Ruska Salata

Ruska Salata Recipe - Bulgarian Potato and Ham Salad with Peas and Carrots

Region / culture: Bulgaria | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ruska Salata, also known as Russian Salad, is a popular dish in many Eastern European countries. This creamy and flavorful salad is made with a combination of boiled vegetables, eggs, pickles, and mayonnaise. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or a light meal on its own.

History

Ruska Salata has its origins in Russia, where it was traditionally made with potatoes, carrots, peas, and mayonnaise. Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged in different countries, with some adding ingredients like pickles, corn, and ham. Despite its name, Ruska Salata is not actually a traditional Russian dish, but rather a popular salad enjoyed in many Eastern European countries.

Ingredients

2 large potatoes (cut into 0.5-inch squares)
1 large carrot (chopped)
0.5 cup of peas
0.5 cup of tin corn kernels
3 tbsp of finely chopped pickles
2 hard-boiled eggs (chopped into squares)
200 to 500 g of mayonnaise
salt and lemon juice (to taste)
optional: 0.5 cup of chopped parsley
optional: 200-400 g of chopped ham
optional: garnish with green olives

How to prepare

Boil the potatoes, carrots, eggs, and peas.
Once cooled, combine all the ingredients and allow them to sit for an hour.

Variations

Add chopped ham or chicken for extra protein.
Substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Add chopped apples or raisins for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chop the vegetables into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture in the salad.

- Boil the vegetables until they are just tender, being careful not to overcook them as they can become mushy.

- Allow the salad to sit for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Ruska Salata can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light meal on its own. It pairs well with crusty bread or crackers.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the vegetables until just tender.

- Chop the ingredients into small, uniform pieces for a consistent texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use sweet potatoes or parsnips instead of regular potatoes.

- Substitute the peas with green beans or edamame.

- Use dill pickles instead of sweet pickles for a tangier flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Ruska Salata can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to allow the salad to come to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with green olives or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve in a decorative bowl or on a platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Ruska Salata pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light meal on its own. It can also be served alongside other salads or as part of a buffet spread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow the salad to come to room temperature before serving. Do not freeze as the mayonnaise may separate.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 300-400 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Potatoes: 37g per 100g

- Carrots: 9.6g per 100g

- Peas: 14g per 100g

- Corn: 19g per 100g

- Pickles: 3.5g per 100g

Fats

- Mayonnaise: 75g per 100g

- Eggs: 10g per egg

- Ham: 3.5g per 100g

Proteins

- Eggs: 13g per egg

- Ham: 18g per 100g

Vitamins and minerals

Potatoes: Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Potassium

- Carrots: Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Potassium

- Peas: Vitamin K, Folate, Iron

- Corn: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Phosphorus

Alergens

Eggs

- Mayonnaise

Summary

Ruska Salata is a rich source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Ruska Salata is a delicious and versatile salad that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, it is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this classic Eastern European dish as a side dish or a light meal for a taste of tradition.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a talented cook who always seemed to have a new and exciting recipe to share with me. As we sipped on cold iced tea, she pulled out a worn and stained recipe card from her collection and handed it to me with a smile.

"Here, Lila," she said, "this is a recipe for Ruska Salata. It's a traditional Russian salad that my grandmother used to make. I think you'll love it."

I eagerly took the recipe card and scanned over the ingredients and instructions. The combination of potatoes, carrots, peas, pickles, and mayonnaise sounded both comforting and refreshing. I could already imagine the creamy texture and tangy flavor of the salad.

Maria and I spent the afternoon preparing the salad together, chopping vegetables, boiling potatoes, and mixing the ingredients with care. As the salad came together, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma filled the kitchen. We couldn't wait to dig in and taste our creation.

When we finally sat down to eat, I took a bite of the Ruska Salata and was instantly transported to a world of flavors and memories. The creamy mayonnaise coated the vegetables, while the pickles added a delightful crunch and tanginess. It was a perfect balance of textures and tastes that left me wanting more.

From that day on, Ruska Salata became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I prepared the salad, I would think back to that sunny afternoon in Maria's kitchen and the joy of discovering a new and delicious recipe.

Over the years, I would tweak the recipe here and there, adding a pinch of paprika for a hint of spice or a squeeze of lemon for a burst of freshness. I would also share the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of Ruska Salata to the next generation.

One summer, my own granddaughter, Emily, came to visit me. She had always shown an interest in cooking and was eager to learn some of my recipes. I knew that Ruska Salata would be the perfect dish to teach her.

As we stood side by side in the kitchen, I handed Emily the recipe card that had been passed down from Maria's grandmother. Together, we went through each step, from boiling the potatoes to mixing the dressing. Emily had a natural talent for cooking, and she picked up the techniques quickly.

When we finally sat down to eat our Ruska Salata, I watched with pride as Emily took her first bite. Her eyes lit up with delight, and she exclaimed, "It's delicious, Grandma! I can't wait to make this for my friends."

I smiled and patted her hand. "I'm so glad you enjoyed it, Emily. Cooking is all about sharing and creating memories with the ones you love. This recipe has been a part of my life for so long, and now it's a part of yours too."

As the years passed, Emily continued to make Ruska Salata for her friends and family, adding her own twist to the recipe. She would call me from time to time, asking for advice or sharing her latest culinary creations. It warmed my heart to see her passion for cooking and the joy that she found in preparing meals for others.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of herbs and spices, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipes and traditions that have shaped my life. Ruska Salata will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the friendships forged over shared meals and the joy of passing on a beloved recipe to the next generation.

And as I take a bite of the creamy and tangy salad, I am filled with a sense of contentment and gratitude for the simple pleasures of cooking and sharing good food with those you love. Cooking is not just about following a recipe; it's about creating memories and connections that last a lifetime. The Ruska Salata may be just a salad, but to me, it is a symbol of love, tradition, and the joy of cooking.