Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a delightful and creamy dish that combines the classic flavors of deviled eggs with tender pasta. This salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal. It’s a great way to enjoy the taste of deviled eggs in a more substantial and satisfying form. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make Deviled Egg Pasta Salad step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of your preferred pasta shape (e.g., elbow macaroni, rotini, or farfalle)
- 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Paprika for garnish (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish or chopped pickles
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to cool it quickly. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Hard-Boiled Eggs
- Boil Eggs:
- Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Transfer the eggs to an ice water bath to cool, then peel and chop.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- Combine Dressing Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
- Season:
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Mix Pasta and Dressing:
- Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add Vegetables and Relish:
- Stir in the finely chopped red onion, celery, and sweet pickle relish or chopped pickles.
- Add Eggs:
- Gently fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs. Mix carefully to avoid breaking up the eggs too much.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish:
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with paprika for garnish if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Deviled Egg Pasta Salad chilled. Enjoy this creamy and flavorful dish with your family and friends!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Pasta: Use your preferred pasta shape. Small shapes like elbow macaroni, rotini, or farfalle work well for this salad.
- Eggs: Use freshly boiled eggs for the best texture and flavor. Ensure they are fully cooled before chopping.
- Dressing: Adjust the amount of mayonnaise, mustard, and vinegar to your taste. Add more mayonnaise for a creamier texture or more mustard for extra tanginess.
Variations
Bacon Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
- Add Bacon:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
Spicy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
Dill Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
- Add Dill:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped dill or 1 teaspoon of dried dill for a fresh herb flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Sandwiches:
- Serve alongside sandwiches or wraps for a complete meal.
- With Grilled Meats:
- Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or burgers for a hearty side dish.
Beverages
- With Iced Tea:
- Enjoy with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink.
- With Sparkling Water:
- Serve with sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make this salad up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of mayonnaise? A: Yes, you can use light or avocado mayonnaise for a different flavor or reduced calories.
Q: Can I add other vegetables? A: Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
Q: Can I make this salad dairy-free? A: Ensure the mayonnaise is dairy-free if required. The other ingredients are typically dairy-free.
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender pasta, savory dressing, and classic deviled egg flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Deviled Egg Pasta Salad with your family and friends!