If you’re looking for a creamy, colorful, and satisfying side dish that never goes out of style, Russian Salad (Olivier Salad) is the perfect choice. Packed with tender vegetables, crunchy pickles, and a smooth mayonnaise dressing, this classic Salad is a star at any party table or holiday feast. Follow this complete guide to create a delicious bowl of Russian Salad that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
- Russian Salad Ingredients
- Optional Additions for this Salad
- Preparation Time
- How to Make Russian Salad Step by Step
- Why You’ll Love This Olivier Salad
- Oliver Salad FAQ
- Explore More Creamy Packed Salads
- External Links
- Conclusion
Russian Salad Ingredients
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 cup green peas (frozen or fresh)
3–4 pickled cucumbers, diced
1/2 cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
These fresh vegetables and creamy mayonnaise create the rich, satisfying base that makes this Salad a worldwide favorite.
Optional Additions for this Salad
Enhance the flavor and texture of your Classic Salad with any of these extras:
2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
1/2 cup cooked chicken or ham, diced
1 small apple, peeled and diced (for a sweet twist)
These additions can transform your Olivier Salad into a heartier meal or a unique party dish.
Preparation Time
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 mins |
| Cooking Time | 12 mins |
| Chilling Time | 30 mins |
| Total Time | 57 mins |
The short prep and cooking time make Classic Salad ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
How to Make Russian Salad Step by Step
Follow these four simple steps to make a perfect Classic Salad (Olivier Salad):
- Boil the vegetables
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the diced potatoes and carrots until tender but not mushy (about 10–12 minutes).
In the last 3–4 minutes, add the green peas if using fresh or frozen peas. Drain and let the vegetables cool completely. - Combine ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooled potatoes, carrots, peas, pickles, and any optional ingredients such as eggs or chicken. - Dress the salad
Add mayonnaise and gently mix until everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Chill and serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Olivier Salad
Versatile & Filling: Works as a side dish, appetizer, or light meal.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after chilling.
Customizable: Add chicken, ham, or apple for exciting variations.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, picnics, or festive gatherings.
Whether you call it Olivier Salad or Russian Salad, its creamy texture and colorful mix of vegetables make it an instant hit.
Oliver Salad FAQ
Can I use frozen vegetables for this Salad?
Yes, frozen peas and carrots work perfectly. Just thaw or briefly boil them before mixing.
How long does Russian Salad last in the fridge?
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this Salad healthier?
Use light mayonnaise or a mix of Greek yogurt and mayo for a lighter dressing.
Explore More Creamy Packed Salads
If you love creamy, vegetable- and fruit-packed salads like this Russian Salad, you might also enjoy trying our other flavorful creations: the classic Potato Salad for a hearty twist, the refreshing Avocado Cucumber Salad for a green, creamy delight, or the sweet and healthy Creamy Yogurt Fruit Salad to satisfy your fruity cravings.
External Links
For a deeper look into this classic salad, you can explore this detailed guide from Allrecipes, which covers the history, traditional ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and peas, and tips for balancing creamy textures with fresh vegetables. It also shares variations from around the world, helping you bring a unique twist to your own version at home.
Conclusion
This Salad (Olivier Salad) is a timeless recipe that combines creamy dressing, vibrant vegetables, and irresistible flavor in just 4 easy steps. Whether served as a side dish or the star of the table, it’s guaranteed to impress family and friends. Prepare it ahead, chill, and watch it disappear quickly at your next gathering!