Russian Salad

Festive Salad with Vegetables and Homemade Mayonnaise: A Classic Delicacy Adapted

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Today, I invite you to explore together the recipe for a delicious salad that has managed to win hearts and tables over time. This salad with vegetables and homemade mayonnaise, often known as 'Salad a la Russe', is a savory combination of fresh and pickled ingredients that brings a touch of nostalgia and joy to any occasion, whether it's a festive meal or a family dinner.

A Touch of History

Over the years, this salad has undergone many variations, with each housewife having her own secrets and favorite ingredients. Its origins are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, and adaptations have led to the creation of versions that vary from one table to another. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or as an appetizer, this salad is a true feast of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes
- 200 g carrots
- 400 g pickled cucumbers
- 400 g pickled bell peppers
- 400 g canned peas
- 6 tablespoons homemade mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Details

- Potatoes: Choose 'boiling' type potatoes with a firmer texture to avoid the salad becoming too watery.
- Carrots: They add a note of sweetness and vibrant color to the salad.
- Pickled cucumbers and bell peppers: These ingredients bring a pleasant contrast through acidity, balancing the salty taste of the mayonnaise.
- Peas: They are an excellent source of fiber and protein, adding a crunchy texture.
- Homemade mayonnaise: Recommended for an authentic taste and perfect creaminess. You can use your favorite recipe or simply make it by combining eggs, oil, and vinegar.

Preparation Steps

1. Boiling the Ingredients:
- Start by washing the potatoes well. Boil them with their skin in a large pot with water and a pinch of salt.
- In another pot, add the peeled and lengthwise cut carrots. Boil them until they become slightly soft but do not let them fall apart.

2. Preparing the Pickles:
- Rinse the pickled cucumbers and bell peppers with cold water to reduce the saltiness. Chop them finely and let them drain well in a sieve.

3. Finalizing the Ingredients:
- After the carrots are boiled, drain them, rinse with cold water, and cut them into small cubes.
- When the potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly, then peel and grate them on a large grater.

4. Mixing the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, peas (well drained), and grated potatoes.
- Add the homemade mayonnaise and mix gently so that all ingredients combine evenly. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper.

5. Serving:
- The salad can be served immediately or left to chill for a few hours in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to blend.
- Reserve 1-2 tablespoons of mayonnaise and a few vegetables for decoration on top before serving.

Practical Tips

- Cooling the Potatoes: To speed up the cooling process of the potatoes after boiling, you can rinse them under cold running water. This will stop the cooking process and help maintain a pleasant texture.
- Personalizing the Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like olives or bell peppers for extra flavor. You can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Serving: This salad pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or as a side dish for roasts. You can also accompany it with a refreshing drink, such as a grapefruit cocktail or iced tea with lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use store-bought mayonnaise?
- Of course! While homemade mayonnaise offers a more authentic taste, a store-bought version can be just as delicious, especially when short on time.

- How can I store the salad?
- Keep the salad in the refrigerator in an airtight container, where it can last up to 3 days.

- Is the salad healthy?
- This salad is a good source of vitamins and minerals due to the vegetables, and homemade mayonnaise can be adapted to include healthier ingredients.

Delicious Variations

- Fish Salad: Add canned tuna or salmon for an extra protein boost.
- Vegetarian Salad: Replace peas with boiled chickpeas for a different texture and new flavor.
- Quinoa Salad: Add cooked quinoa to make the salad more substantial and nutritious.

Conclusion

This festive salad with vegetables and homemade mayonnaise is more than just a recipe; it is a way to bring loved ones together, create memories, and savor every bite. I invite you to try it and bring a touch of creativity to your kitchen. You may discover the perfect recipe that becomes part of your family's traditions!