This creamy and tangy pasta salad combines the beloved flavors of deviled eggs with the satisfying texture of pasta. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that offers a delightful twist on classic pasta salad. With the tanginess of Dijon mustard and pickle relish paired with the richness of mayonnaise, every bite is bursting with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad brings together two classic comfort foods—deviled eggs and pasta salad—into one creamy, flavorful dish. The combination of hard-boiled eggs, pasta, and a tangy mustard-based dressing makes for a light yet satisfying side dish. This easy-to-make salad is ideal for gatherings, as it can be made ahead and served cold, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, the garnish of green onions and paprika adds an extra pop of flavor and color, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Ingredients
- 8 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini recommended)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
- Paprika for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped hard-boiled eggs and cooled pasta.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, sweet pickle relish, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and egg mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
Variations
- Vegan Version: Substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayo and use a dairy-free pasta for a vegan-friendly version.
- Add-ins: You can boost the flavor by adding chopped celery for extra crunch, for a smoky twist.
- Spicy Version: If you like heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce or a chopped jalapeño to the dressing to give this pasta salad a spicy kick.
- Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to elevate the flavor profile and add some freshness to the salad.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store this pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day!
- Reheating: This is a cold salad, so it’s best served chilled. If you want to bring it to a picnic, store it in a cooler to keep it cold and fresh until serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni and rotini work well, feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or farfalle.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to a day in advance and refrigerate to allow the flavors to develop.
3. Can I make this recipe without sweet pickle relish?
If you don’t have sweet pickle relish, you can use dill relish or chopped pickles for a tangy alternative. You can also omit it entirely if you prefer a simpler flavor.
4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce to the dressing to give the salad a little heat.
5. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, you can add vegetables like chopped celery, red onions, or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.
6. Can I freeze this pasta salad?
It is not recommended to freeze this pasta salad as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator.
7. Can I substitute the Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can be used as a substitute, though it will change the flavor slightly.
8. Can I add protein to this pasta salad?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, to turn this salad into a more filling meal.
9. How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the dressing to soak into the pasta and eggs.
10. How do I prevent my pasta from getting soggy in the salad?
Make sure to rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps the pasta maintain its texture and prevents it from absorbing too much dressing.
Conclusion
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any gathering, combining the creamy, tangy flavors of deviled eggs with the heartiness of pasta. It’s easy to make, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and is best served chilled. Whether it’s a summer picnic or a holiday feast, this salad will be a hit with guests and family alike.
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Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
This Deviled Egg Pasta Salad brings together the classic flavors of deviled eggs with the creamy texture of pasta. With a tangy mustard-based dressing, hard-boiled eggs, and sweet pickle relish, this dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. Serve it chilled for a refreshing, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing salad!
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini recommended)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
- Paprika for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped hard-boiled eggs and cooled pasta.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, sweet pickle relish, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and egg mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
- Vegan Version: Substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayo and use a dairy-free pasta.
- Add-ins: Add chopped celery for extra crunch for a smoky twist.
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
