This yummy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad combines creamy pasta with chopped eggs, mayo, and a touch of mustard. It’s a colorful dish that’s perfect for picnics and family gatherings!
I love how the flavors remind me of traditional deviled eggs, but in a pasta form. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up—just mix and chill! Perfect for lazy days. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to switch it up! Bowtie, rotini, or penne pasta also work wonderfully. Just choose a pasta shape that will hold the creamy dressing well.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: These add protein and texture. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can use mashed avocado or chickpeas to mimic the creaminess instead of eggs!
Mayonnaise: I like using regular mayonnaise for a rich texture, but Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re after something lighter. You could also mix both for added creaminess.
Dijon Mustard: This brings a tangy flavor. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard can work in a pinch, but it will be less sharp. You could also try a bit of spicy mustard for an extra kick.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds brightness. If you don’t have it, white vinegar works just as well. A squeeze of lemon juice can also add a fresh touch.
How Can I Get the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
Making a creamy dressing is key to a delicious pasta salad. Start by whisking together the mayo, Dijon, vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. This ensures all flavors blend well.
- Mix the dressing in a large bowl to make space for everything as you add more ingredients.
- As you fold in the pasta and eggs, do so gently to maintain the integrity of the eggs, keeping them from turning mushy.
- Taste your dressing before adding the pasta. Adjust seasoning to match your preference, adding more vinegar for tang or paprika for smokiness.
Chilling the pasta salad is also crucial to let the flavors meld together. A little patience goes a long way!
How to Make Deviled Egg Pasta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 4 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in under an hour, you’ll have a refreshing and delicious dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. Set it aside to cool.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed and creamy. This will be the flavorful base for your pasta salad!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the diced hard-boiled eggs and chopped red onion to the dressing mixture. Carefully fold in the cooled pasta, making sure everything is well coated in the creamy dressing. Be gentle, so the eggs don’t break apart too much.
4. Season to Taste:
Give your pasta salad a taste! If you think it needs a little more flavor, sprinkle in extra salt, pepper, or paprika. Mix well to incorporate.
5. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This will help all the flavors mix together nicely.
6. Garnish and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, take the pasta salad out of the fridge. Sprinkle the top with chopped green onions and a little extra paprika for a nice touch. Serve it cold and enjoy your delightful Deviled Egg Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions and keep the pasta al dente for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, make sure the lid is sealed tightly. If it seems a bit dry after refrigerating, you can add a splash of mayonnaise or a drizzle of olive oil to rejuvenate the creaminess when serving.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayonnaise alternative. For the hard-boiled eggs, you can use tofu or chickpeas mixed with turmeric and black salt to mimic the flavor and texture. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste!
How Can I Add Extra Flavor to My Deviled Egg Pasta Salad?
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced pickles or sweet relish, chopped celery, or even some crumbled bacon for a non-vegetarian option. Adding a bit of garlic powder or fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also elevate the taste!
