Ensaladilla Rusa (Spanish Russian Salad)

This dish is a tapa you will find in almost every bar in Spain. It's also readily available in every supermarket here. But I thought I'd have a go at making my own and here it is. Why? I just thought it would be fun, and I'm glad I did. It's my first attempt at a Spanish tapa. Ensaladilla Rusa, or as many of us know it, Russian Salad. This humble dish has a fascinating journey from the imperial tables of Moscow to becoming a common dish across Spain.

Make Your Own Spanish Tapa

Let's get on with making Ensaladilla Rusa. It's a slight departure from my usual recipes, but it's simple to make and well worth trying.

What You’ll Need

• Large cooking pot
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and peeler

And that's it — homemade Ensaladilla Rusa. Serve it well chilled as a tapa, light lunch or part of a larger tapas spread. ¡Buen provecho!

A Little History of Russian Salad: The "Olivier Salad" Story

So, where did "Russian Salad" actually come from? Its origins go back to the 1860s, to a Belgian chef called Lucien Olivier, who ran a renowned restaurant called "Hermitage" in Moscow. His original creation, known as "Olivier Salad," was much more elaborate than the version we know today. It featured luxurious ingredients like grouse, veal tongue, caviar, smoked duck, and crayfish tails, all mixed together with a secret mayonnaise recipe. It was a dish fit for Tsars and the Russian aristocracy.

As the 20th century progressed, and particularly after the Russian Revolution, the salad evolved. The expensive ingredients were replaced with readily available and affordable alternatives like potatoes, carrots, peas, and eggs, making it accessible to a wider population. The mayonnaise remained, but the rich trimmings gave way to simpler, readily available ingredients.

How Ensaladilla Rusa Conquered Spain

How did a Russian salad become so popular in Spain? The exact history is a little unclear, but there are several theories. One popular theory suggests the recipe arrived in Spain through returning Spanish Civil War exiles who had spent time in the Soviet Union. Another is that it was introduced by immigrants who fled the Russian Revolution and settled in various European countries, including Spain.

Regardless, Ensaladilla Rusa quickly became popular in Spain. Its simplicity, creamy texture, and refreshing taste made it perfect for the Spanish tapas culture. It's a dish that's incredibly versatile, perfect as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a tapa to share with friends over a glass of wine. Its affordability and easy preparation contributed to its widespread popularity across the country.