For best results don’t use eggs that are really fresh. I have had so many disappointments trying to peel eggs that are too fresh. You will just have a mangled mess.  Fresh egg shells are rough and chalky, older eggs are smooth and shiny.  If an egg is too old,  it will rise to the surface when immersed in a pan of cool salted water.  If this happens, throw throw them out!  They are bad!

I usually make deviled eggs to take to parties and picnics. They are quick and easy and everyone loves them.  However, I started getting a little bored with them and tried to think of a way to be more creative. This is what I came up with.

This recipe will make twelve deviled eggs:

Boil 6 eggs for 10 minutes.  Immerse in cold water and peel. 

Using a mixture of water and food coloring, dip the peeled  eggs until desired color is achieved . Refrigerate until cold. *It won’t matter if the eggs are still warm or cold when you dye them*

For demonstration purposes, I used green food coloring.  These would be pretty as yellow, orange, lavender, or you can use your imagination.  I have made blue and red for the Fourth of July and Memorial day picnics;  red and green for  Christmas.  Most colors work very well.

Using a small sharp paring knife, make a zig- zag cut around entire length of egg connecting first to last cut. Carefully open egg and pop the yolk into a small bowl.

(sorry this picture is a little over exposed). This cut gives a basket effect and the eggs are easier to pick up too.

Fill the eggs with your favorite deviled egg filling.  Here is the recipe I normally use:

mash yolks with fork

Add 3 Tablespoons mayo

1/4 teaspoon each: dry mustard and salt

hot pepper sauce to taste 

You can add more or less mayo depending on how thick you want the filling.

Mix well until smooth

Fill eggs and sprinkle with a little paprika or chili powder.  Refrigerate.

***

Some other ingredients that you can use in different combinations:

chopped onion, relish, chopped olives, garlic, black pepper, crumbled bacon, horse radish etc…  You can also use chopped green onion or chives for a colorful topping.

So the next time the occasion calls for deviled eggs, watch their eyes light up when they see these colorful fancy ones!

Always keep eggs cold.  Transport in an ice cooler for picnics. Use a container which will allow you to have ice underneath and keep out of sun.

For more:

Crab Stuffed Mushroom
Chickenless Chicken Wings