Creamy Egg & Pasta Summer Salad (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 6 hardboiled eggs
02 - 8 ounces ditalini, small penne, or elbow macaroni
03 - 3/4 cup mayonnaise
04 - 1 1/2 tablespoons dijon mustard
05 - 1 teaspoon white vinegar, or fresh lemon juice
06 - 1 clove garlic, finely minced or crushed to paste
07 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, adjust to taste
08 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
10 - 2 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
11 - 2 tablespoons green onions
12 - 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (OPTIONAL)

# Instructions:

01 - Cook the pasta according to the directions on the package, adding a generous tablespoon or so of kosher salt to the water as it cooks. Drain in a colander and rinse until the pasta is cool.
02 - While the pasta is cooking, peel the hardboiled eggs and separate the yolks from the whites. Chop the egg whites and set aside.
03 - Crush the egg yolks into a fine powder or use a wooden spoon to press them through a fine metal strainer into a large mixing bowl. Add the mayonnaise, dijon mustard, white vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the bowl with the egg yolks. Whisk to combine until smooth.
04 - Add the cooled pasta to the dressing in the bowl and stir to coat the pasta thoroughly. Add the chopped red onion, green onions, and chopped egg whites. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. If using bacon, fold it in at this step.
05 - Garnish with additional green onions and a sprinkle of paprika, if desired. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

# Notes:

01 - For perfectly smooth and creamy deviled egg dressing, place the yolks in a metal strainer and use a wooden spoon to quickly press them through. They will be almost powdery, creating a smooth base for the dressing.
02 - This pasta salad can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
03 - The pasta salad is versatile - you can add other ingredients like chopped celery, bell peppers, or pickles for additional texture and flavor.
04 - For a lighter version, you can substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.