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Argentine Ensalada Rusa

The Quirky Foodster Team

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20 min
Prep
12 min
Cook
4
Servings

Ingredients

  • Potatoes, peeled and diced — 500 g (1.1 lb)
  • Carrots, peeled and diced — 2
  • Peas, fresh or frozen — 150 g (1 cup)
  • Hard-boiled eggs, chopped — 2
  • Mayonnaise — 150 g (2/3 cup)
  • Mustard (optional) — 1 tbsp
  • Salt and pepper, — to taste

Method

  1. Boil potatoes and carrots together in salted water until just tender, about 10-12 minutes; add peas for the final 3 minutes. Drain and cool completely.
  2. Combine the cooled vegetables with chopped egg in a large bowl.
  3. Fold in mayonnaise and mustard, if using, until evenly coated.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, chill at least 1 hour before serving.

Introduction: Despite the name, this potato and vegetable salad bound in mayonnaise became a staple of Argentine tables through European immigrant communities in the 20th century and is now a fixture at picnics, holiday spreads and casual asados as a cooling counterpoint to grilled meat.

Cultural Background: Despite the name, this potato and vegetable salad bound in mayonnaise became a staple of Argentine tables through European immigrant communities in the 20th century and is now a fixture at picnics, holiday spreads and casual asados as a cooling counterpoint to grilled meat.

Tips: Cool the vegetables fully before adding mayonnaise to avoid it splitting. Dice vegetables uniformly so they cook evenly.

Variations: Add diced cooked ham or apple for a sweeter, heartier version popular in home cooking.

Vegetarian/Vegan: Vegetarian: Naturally vegetarian; ensure mayonnaise used is egg-based or vegetarian-certified. Vegan: Use a plant-based mayonnaise and omit the egg or replace with diced marinated tofu.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Not applicable – served cold.

Nutrition: Per serving: 240 kcal, 6 g protein, 15 g fat, 20 g carbohydrate, 3 g fibre.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this ahead for a party?

A: Yes – it’s best made a few hours ahead or the day before so the flavours meld in the fridge.