I discovered Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad during my first attempt at hosting Easter lunch, and it’s been my go-to ever since. Who knew combining two classic favorites would become my signature dish?
Contents
Deviled egg macaroni salad recipe
Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad is a delightful fusion of two classic American dishes: deviled eggs and macaroni salad. This dish combines the creamy, tangy flavors of deviled eggs with the comforting texture of pasta. This creates a unique interplay of flavors and textures that sets it apart from traditional macaroni salads or standard deviled eggs.
This deviled egg macaroni pasta salad offers a satisfying taste and serves as an attractive addition to any table setting due to its vibrant colors and creamy texture. The dish is perfect for those who enjoy the flavors of deviled eggs in a new form. It is a popular choice for potlucks and summer events like picnics, barbecues, and pool parties.
Here’s how to make creamy deviled egg macaroni salad:
Deviled egg macaroni salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz macaroni cooked and cooled
- 6 large eggs hard-boiled and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup celery finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
- smoked bacon small chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, sweet pickle relish, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add in the chopped eggs, celery, and red onion and gently fold to combine.
- Stir in the cooled macaroni, making sure everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and some fresh parsley or chives.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. Enjoy your creamy, deviled-egg-inspired macaroni salad!
Notes
Nutrition
Pairing suggestions
1. Main Course Pairings
- Grilled Meats
- Burgers: The salad’s creamy texture balances savory grilled burgers.
- Chicken: Grilled or barbecued chicken, marinated or seasoned, pairs excellently with the salad.
- Barbecue Favorites
- Ribs: Smoky, tender ribs offer a hearty contrast to the light, creamy salad.
- Pulled Pork: Sweet and tangy pulled pork enhances the salad’s creamy flavors.
2. Complementary Side Dishes
- Light Sides
- Garden salad (vinaigrette-based)
- Grilled vegetables (minimal oil)
- Fresh fruit medley
- Cucumber-tomato salad
- Coleslaw: Crisp and tangy coleslaw adds texture and complements the salad’s creaminess.
- Potato Salad adds a complementary texture and flavor profile.
- Hearty Additions
- Baked beans (not too sweet)
- Roasted potatoes (herbs only)
- Grilled corn (minimal butter)
- Garlic bread (light version)
3. Beverage Pairings
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages
- Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened, iced tea refreshes and balances the dish’s richness.
- Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade cuts through the creamy flavors, adding brightness.
- Cocktails
- Pimm’s Cup: This fruity cocktail complements the fresh summer flavors in the deviled egg macaroni salad.
- Gin and Tonic: Herbal gin notes enhance the flavors in the creamy macaroni salad.
- Alcoholic Beverages
- White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio brings crisp acidity, ideal with creamy dishes.
- Beer: Light lagers or wheat beers refresh the palate, perfect for summer cookouts.
Variations
1. Regional Versions
- Spicy Southwest
- Add diced jalapeños (2-3 tablespoons, seeded)
- Incorporate chipotle powder (½ teaspoon)
- Mix in diced roasted red peppers
- Use spicy brown mustard instead of yellow
- Herbal Mediterranean
- Fresh dill (2 tablespoons, chopped)
- Chopped fresh parsley (¼ cup)
- Minced fresh chives (2 tablespoons)
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon)
2. Dressing Variations
- Mustard Types: Yellow or spicy mustard to bring different flavor profiles.
- Mayonnaise Alternatives: For a lighter twist, blend Greek yogurt with light mayo – keeping the creaminess but lowering calories.
- Vinegar Choices: White wine or distilled vinegar adds a tangy variation.
3. Pasta Variations
- Small shells, rotini, farfalle, or orecchiette for unique textures.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs without losing flavor
4. Ingredient Additions
- Vegetables: Add crunch with diced bell peppers, celery, green onions, or black olives. Try celery or dill pickles for tang, or sweet pickle relish for a hint of sweetness.
- Proteins: Enhance richness with crumbled bacon, chopped shrimp, flaked tuna, or diced ham for a satisfying, savory addition.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh chives or parsley add brightness, while smoked paprika brings a smoky edge, and cayenne adds a hint of heat.
- Nuts and Seeds: Toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, pine nuts, or pepitas
