How To Prepare Russian Salad Olivier Salad

How To Prepare Russian Salad (Olivier Salad). Learn how to prepare the classic Russian Salad, also known as Olivier Salad, in this step-by-step guide. A delicious mix of vegetables, eggs, and mayonnaise, it’s a popular dish for holidays and gatherings.

🥗 Introduction to Russian Salad

The Russian Salad, internationally recognized as Olivier Salad, is one of the most beloved cold salads in Eastern Europe. Invented in the 1860s by Belgian chef Lucien Olivier, who worked at the Hermitage, a prestigious restaurant in Moscow, this dish became a cultural staple. It’s especially popular during festive occasions like New Year’s Eve, Easter, and family celebrations.

While the original version contained extravagant ingredients like grouse and caviar, the modern version is far simpler but still hearty and flavorful.

🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a classic list of ingredients for serving 4–6 people:

• 3 medium potatoes (boiled and diced)
• 2 medium carrots (boiled and diced)
• 4 hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
• 1 cup green peas (cooked or canned)
• 5–6 small pickles (diced)
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast or ham (optional, diced)
• 1/2 small onion (finely chopped – optional)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill (optional, for garnish)

💡 Note: You can customize this recipe to your liking. Some people add apples, olives, or use sour cream to lighten the texture.

🥣 How To Prepare Russian Salad (Step-by-Step)

1. Boil the Vegetables and Eggs

• Wash the potatoes and carrots thoroughly. Boil them in salted water until they’re tender but not mushy. This usually takes about 15–20 minutes for potatoes and 10–15 minutes for carrots.
• In a separate pot, boil the eggs until hard-boiled (about 10 minutes). Let them cool.

2. Cool and Peel

• Once boiled, allow all ingredients to cool completely.
• Peel the potatoes, carrots, and eggs before dicing. This helps preserve the texture and prevents the salad from becoming too soft or watery.

3. Dice All Ingredients Uniformly

• Dice the potatoes, carrots, eggs, pickles, and any additional protein (chicken or ham) into small, uniform cubes.
• Add green peas and finely chopped onion (if using) to the bowl.

✅ Tip: Uniform pieces not only make the salad visually appealing but also ensure even distribution of flavors.

4. Mix Everything Gently

• Place all chopped ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
• Add mayonnaise gradually and mix gently to avoid breaking the vegetables.
• Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

🥄 Some variations include adding a teaspoon of mustard or a splash of pickle brine for added tang.

5. Chill Before Serving

• Refrigerate the salad for at least 1–2 hours. This allows flavors to blend beautifully.
• Serve cold, garnished with a sprig of dill or sliced boiled eggs on top.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Pairs well with roasted meats, BBQ, or grilled fish.
• As a Starter: Serve in small bowls or lettuce cups.
• For Holidays: Shape into a dome or use a food ring for an elegant presentation.

Whether you’re celebrating a traditional holiday or looking for a hearty and colorful addition to your table, Russian Salad (Olivier Salad) is a time-tested favorite.

📝 Variations Across Cultures

This salad has traveled far beyond Russia. In:

• Iran, it’s called Salad Olivieh and includes shredded chicken and mashed potatoes.
• Poland, it’s known as Sałatka jarzynowa and often appears during Easter.
• Spain, a version called Ensaladilla Rusa is served in tapas bars with tuna and red peppers.

This diversity shows the versatility and universal appeal of the dish.

🧊 Storage Tips

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Avoid freezing as the texture will degrade.

🔔For more tutorials like this, consider subscribing to our blog.

📩 Do you have questions or suggestions? Leave a comment or contact us!
🏷️ Tags: Russian salad, Olivier salad, Eastern European cuisine, salad recipes, potato salad, cold dishes, holiday recipes, traditional food, festive salads, mayo salad
📢 Hashtags: #RussianSalad #OlivierSalad #SaladRecipe #TraditionalFood #PotatoSalad #FestiveFood #ColdSalads #CookingGuide #FoodLovers #KitchenTips

🍴Final Thoughts

Russian Salad is more than just a dish it’s a celebration of flavor, tradition, and comfort. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, this salad is sure to please every palate. Give it a try, and bring a little piece of Slavic culinary heritage to your table!