The Mimosa Salad, a beloved Russian classic, is a light, creamy, and beautifully layered dish made with simple ingredients like potatoes, carrots, eggs, and canned fish. It’s a staple for New Year’s celebrations, with its soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture and mild flavor. This salad is named for its bright, mimosa-like yellow topping made from grated egg yolks, which add a cheerful appearance to any holiday table. Perfect for gatherings, this salad brings a touch of nostalgia, tradition, and a taste of comfort to any occasion.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, boiled and cooled
- 1 can of canned Pacific saury in oil (or substitute with tuna or salmon if preferred)
- 3 carrots, boiled and cooled
- 5 eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
- Mayonnaise for layering (adjust amount to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Boil the Vegetables and Eggs:
Boil the potatoes, carrots, and eggs until cooked. Let them cool completely before peeling and grating. - Drain the Fish:
Open the canned fish and drain any excess oil. Use a fork to flake the fish into small pieces.
2. Layer the Salad:
- First Layer – Potatoes:
Grate the boiled potatoes into a fine layer at the bottom of a flat serving dish. Lightly spread a layer of mayonnaise over the potatoes, using just enough to moisten them without making them soggy. - Second Layer – Fish:
Spread the flaked fish over the potatoes, creating an even layer. Optionally, add a light touch of mayonnaise on top of the fish for added creaminess. - Third Layer – Carrots:
Grate the boiled carrots and add them as the next layer. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over the carrots to bind the layers together. - Fourth Layer – Egg Whites:
Separate the egg yolks from the whites. Grate the egg whites and add them as a layer over the carrots, followed by a light spread of mayonnaise. - Fifth Layer – Egg Yolks:
Grate the egg yolks on top of the salad as the final layer. This gives the salad its signature mimosa-inspired, yellow appearance.
3. Set and Serve:
- Chill the Salad:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps the layers stay intact. - Serve:
Serve the Mimosa Salad chilled as part of a festive spread. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this salad the night before?
Yes, Mimosa Salad tastes even better when prepared in advance. It allows the flavors to meld, so making it a day ahead works wonderfully.
Q2: Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute saury with canned tuna, salmon, or mackerel for a similar taste and texture.
Q3: Is there a way to make this salad lighter?
For a lighter version, try using a reduced-fat mayonnaise or a blend of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt.
Tips for Making the Best Mimosa Salad
- Chill Before Serving:
This salad is best served cold, so be sure to chill it thoroughly before enjoying. - Layer Carefully:
To get beautiful layers, gently pat each layer down without pressing too hard, allowing each ingredient to keep its structure. - Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley for an added touch of color and freshness. - Grate for a Soft Texture:
Grating the vegetables and eggs helps create the traditional, delicate texture that Mimosa Salad is known for.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration:
Store the Mimosa Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best eaten within this time frame as the ingredients are at their freshest. - Avoid Freezing:
This salad does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables.
Conclusion
Classic Mimosa Salad is a timeless dish that’s both simple to make and delightfully elegant. Its soft, layered texture and mild flavors make it the perfect addition to holiday gatherings or special occasions. This recipe, with its blend of tender potatoes, savory fish, and creamy layers, brings comfort and tradition to the table. With a beautiful golden finish from the egg yolk “mimosa” topping, this salad will surely bring a touch of festive cheer to any meal. Enjoy this beloved recipe with family and friends, and celebrate the essence of comfort and tradition!