of onions and optional bacon, it’s a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Easy to prepare and store, this salad is perfect for making ahead and enjoying at picnics, potlucks, or as a tasty side dish for family dinners. Enjoy this unique and tasty salad that is sure to become a favorite!