Creamy, tangy pasta salad inspired by deviled eggs—perfect for picnics and potlucks!
Ingredients
-
6 hard-boiled eggs, yolks separated from whites
-
8 oz small pasta (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small penne)
-
¾ cup mayonnaise (full-fat preferred)
-
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
-
1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
-
1 clove garlic, minced or mashed
-
½ tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
-
½ tsp smoked paprika (+ extra for garnish)
-
⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
-
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
-
¼ cup green onions, sliced (+ more for garnish)
-
4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
-
Boil in salted water until tender.
-
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
2. Prep the eggs
-
Peel and separate yolks from whites.
-
Press yolks through a mesh strainer into a large bowl for an extra-smooth texture.
-
Finely chop egg whites and set aside.
3. Make the dressing
-
To the yolks, whisk in mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar/lemon juice, garlic, salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne until creamy.
4. Assemble
-
Add cooled pasta to the dressing and toss until coated.
-
Gently fold in chopped egg whites, red onion, green onion, and bacon (if using).
5. Serve
-
Garnish with extra green onions and a sprinkle of paprika.
-
Serve immediately or chill for 30–60 minutes to let flavors meld.
Tips & Variations
-
Add chopped pickles, fresh dill, or chives for extra zing.
-
Omit bacon for a meat-free version.
-
Toss in diced celery, bell peppers, or peas for crunch.
-
Use vegan mayo and skip eggs for a plant-based alternative.
If you’d like, I can also give you a WW-friendly lightened-up version of this recipe so it’s lower in points without losing flavor. Would you like me to do that next?