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Spanish Potato Salad

Spanish Potato Salad - Easy Meal Recipe

Let me take you on a culinary journey into the world of Ensaladilla Rusa. Often seen at family celebrations and festive occasions in Spain, this creamy potato salad is much more than just a side dish.
It tells stories of tradition, culture, and the joy of sharing meals. Ever since I discovered how to make this dish, I’ve been hooked. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and so versatile! 
Whether you are having a quiet dinner at home or hosting a summer get-together, trust me, this potato salad will steal the show.
Before diving into the specifics, let’s talk about what makes this dish special. As we explore the flavor profiles, ingredients, and preparation steps, you’ll find my personal tips and experiences woven throughout. So, grab a fork and let’s dig in!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 471

Ingredients
  

  • 5 oz premium canned tuna in olive oil
  • 1/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise homemade preferred
  • 1/2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 12 oz waxy or everyday potatoes not floury
  • 4 oz carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup green peas fresh or frozen
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped approximately ⅓ cup
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
  1. Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly. Peel them if preferred, but the skin can add an extra layer of texture and nutrients.
    Next, cut them into even cubes, about an inch in size. Place them in a pot with cold, salted water. This method ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
  1. Put the pot on medium heat and bring the water to a gentle boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they feel tender but not mushy when pierced with a fork. You don’t want mashed potatoes here!
    Once done, drain them and let them cool in a bowl.
Step 3: Cook the Carrots and Peas
  1. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the carrots and boil for about 5 minutes. After that, toss in the green peas.
    Cook everything together until the carrots are tender-crisp, approximately 3 more minutes. Drain and cool.
Step 4: Combine Your Ingredients
  1. Once your potatoes and vegetables are cool, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Flake the tuna into the bowl, ensuring no big chunks remain.
    Add finely chopped red onion, parsley, and the rest of the ingredients: mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and black pepper.
Step 5: Toss Gently
  1. Use a spatula to mix everything gently. Be careful! You don’t want to mash the potatoes. The goal is to combine the flavors without losing the integrity of the ingredients.
Step 6: Chill the Salad
  1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This rest period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
  1. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad one last gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with some extra parsley for that visual appeal.

Notes

  • 1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Waxy potatoes hold their shape better than floury varieties. They are key for a perfect texture.
  • 2. Use Fresh Veggies: If you can, opt for seasonal produce. Fresh vegetables ramp up the flavor.
  • 3. Make It Ahead of Time: This salad benefits from sitting in the fridge. Prepare it a few hours or even a day ahead.
  • 4. Homemade Mayonnaise: Don’t shy away from making your mayo! It’s simple and adds a whole new dimension.
  • 5. Experiment with Ingredients: If you have leftover veggies or different proteins like ham or chicken, add them in! This salad is quite forgiving.