Rassols - Russian salad with salmon and tuna

Rassols - Russian Salad with Salmon and Tuna

Every year, on November 18th, Latvia celebrates its independence, a moment of pride and joy for its residents. On this special day, I invite you to discover the recipe for Rassols, a modern and delicious version of the famous Russian Olivier salad, featuring smoked salmon and tuna. This salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a perfect option to impress guests at festive gatherings. Let's embark on a culinary adventure together!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

- 7 medium potatoes
- 3 carrots
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 3 hard-boiled eggs
- 1 small can of fine peas (140 g)
- 3 medium pickled cucumbers
- 1 small can of natural tuna (140 g)
- 100 g of smoked salmon
- 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon of mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley leaves for decoration (optional)

About Rassols:

Rassols is an iconic salad that has evolved over time, taking on various forms and ingredient combinations. This recipe for Russian salad with salmon and tuna adds a touch of innovation to culinary tradition, making it perfect for special occasions or family meals. The combination of fresh and flavorful ingredients provides a rich taste and pleasant texture, and its colorful appearance makes each serving a true work of art.

Preparation:

1. Boiling the vegetables: Start by washing the potatoes and carrots well. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Boil over medium heat until tender (about 20-25 minutes). Check with a knife: if it goes in easily, the vegetables are done. Drain the water and let them cool completely.

2. Preparing the ingredients: Once the potatoes and carrots have cooled, peel them and cut them into small cubes. Choose a fresh red bell pepper, finely chop it, and add it to the bowl. Cut the hard-boiled eggs into small cubes (keep one for decoration). Cut the smoked salmon and pickled cucumbers into similar-sized cubes, and drain the peas and tuna well.

3. Mixing the salad: In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients: potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, eggs, peas, cucumbers, tuna, and salmon. Gently mix to avoid mashing the vegetables, but well enough to combine them.

4. Adding the dressing: Add the mayonnaise and mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix again, being careful not to ruin the texture of the ingredients.

5. Shaping the salad: Transfer the mixture to a flat plate, shaping it into a dome. This is a simple yet effective trick to give the salad an elegant appearance.

6. Decorating: Use the remaining mayonnaise to decorate the salad. You can add slices of hard-boiled egg on top, along with some cubes of red bell pepper and fresh parsley leaves for a pop of color.

Serving and suggestions:

Rassols is a salad that fits perfectly at festive meals or as an appetizer for an elegant dinner. You can serve it alongside fresh bread or crackers for a pleasant contrast of textures. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail will pair perfectly with this salad.

Possible variations:

If you want to explore different flavors, you can replace the tuna with fresh cooked salmon or add green olives for a Mediterranean touch. Also, for a vegetarian version, you can omit the fish and add avocado for creaminess.

Nutritional benefits:

This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables and contains healthy proteins from fish and eggs. Smoked salmon is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health, while the vegetables provide a generous amount of fiber, aiding digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen vegetables? - Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

2. How can I store the salad? - Rassols can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. However, it is recommended not to add the mayonnaise until serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

3. What type of mayonnaise should I use? - You can use homemade mayonnaise for a fresher taste or a lighter version to reduce calories.

This recipe for Rassols with salmon and tuna not only pays homage to culinary tradition but also offers an opportunity to experiment in the kitchen. Feel free to add your own twist, explore new combinations, and share this delicacy with your loved ones! Enjoy every bite and savor the authentic taste of this reinterpreted Russian salad!