This Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a fun twist on the classic deviled eggs. It combines pasta, hard-boiled eggs, creamy mayo, mustard, and a hint of paprika for that extra kick!
Perfect for picnics or potlucks, this salad is quick to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser. I love making it ahead of time; it tastes even better after chilling out in the fridge! 🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Small pasta types like ditalini or elbow macaroni work best because they mix well with the dressing. If you’re gluten-free, try chickpea or rice pasta as a substitute; they add a nice texture too.
Hard-boiled eggs: The star of the dish! If you’re short on time, consider using pre-cooked or store-bought hard-boiled eggs. You can swap them with silken tofu for a vegan version, though the taste and texture will be different.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo provides creaminess, but for a lighter version, use Greek yogurt. This not only cuts calories but adds a wonderful tang! If you’re vegan, opt for dairy-free mayo.
Mustard: Yellow mustard is traditional, but feel free to experiment with Dijon mustard for a sharper flavor or honey mustard for a touch of sweetness.
Onions: Red onion adds a nice crunch and color, but if you’re sensitive to raw onion, substitute with fresh chives or shallots for a milder flavor.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Pasta for a Salad?
Cooking pasta correctly is crucial to avoid mushy salad. Follow these simple steps:
- Boil a pot of salted water before adding the pasta. It helps with flavor!
- Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps cool the pasta quickly.
This technique keeps your pasta from getting gummy in the salad. Enjoy your fresh and tasty dish!
Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 6 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onion (scallions)
For Garnish:
- Paprika, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for chilling in the fridge. So, plan a little bit of time to let those flavors blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the small pasta and cook following the package directions until it’s al dente—this means it should still have a little bite to it. Once it’s cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large bowl, mix together the chopped hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely combined and creamy.
3. Combine Everything:
Add the cooled pasta, red onion, and green onion into the bowl with the egg mixture. Gently stir everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated in that delicious dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Now’s your chance to taste! If you like, add a bit more salt, pepper, or mustard until it suits your palate perfectly.
5. Garnish and Chill:
Transfer your pasta salad to a nice serving bowl and sprinkle paprika on top for that lovely color and mild kick. Cover it and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour—this helps all those great flavors meld together!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. It’s best enjoyed cold as a side dish or light meal that’s perfect for gatherings or picnics!
This creamy, savory dish is a delightful twist on traditional deviled eggs, making it a hit at any occasion. Enjoy every bite! 🌼
FAQ for Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni are ideal, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Just keep in mind that pasta shapes with grooves, like rotini, can hold more dressing!
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
This salad can be made up to a day in advance! Simply mix everything together, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. Just give it a little stir before serving, as the flavors will intensify and may settle a bit.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to add a splash of mayo or a bit of vinegar when you serve it again!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! For a vegetarian option, just omit the eggs or replace them with diced avocado or chickpeas for added creaminess. To make it vegan, substitute eggs with silken tofu blended with turmeric for color and flavor, and use a vegan mayo alternative!
