What is Ensaladilla Rusa?
Despite the name meaning “Russian Salad,” Ensaladilla Rusa is one of Spain’s most beloved tapas. It’s a chilled salad made with boiled potatoes, vegetables, mayonnaise, and often tuna or boiled eggs. Found in tapas bars all over Spain, it’s creamy, rich, and perfect for warm days.
🛒 Ingredients for Traditional Ensaladilla Rusa
- 3–4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 100g green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can of tuna in olive oil, drained
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (plus slices for garnish)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: diced pickles, roasted red peppers, or olives for garnish
👩🍳 How to Make Ensaladilla Rusa
Step 1: Boil the Vegetables
Boil the diced potatoes and carrots in salted water until soft but not mushy. Add peas during the last 2–3 minutes. Drain and cool.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a bowl, mix the vegetables with tuna and chopped eggs. Gently fold in the mayonnaise until well combined.
Step 3: Chill and Garnish
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve cold, garnished with egg slices, olives, or roasted red peppers.
🔁 Serving Suggestions
- As a tapas dish with crusty bread
- In individual cups for parties or picnics
- As a starter or side dish for barbecues or seafood meals
✅ Why It’s a Spanish Favorite
- Affordable and easy to prepare
- Customizable with different ingredients
- A perfect cold dish for summer
- Loved by kids and adults alike
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 15g
- Protein: 7g
💬 Fun Fact
Although the original Russian salad was invented in Moscow, Spain made it their own by adapting it with local ingredients like tuna and olive oil mayo.
📌 Final Thoughts
If you want to bring a taste of Spain to your table, Ensaladilla Rusa is the way to go. Creamy, refreshing, and full of flavor, this dish will be a hit at any gathering.
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