The Ensalada de San Isidro is a beloved Madrid classic, known for its crisp textures and bold Mediterranean flavors. With a base of romaine lettuce, vibrant cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and hearty tuna, it’s finished with creamy hardboiled eggs and a garlicky vinaigrette. It’s not just a salad — it’s a celebration of tradition, typically served on May 15th during the feast of San Isidro, the patron saint of Madrid.
What makes this salad shine is its simplicity and authenticity. The ingredients are humble, yet their combination delivers a satisfying dish that works equally well as a side or a main course. Pair it with crusty bread and a cold Spanish beer for an effortlessly elegant meal. Whether you’re honoring tradition or just want a quick and nourishing lunch, this salad delivers.
Full Recipe:
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1 head romaine lettuce
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1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
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8 cherry tomatoes, halved
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4 oz (112 g) canned tuna in olive oil, drained
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1/4 cup green pimento-stuffed olives (45 g)
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1/4 cup black pitted olives (45 g)
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2 hardboiled eggs, halved
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (30 ml)
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1/2 tbsp sherry vinegar (8 ml)
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1 clove garlic, finely grated
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
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Pinch of sea salt
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Dash of black pepper
Directions:
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sherry vinegar, grated garlic, chopped parsley, sea salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
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Remove and clean the romaine leaves. Slice them crosswise into bite-sized pieces, rinse well, and spin dry. Add to a large serving bowl.
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Layer sliced red onion and halved cherry tomatoes on top of the lettuce.
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Crumble the drained tuna over the salad, followed by the green and black olives.
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Place the halved hardboiled eggs over the top.
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Season lightly with sea salt and black pepper, then drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 201 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction: A Celebration in a Bowl
The Ensalada de San Isidro is more than just a dish—it’s a reflection of Madrid’s culture, a tribute to tradition, and a beloved part of the annual celebration honoring the city’s patron saint, San Isidro Labrador. Often enjoyed during the festival that bears his name, this salad captures the essence of Spanish culinary values: simplicity, freshness, bold flavors, and seasonal ingredients.
This salad is a symbol of community, bringing families and friends together in mid-May to share a meal that’s refreshing, nourishing, and steeped in history. While it’s especially popular during the San Isidro Festival, many Spaniards enjoy it throughout the year as a vibrant starter or a light lunch.
The Historical Roots of Ensalada de San Isidro
San Isidro Labrador, born in the 11th century, is Madrid’s most venerated saint. A humble laborer known for his devotion to the land and the poor, he has become a figure of immense cultural importance in Spain. His feast day, May 15th, is a major holiday in Madrid and features parades, picnics, and public gatherings where traditional foods are served. Among these, the Ensalada de San Isidro holds a special place.
This salad’s roots lie in the idea of abundance from the earth. It incorporates ingredients that reflect agricultural fertility—greens, tomatoes, eggs, and tuna—representing both land and sea. Traditionally, it’s served with other local dishes like roasted potatoes and grilled meats or fish, rounding out a festive spread enjoyed outdoors with music and dancing.
A Dish Built on Balance and Simplicity
One of the charms of Ensalada de San Isidro is how it manages to deliver complex flavor and satisfying texture with minimal ingredients. The base of romaine lettuce offers a crunchy freshness, while sweet cherry tomatoes provide bursts of juiciness. Red onions add a mild sharpness, and the olives—both green and black—introduce saltiness and richness.
Canned tuna, particularly packed in olive oil, brings in protein and depth of flavor. Hardboiled eggs complement the tuna with creaminess and a rustic quality. Finally, the simple vinaigrette dressing—made with extra virgin olive oil, sherry vinegar, garlic, and parsley—ties everything together with a zesty, aromatic finish.
These ingredients create a dish that feels both rustic and refined. It’s filling yet not heavy, and it suits a range of dietary needs, including gluten-free diets.
Cultural Significance and Modern-Day Relevance
While this salad has deep roots in Spanish tradition, it remains highly relevant in modern kitchens. As more people look for quick, healthy, and flavorful meal options, Ensalada de San Isidro fits the bill perfectly. It’s also flexible—you can easily adapt it to your preferences or based on what’s available in your pantry.
In urban Madrid today, the salad is still a staple during San Isidro festivities. Families prepare it for gatherings in public parks, and restaurants feature their own versions on seasonal menus. Outside Spain, it’s becoming a favorite among foodies looking to explore authentic Mediterranean and Spanish flavors without needing hard-to-find ingredients or advanced cooking skills.
Its popularity continues to grow thanks to its photogenic presentation—bright greens, golden yolks, ruby tomatoes, and glossy olives all laid out beautifully in one bowl. It’s Instagram-worthy, satisfying, and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Nutritional Highlights of the Salad
One of the often-celebrated aspects of this salad is its nutritional profile. With a reasonable calorie count per serving (around 200 kcal), it’s a balanced meal suitable for health-conscious eaters. The olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, while the vegetables are rich in vitamins A and C.
Tuna adds protein and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting muscle health and cardiovascular function. Hardboiled eggs contribute additional protein along with essential minerals like iron and selenium. The inclusion of parsley and garlic offers anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
For those on specialized diets, this salad offers options. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free or pescatarian-friendly. For a vegetarian version, the tuna can be substituted with legumes like chickpeas or white beans.
Tips for Serving and Pairing
Traditionally served as a side dish, Ensalada de San Isidro also works wonderfully as a main course, especially in warmer months when lighter fare is preferable. You can pair it with grilled fish, Spanish tortilla, or even a hearty piece of bread with olive tapenade.
If you’re serving this at a dinner party or picnic, consider plating it in a large shallow bowl, with each ingredient layered to showcase the colors and textures. Pour the vinaigrette just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce.
A refreshing drink to complement this salad is a chilled glass of Mahou, a popular beer from Madrid. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a classic Spanish gaseosa (a lightly carbonated citrus drink).
Regional Variations and Ingredient Swaps
Like many traditional recipes, there are regional and personal variations of Ensalada de San Isidro. Some versions include boiled potatoes or roasted red peppers, while others might use anchovies instead of tuna. You can also swap romaine for spinach or arugula, depending on your taste.
For a more gourmet twist, try using heirloom tomatoes and marinated artichokes. Add some toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for crunch. A touch of smoked paprika in the dressing can also introduce a deeper, earthier note that’s unmistakably Spanish.
These variations allow you to tailor the dish to seasonal availability and your own creativity without losing the spirit of the original recipe.
Why You Should Try This Salad
Beyond its vibrant appearance and delicious taste, Ensalada de San Isidro is a story on a plate. It invites you into a centuries-old celebration of life, harvest, and community. It embodies the values of sharing, gratitude, and enjoyment of simple pleasures.
Whether you’re hosting a Spanish-themed evening, celebrating a special occasion, or just need a nourishing lunch that doesn’t take much time, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. It’s elegant enough for entertaining, quick enough for a weekday dinner, and endlessly customizable.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic from Madrid’s Heart
Ensalada de San Isidro is a gem of Spanish cuisine—humble yet flavorful, traditional yet adaptable. Its ingredients are easy to find, its preparation is quick, and the results are as beautiful as they are delicious. It’s a dish that encourages you to slow down, savor each bite, and connect with a rich culinary heritage.
Adding this salad to your repertoire isn’t just about trying a new recipe—it’s about experiencing a piece of Spain. It’s a way to celebrate the season, honor tradition, and enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal that never goes out of style.