Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Recipe
This delightful pasta salad recipe combines the comforting flavors of deviled eggs with the refreshing texture of pasta, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or need a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends while keeping preparation simple. Packed with protein-rich eggs and creamy dressing, this deviled egg pasta salad promises to be a new family favorite!
Growing up, deviled eggs were a staple at family gatherings, always the first to disappear from the table. Inspired by those warm memories, I decided to transform the classic appetizer into a more substantial dish by adding pasta. From backyard picnics to festive holidays, this salad has become the perfect bridge between nostalgia and innovation in our family culinary traditions. Every bite brings back fond memories while creating new ones with a modern twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out due to its unique combination of flavors and textures, offering the classic taste of deviled eggs in the form of a hearty pasta salad. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and suits almost any meal setting. Even better, it’s a make-ahead dish that tastes even more delicious after the flavors meld overnight, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules.
Ingredients Notes
The key ingredients for this recipe include hard-boiled eggs, your choice of pasta, mayonnaise, mustard, and a pinch of paprika for that classic deviled egg flavor. For the pasta, rotini or bowtie work well due to their ability to hold onto the creamy dressing. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter version. Tips for preparing these ingredients include boiling the eggs a day ahead to save time and experimenting with flavored mustards for added zest.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Step 2
While the pasta is cooking, peel the hard-boiled eggs and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Set aside a few slices for garnishing if desired.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, a dash of paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 4
Add the cooked pasta and chopped eggs to the dressing. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated, being careful not to break the eggs too much.
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Step 5
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with reserved egg slices and a sprinkle of paprika before serving.
Storage Options
Store your leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you anticipate storing it for a longer period, consider preparing only the pasta and dressing mixture and adding the eggs just before serving, as the eggs may become slightly rubbery over time. To reheat, it’s best served cold or at room temperature, straight from the fridge.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, you can add a variety of colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. If you’re looking for additional protein, consider adding diced cooked chicken or canned tuna. For a spicy kick, mix in a spoonful of hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
This deviled egg pasta salad is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it a standout at BBQs and picnics. It can also be served as a light main course with a side of crusty bread or as a hearty appetizer for family gatherings. Best enjoyed outdoors on a sunny day, this salad brings a refreshing, creamy contrast to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this pasta salad in advance? Absolutely! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it the night before your event and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve as they sit, making this an excellent option for meal prep.
How can I make this recipe lighter? If you’re looking to reduce the calorie content, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing. Additionally, using whole wheat pasta adds a nutritional boost while maintaining the dish’s hearty texture.
What is the best way to boil eggs for this recipe? To ensure perfectly boiled eggs, place them in a pot of cold water, bring the pot to a boil, then turn off the heat and cover. Let the eggs stand for about 10-12 minutes before transferring them to an ice bath. This method ensures tender, easily peelable eggs every time.
With this delightful pasta salad, you’re ready to impress guests at your next gathering. Its combination of taste, simplicity, and nostalgia makes this recipe a keeper in any kitchen. Enjoy creating flavorful memories with every bite!
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Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni cooked and drained
- 6 large eggs hard-boiled, peeled, and chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup dill pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Add chopped eggs to the macaroni, and gently fold in the mayonnaise mixture until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, sprinkle with chopped chives and additional paprika if desired.
Notes
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