Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Deviled egg pasta salad is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. This recipe combines the creamy goodness of deviled eggs with the satisfying bite of macaroni noodles. Perfect for cookouts, picnics, or family gatherings, this dish is not only delicious but also an excellent way to utilize leftover hard-boiled eggs. With its light mayo dressing and fresh ingredients, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of creamy yolks and tangy mustard delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as a main dish, side salad, or appetizer—perfect for any occasion!
• Light on Calories: At just 195 calories per serving, you can indulge without guilt.
• Easy to Customize: Add your favorite veggies or herbs to make this recipe your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best deviled egg pasta salad, gather your tools and prep your workspace. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling macaroni pasta efficiently.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta without losing any pieces.
• Mixing bowl: Keeps your ingredients organized while making it easy to combine everything.
• Fork: Ideal for mashing egg yolks smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 8 oz. macaroni pasta (about 2 1/2 cups uncooked, 1/2 pound)
• 6 hard boiled eggs
• 1/2 cup plain greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1 small red onion, diced (see notes)
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika, more as desired
• sea salt, to taste

How to Make Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Cook macaroni in boiling water for 8–10 minutes or according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside in a large bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Eggs

Cut the hard-boiled eggs in half and remove the yolks. Place the yolks in a small bowl and chop the whites. Add the chopped whites to the pasta bowl.

Step 3: Mix Egg Yolk Mixture

Mash the egg yolks with a fork until smooth. Stir in Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and dijon mustard until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add diced red onion and chopped celery into the pasta bowl. Pour in the egg yolk mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Top with fresh chives, paprika, and sea salt to taste. You can enjoy this salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour for enhanced flavors. Adjust mayo or yogurt if necessary when serving leftovers.

This deviled egg pasta salad not only brings unique flavors but also ensures a delightful addition to any meal!

How to Serve Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Deviled egg pasta salad is a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or enjoying a casual family dinner, here are some great serving suggestions.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad can be served on its own as a light meal. Pair it with some crusty bread for a satisfying lunch.

With Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak. The creamy texture of the pasta salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh twist, spoon the deviled egg pasta salad into lettuce leaves. This makes for a low-carb option that is both refreshing and fun to eat.

As Part of a Picnic Platter

• Include this salad in your picnic spread with other finger foods like sandwiches and fruit. It’s an easy-to-transport dish that everyone will enjoy.

Topped with Extra Chives

• Add more chopped chives on top just before serving. This enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color to your dish.

With Crackers or Chips

• Serve it up with crunchy crackers or tortilla chips for a delightful texture contrast. It’s perfect as an appetizer at parties.

How to Perfect Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

To make the best deviled egg pasta salad, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like celery and red onion add crunch and brightness. Choose ripe, flavorful produce for the best results.

• Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to modify the mayo and yogurt ratio to achieve your desired creaminess. Some may prefer more tang from yogurt, while others might like it richer with mayo.

• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the pasta salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour helps meld the flavors together, making each bite even tastier.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to play around with spices like garlic powder or dill. These can elevate your pasta salad to another level of deliciousness.

• Add Protein: For extra nutrition and substance, consider adding diced ham or cooked chicken. This makes it more filling and satisfying.

Best Side Dishes for Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with deviled egg pasta salad can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Colorful, smoky veggies such as bell peppers and zucchini provide a healthy complement to your pasta salad.

2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and contrasts well with the creamy texture of the pasta dish.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings sweetness and balances out savory flavors beautifully.

4. Baked Beans: Sweet and hearty baked beans make for a classic pairing that offers warmth and comfort.

5. Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips serve as an easy side; they pair well for those who enjoy contrasting textures.

6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is another summertime favorite that works great next to this hearty salad.

7. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers offer bright flavors that harmonize nicely with deviled egg pasta salad.

8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide additional heartiness alongside your dish, making for an enjoyable meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making deviled egg pasta salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your pasta salad properly can lead to a bland dish. Always taste and adjust salt and spices before serving.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked macaroni can become mushy and ruin the texture of your salad. Cook it al dente for the best bite.
• Not chilling before serving: Serving this salad immediately can miss out on enhancing its flavors. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour for optimal taste.
• Using low-quality ingredients: The quality of your mayonnaise and yogurt makes a difference in flavor. Choose high-quality brands for the best result.
• Ignoring ingredient ratios: Too much mayo or yogurt can overpower the dish. Stick to the recipe ratios for a balanced flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store deviled egg pasta salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture of the ingredients.
• If you must freeze, do so without adding chives or other fresh toppings.

Reheating Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about deviled egg pasta salad.

What is Deviled Egg Pasta Salad?

Deviled egg pasta salad is a creamy, flavorful dish made with macaroni noodles, hard-boiled eggs, and a delicious dressing that includes mayonnaise and yogurt.

Can I make Deviled Egg Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator for up to three days before serving.

What can I add to my Deviled Egg Pasta Salad?

You can customize this recipe by adding diced pickles, bell peppers, or even bacon for extra flavor.

Is Deviled Egg Pasta Salad vegetarian?

Yes! This dish is vegetarian-friendly since it primarily consists of eggs and pasta along with fresh vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Deviled egg pasta salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will surely impress at any gathering. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or seasonal veggies. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting dish that everyone will love!