This Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad mixes creamy pasta with tasty deviled eggs, making it a fun twist on two classics. Perfect for picnics or family dinners!
I can’t resist the creamy taste and hearty texture. It’s super simple to make, and I’ve even served it as a side dish at barbecues. Everyone loves it, especially my kids!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape is great for holding onto the dressing. If you want to mix things up, feel free to use shells or rotini for a different texture.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: They add protein and creaminess. You can easily replace them with avocado or chickpeas for a vegan option, but it will change the flavor substantially.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo gives a rich taste, but you can swap it for Greek yogurt for a lighter version. If you’re avoiding dairy, try vegan mayo or a tahini dressing.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice kick. If you’re out, yellow mustard is a fine substitute, but just reduce the amount slightly since it’s stronger in flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad is Always Creamy?
The key to a creamy pasta salad is ensuring your pasta is cooled properly. Rinse it under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy. Additionally, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This really helps the flavors meld.
- Cook pasta until al dente and rinse in cold water to cool.
- Mix dressing well before topping with ingredients like eggs and onions.
- Be mindful when folding in the pasta; you want a nice coating without breaking the pasta or eggs.
Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
- 6 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad requires about 15 minutes of preparation time. After that, be sure to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors blend together. So, you’re looking at about 45 minutes total before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the cooled pasta aside.
2. Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the mixture together until it’s smooth and well-combined. This dressing is what gives the pasta salad its creamy, tangy flavor!
3. Combine the Eggs and Onions
Add the chopped hard-boiled eggs and diced red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix everything together, making sure the eggs and onions are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Mix in the Pasta
Now it’s time to fold in the cooled pasta. Carefully mix everything together, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined without breaking the pasta or eggs.
5. Serve and Garnish
Transfer your pasta salad to a serving bowl. For the finishing touch, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of paprika on top to add a pop of color and flavor.
6. Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making every bite delicious!
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful twist on a classic pasta salad, perfect for any gathering or a tasty lunch at home!
FAQ for Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or even bow-tie pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover deviled egg pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as some dressing may settle at the bottom.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, you can simply omit the eggs or replace them with diced avocado or chickpeas for added creaminess. For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a combination of mashed avocado and lemon juice. Just keep in mind that it will have a different flavor profile!
What Can I Serve with Deviled Egg Pasta Salad?
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread. You can also serve it alongside fresh vegetables or a light salad for a more balanced meal.
