This Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad combines creamy egg goodness with tender pasta, making a tasty dish perfect for picnics or potlucks. It’s packed with flavor from mayo and mustard!
Honestly, this salad brings back memories of family barbecues. It’s so simple to prepare, just mix and chill. I love adding a sprinkle of paprika on top for that little extra flair!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using small pasta like ditalini or macaroni for the best texture. If you don’t have either, feel free to use shells or any short pasta you have on hand. Just make sure it’s small enough to pick up with a fork!
Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are the star here! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pre-cooked hard-boiled eggs. However, if you’re vegan, you can substitute the eggs with diced avocado for a creamy texture or use a vegan egg alternative.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo adds creaminess, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. You could also use vegan mayo if you are avoiding eggs and dairy.
Mustard: Yellow mustard is standard, but for a different kick, you can use Dijon mustard or honey mustard for a touch of sweetness.
Onions: Red onion gives a nice crunch and color, but you can swap with green onions for a milder taste or even scallions if that’s what you have.
How Do I Make Sure My Eggs Are Perfectly Hard-Boiled?
Hard-boiling eggs can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- Place eggs in a pot, cover them with cold water, about an inch above the eggs.
- Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat, then turn off the heat and cover the pot immediately.
- Let the eggs sit, covered, for about 12 minutes.
- After, transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water for 5-10 minutes to cool, which makes peeling easier.
By cooling them quickly, you’ll avoid that green ring around the yolk, keeping your eggs looking beautiful for the pasta salad!
Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces small pasta (such as ditalini or macaroni)
- 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, sliced (green and white parts)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional hour to chill in the fridge. Total time is roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it easy to prepare in advance for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain it and rinse with cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Hard Boil the Eggs:
Place the eggs in a pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then turn off the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Let the eggs sit for about 12 minutes. After that, drain the hot water and transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool. Once cooled, peel and chop the eggs into small pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the chopped eggs, red onion, green onions, and cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is well coated with the dressing.
5. Season and Chill:
Take a moment to taste your pasta salad. Adjust the seasoning as needed if you want a bit more salt or pepper. Once you’re satisfied, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour. This lets all the flavors blend beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir and sprinkle a little extra smoked paprika on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and satisfying deviled egg pasta salad at your next picnic or gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While ditalini or macaroni are great choices, you can also use small shells, rotini, or any other short pasta you have on hand. Just make sure it’s small enough for easy eating!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving as the dressing may thicken while chilling.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered in the fridge to maintain freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for creaminess, or use a vegan mayo if you prefer a plant-based alternative. Both will work well in this recipe!
