Deviled eggs are a staple at many social gatherings, from picnics to holiday parties. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and can be dressed up or down with various toppings and seasonings. However, when it comes to serving deviled eggs, many people are left wondering: what is a serving size of deviled eggs?
Understanding Serving Sizes
A serving size is a standardized unit of measurement that represents the amount of food that is considered a single serving. Serving sizes are usually determined by the food’s nutritional content and are used to help people make informed decisions about their diet. In the United States, the serving sizes are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are based on the Reference Amounts Customarily Consumed (RACC) per eating occasion.
How are Serving Sizes Determined?
Serving sizes are determined by the FDA based on the RACC, which is the amount of food that people typically eat in one sitting. The RACC is determined by conducting surveys and studies to determine how much of a particular food people typically consume. The serving size is then calculated based on the RACC and is usually expressed in terms of weight or volume.
Factors that Influence Serving Sizes
Several factors can influence serving sizes, including:
- Food type: Different types of food have different serving sizes. For example, a serving size of meat is typically 3 ounces, while a serving size of fruit is typically 1/2 cup.
- Age and sex: Serving sizes can vary based on age and sex. For example, children and teenagers may have smaller serving sizes than adults.
- Activity level: People who are more active may require larger serving sizes to meet their energy needs.
What is a Serving Size of Deviled Eggs?
So, what is a serving size of deviled eggs? According to the FDA, a serving size of deviled eggs is 2 eggs. This is based on the RACC, which is 2 eggs per eating occasion.
Why are Deviled Eggs Considered a Single Serving?
Deviled eggs are considered a single serving because they are typically eaten as a snack or appetizer. They are also relatively small and are usually served in pairs. The FDA considers 2 eggs to be a single serving because it is a common amount that people typically eat in one sitting.
How Many Calories are in a Serving of Deviled Eggs?
A serving of deviled eggs (2 eggs) typically contains around 140-160 calories. This can vary depending on the ingredients used and the size of the eggs.
| Ingredient | Calories per serving |
|---|---|
| 2 large eggs | 140 |
| 1 tablespoon mayonnaise | 90 |
| 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard | 5 |
| Salt and pepper to taste | negligible |
| Total | 235 |
How to Make Deviled Eggs
Making deviled eggs is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks to a bowl.
- Mash the yolks with a fork until they’re well broken up.
- Stir in the mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth.
- Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves.
- Sprinkle with paprika or chives, if desired.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for Serving Deviled Eggs
Here are a few tips for serving deviled eggs:
- Use a variety of toppings: Consider adding some chopped herbs, grated cheese, or diced bacon to your deviled eggs for added flavor and texture.
- Make them ahead of time: Deviled eggs can be made up to a day in advance, making them a great option for parties and gatherings.
- Use a deviled egg tray: A deviled egg tray can help keep your eggs organized and make them easier to serve.
Common Deviled Egg Variations
There are many ways to vary deviled eggs, from adding different seasonings to using different types of eggs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Bacon and chive deviled eggs: Add some crumbled bacon and chopped chives to your deviled eggs for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Smoked salmon deviled eggs: Add some smoked salmon and chopped fresh dill to your deviled eggs for a delicious and elegant twist.
- Spicy deviled eggs: Add some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to your deviled eggs for an extra kick of heat.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a serving size of deviled eggs is 2 eggs, according to the FDA. Deviled eggs are a delicious and versatile snack that can be made in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for a classic recipe or something new and exciting, deviled eggs are a great option for any occasion.
What is a standard serving size of deviled eggs?
A standard serving size of deviled eggs can vary depending on the source and the occasion. Generally, a serving size of deviled eggs is considered to be one-half of a large egg or one whole small egg. This serving size is often used as a guideline for appetizers, snacks, or side dishes.
However, it’s worth noting that serving sizes can vary greatly depending on the context. For example, if deviled eggs are being served as part of a buffet or a large gathering, the serving size may be smaller. On the other hand, if deviled eggs are being served as a main course or a substantial snack, the serving size may be larger.
How many deviled eggs should I plan per person for a party?
When planning for a party, it’s generally recommended to plan for 2-3 deviled eggs per person as an appetizer or snack. This assumes that the deviled eggs will be served alongside other foods and that guests will be grazing throughout the event. However, if deviled eggs are the main attraction or if you’re planning a more substantial snack, you may want to plan for 4-6 deviled eggs per person.
It’s also worth considering the size of the eggs and the filling. If you’re using large eggs or a generous amount of filling, you may want to plan for fewer deviled eggs per person. On the other hand, if you’re using small eggs or a lighter filling, you may want to plan for more.
Can I adjust the serving size of deviled eggs based on the occasion?
Yes, the serving size of deviled eggs can be adjusted based on the occasion. For example, if you’re serving deviled eggs at a formal event or a holiday gathering, you may want to plan for a smaller serving size to allow guests to try a variety of foods. On the other hand, if you’re serving deviled eggs at a casual gathering or a picnic, you may want to plan for a larger serving size.
It’s also worth considering the time of day and the other foods being served. For example, if you’re serving deviled eggs as part of a brunch or breakfast, you may want to plan for a larger serving size. If you’re serving deviled eggs as part of a late-night snack or dessert, you may want to plan for a smaller serving size.
How do I determine the serving size of deviled eggs for a specific recipe?
To determine the serving size of deviled eggs for a specific recipe, you’ll need to consider the number of eggs called for in the recipe and the amount of filling. Generally, a recipe will yield a certain number of deviled eggs, and you can divide that number by the number of guests to determine the serving size.
It’s also worth considering the size of the eggs and the filling. If a recipe calls for large eggs or a generous amount of filling, you may want to plan for fewer deviled eggs per person. On the other hand, if a recipe calls for small eggs or a lighter filling, you may want to plan for more.
Can I serve deviled eggs as a main course?
While deviled eggs are typically served as an appetizer or snack, they can be served as a main course in certain situations. For example, if you’re serving deviled eggs as part of a brunch or breakfast, you may want to plan for a larger serving size to make them more substantial.
To serve deviled eggs as a main course, you’ll want to plan for 4-6 deviled eggs per person, depending on the size of the eggs and the filling. You may also want to consider adding other ingredients, such as meats, cheeses, or vegetables, to make the dish more substantial.
How do I store leftover deviled eggs?
Leftover deviled eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To store deviled eggs, place them in a single layer in a covered container and refrigerate at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. You can also store deviled eggs in an airtight container or zip-top bag, but be sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing.
When storing deviled eggs, it’s worth noting that the filling can become watery or separate over time. To minimize this, you can try adding a little bit of mayonnaise or sour cream to the filling before refrigerating. You can also try storing the deviled eggs in a container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent moisture from accumulating.
Can I freeze deviled eggs?
While it’s technically possible to freeze deviled eggs, it’s not always the best idea. The filling can become watery or separate when thawed, and the texture of the eggs can become unpleasant. However, if you do need to freeze deviled eggs, it’s best to freeze them without the filling.
To freeze deviled eggs, hard-boil the eggs and cool them completely. Then, peel the eggs and place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. You can store the eggs in the freezer for up to 6-9 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the eggs and fill them with your desired filling.