Ruska Salata, also known as Russian Salad, is a classic dish enjoyed in Serbia and many other Eastern European countries. It’s a creamy, hearty salad made with boiled vegetables, eggs, pickles, and a generous amount of mayonnaise. This salad is commonly served at celebrations and festive gatherings, often as a starter or a side dish. The richness of the mayonnaise combined with the tanginess of pickles and the earthiness of root vegetables creates a balanced and satisfying flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium potatoes (about 300g)
• 3 medium carrots (about 150g)
• 150g peas (fresh or frozen)
• 3 hard-boiled eggs
• 150g pickles (cornichons or dill pickles)
• 150g cooked ham or chicken (optional)
• 200g mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Vegetables:

   • Peel and dice the potatoes and carrots into small cubes.
   • Boil the potatoes, carrots, and peas in separate pots of salted water until tender (about 10-15 minutes for potatoes and carrots, 5 minutes for peas).
   • Drain the vegetables and let them cool.

2. Prepare the Other Ingredients:

   • Dice the hard-boiled eggs, pickles, and ham or chicken (if using) into small cubes.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • In a large bowl, combine the cooled vegetables, eggs, pickles, and ham or chicken.
   • Add the mayonnaise and mustard (if using) to the bowl.
   • Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Chill and Serve:

   • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
   • Serve the salad chilled as a side dish or appetizer.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 100g):

• Calories: ~150-200 kcal
• Proteins: ~3-5g
• Carbs: ~12-15g
• Fiber: ~2g

Nutritional Summary: Ruska Salata is a calorie-dense dish due to the mayonnaise, but it also provides a moderate amount of protein, especially if ham or chicken is included. The salad contains a good mix of carbohydrates from the vegetables and is a source of dietary fiber. While it’s a rich dish, it’s typically enjoyed in small portions as part of a larger meal, making it a festive treat rather than an everyday indulgence.