Step into the vibrant world of Argentine cuisine, where bold flavors and culinary creativity converge to create a gastronomic tapestry that is as diverse as the nation itself. Among the many delicious offerings, one dish stands out as a beloved classic – Ensalada Rusa. Originating from Russia but embraced wholeheartedly in Argentina, this salad has undergone a delightful transformation, adopting a uniquely Argentine twist.

Join us on a culinary journey as we delve into the essence of Argentina's Ensalada Rusa, uncovering the rich history and exploring the harmonious blend of ingredients that make this salad a cherished part of Argentine gatherings. From its humble origins to the present-day adaptations, we'll unravel the layers of this iconic dish, inviting you to savor the flavors that make it an indispensable part of the Argentine culinary landscape. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible charm of Argentina's Ensalada Rusa!

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, diced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cooked and diced ham (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced pickles (dill or sweet, based on preference)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Boil Potatoes and Carrots:

1- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.

2- Add diced potatoes and carrots and cook until they are tender but not mushy. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

3- Drain the vegetables and let them cool to room temperature.

Cook Green Peas:

1- If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes. If using frozen peas, thaw them.

2- Drain and set aside.

Prepare Dressing:

1- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Assemble the Salad:

1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, carrots, green peas, diced hard-boiled eggs, ham (if using), and pickles.

2- Gently fold in the prepared dressing, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.

Chill and Serve:

1- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

2- Before serving, garnish the salad with chopped parsley.

Serve and Enjoy:

1- Serve the Ensalada Rusa as a side dish or a refreshing appetizer, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors.

This Argentine Ensalada Rusa is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or served as a refreshing standalone dish. ¡Buen provecho!

Nutritional Values

The nutritional values for the ingredients in Argentina's Ensalada Rusa can vary based on specific brands and quantities used. However, here are approximate values for some key ingredients:

Nutritional Values per 100g:

Potatoes (boiled and diced):

• Calories: 87
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits:

• Rich in carbohydrates for energy.
• Good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Provides essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and potassium.

Carrots (boiled and diced):

• Calories: 41
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Fiber: 2.8g

benefits:

• High in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A that supports eye health.
• Good source of antioxidants, helping to combat free radicals in the body.
• Contains fiber for digestive health.

Green Peas (boiled or thawed):

• Calories: 81
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 0.4g
• Fiber: 5g

benefits:

• Excellent source of plant-based protein.
• High in dietary fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.
• Contains vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like iron and zinc.

Hard-Boiled Eggs:

• Calories: 155
• Carbohydrates: 1.1g
• Protein: 13g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• High-quality protein source, essential for muscle repair and maintenance.
• Rich in vitamins, including B12, essential for nerve function.
• Provides healthy fats and choline, important for brain health.

Mayonnaise (regular, commercial):

• Calories: 680
• Carbohydrates: 1.3g
• Protein: 0.9g
• Fat: 74g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Adds flavor and creaminess to the salad.
• Contains fats, which aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• Moderation is key due to its calorie content.

Dijon Mustard:

• Calories: 66
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits:

• Adds a tangy flavor without extra calories.
• Contains mustard seeds, which are rich in selenium and magnesium.
• May have potential anti-inflammatory properties.

White Wine Vinegar:

• Calories: 5
• Carbohydrates: 0.1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Adds acidity to the dressing without added calories.
• May have potential benefits for blood sugar control.
• Can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

Ham (diced, cooked):

• Calories: 145
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Adds protein and flavor to the salad.
• Contains essential amino acids for muscle health.
• Moderation is advised due to the potential sodium content.

Pickles (dill or sweet):

• Calories: 12
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 0.3g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits:

• Low in calories but high in flavor.
• Contains probiotics if prepared through fermentation, promoting gut health.
• Adds a tangy and crunchy element to the salad.

Parsley:

• Calories: 36
• Carbohydrates: 7.3g
• Protein: 2.2g
• Fat: 0.8g
• Fiber: 3.3g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
• Contains antioxidants that may help fight inflammation.
• Adds freshness and a burst of flavor to the dish.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. Additionally, the nutritional content of the overall salad will depend on the quantities of each ingredient used in the recipe.