Introduction
Insalata Russa, also known as Russian Salad, is a beloved Italian dish that has a rich history and remains a staple at many celebrations, particularly during the holiday season. Despite its name, it was actually created in Europe and later adopted into Italian cuisine. This creamy salad, made with a combination of vegetables, mayonnaise, and sometimes other ingredients like peas and pickles, is a versatile dish that can be served as a side, appetizer, or light main course. Its comforting texture and delicate flavors make it an enduring favorite for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients:
300 g of potatoes (about 2 medium-sized)
200 g of carrots (about 2 medium-sized)
100 g of peas (frozen or fresh)
100 g of pickles (dill or gherkins)
3-4 tablespoons of mayonnaise
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables
Peel the potatoes and carrots, then cut them into small cubes, roughly 1 cm in size. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then first add the potatoes. After about 5 minutes, add the carrots and cook both vegetables until they are tender, but not too soft (about 10-12 minutes total). In a separate pot, cook the peas until they are tender, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Drain all the vegetables and let them cool down.
Combine the Ingredients
Once the vegetables have cooled, place them in a large mixing bowl. Finely chop the pickles and add them to the bowl along with the peas. Mix everything gently to combine.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, and lemon juice (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour this dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss everything carefully until all the ingredients are well-coated.
Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the Insalata Russa for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give it a gentle stir. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: Insalata Russa is best served chilled and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a side dish to accompany meats, fish, or even pasta. It’s a perfect addition to festive menus or as a light snack on warm days.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days, but note that the texture of the vegetables might soften over time. If the salad becomes too dry, simply stir in a little more mayonnaise before serving.
Variations:
