Olivier Salad – Russian Potato Salad

Name: Olivier Salad – Russian Potato Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Russian
Ingredients: 3 medium potatoes (about 3 cups), cooked with skins on, peeled, then diced; 3 medium carrots (about 1.5 cups), cooked with skins on, peeled, then diced; 8 eggs, cooked, peeled, diced to ¼” cubes; 3 cups smoked salami-type sausage, diced to ¼” cubes; 15 oz canned peas, drained; 1.5 cups diced dill pickles, diced to ¼” cubes (use less if your pickles are more sour); ½ cup green onion (about 4 scallions), chopped (optional); ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional); ¼ cup chopped fresh dill; 2 Tbsp oil; 2 cups mayonnaise (or to taste); 1 tsp salt; 2 tsp black ground pepper

Recipe By:

Jesseca

Posted:

June 13, 2025

Updated:

June 13, 2025

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Creating the perfect Olivier Salad – Russian Potato Salad is more than just a cooking process; it’s about embracing a rich cultural tradition. Picture yourself in a cozy kitchen, the aroma of boiled vegetables wafting through the air, as you prepare a dish that holds generations of family memories. This salad is colorful, delicious, and filled with ingredients that harmonize beautifully together. From the tender potatoes and carrots to the savory salami and creamy mayonnaise, every element shines. Whether it’s a special gathering or a weekday meal, this dish stands out as a favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to recreate this classic recipe that’s sure to impress your loved ones while filling your home with warmth and nostalgia.

Why This Recipe Works

Creating the perfect Olivier Salad requires balancing textures and flavors. The combination of tender vegetables, creamy mayonnaise, and savory salami provides a delightful mouthfeel that keeps every bite interesting. Each ingredient contributes to that authentic Russian potato salad experience, making it a beloved dish that bridges generations and cultures. The mix of crunch from the pickles and peas, the softness of the potatoes and carrots, and the richness of the eggs ensure that every forkful is a delightful surprise.

Why You’ll Love This Olivier Salad – Russian Potato Salad

This Olivier Salad is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Its vibrant colors and rich taste make it a standout dish for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a simple weeknight dinner. You’ll love how it easily comes together and how it can be adapted to suit your personal taste preferences. The simplicity of preparation, combined with the depth of taste, makes this salad a yearly favorite at many tables. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover ingredients you have on hand!

Ingredients

3 medium potatoes (about 3 cups), cooked with skins on, peeled, then diced
3 medium carrots (about 1.5 cups), cooked with skins on, peeled, then diced
8 eggs, cooked, peeled, diced to ¼” cubes
3 cups smoked salami-type sausage, diced to ¼” cubes
15 oz canned peas, drained
1.5 cups diced dill pickles, diced to ¼” cubes (use less if your pickles are more sour)
½ cup green onion (about 4 scallions), chopped (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh dill
2 Tbsp oil
2 cups mayonnaise (or to taste)
1 tsp salt
2 tsp black ground pepper

Preparing the Vegetables

Cook the Potatoes and Carrots

Begin by cleaning the potatoes and carrots. Place them in a pot, cover with water, and boil over medium heat until you can easily pierce them with a fork, which will take about 20-25 minutes once the water starts boiling. It’s important to avoid overcooking to maintain their shape. Afterward, drain and allow the vegetables to cool completely—chilling them in the freezer for about 15 minutes can help preserve their structure.

Boil the Eggs

In a separate pot, cover the eggs with water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cook for 5 minutes. Then, drain and cover them with cold water to cool completely. Once cooled, peel the eggs and set aside for later use. Taking care while peeling helps maintain the egg’s shape, ensuring it looks great in the final salad!

Chopping Ingredients

Prepare Salami and Vegetables

While the potatoes, carrots, and eggs are cooking and cooling, it’s time to prepare the salami and pickles. Dice your choice of Polish sausage (kielbasa works wonderfully) and slice the pickles into small cubes. Optionally, chop the green onions, parsley, and dill. As you combine all these ingredients in a large mixing bowl, you’ll start to see the colorful medley that makes this dish so appealing.

Dicing Main Ingredients

Dice the Cooked Vegetables

Once your potatoes, carrots, and eggs are completely cooled down, it’s time to dice them into small ¼” cubes. As you add these to the bowl containing the salami and pickles, you’ll notice how the textures and flavors start to mingle together, creating a visual feast. This mixture is the heart of the Olivier Salad, where everything comes together beautifully.

Assembling the Salad

Dress the Salad

Now comes the fun part! Pour 2 cups of mayonnaise into the bowl, then sprinkle in 1 tsp of salt and 2 tsp of black pepper. Gently mix everything until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Take a moment to taste the salad and adjust the mayonnaise and seasoning as necessary to suit your preferences. The creamy texture combined with the slight crunch should make your mouth water!

Serving Suggestions

Olivier Salad can be served chilled or at room temperature. For a festive touch, garnish with additional fresh herbs before serving. It’s perfect as a side dish or a stand-alone meal paired with crusty bread. Imagine presenting this colorful dish at your family table—it’s sure to be a hit!

Tips for Success

Ensure your vegetables are fully cooled to maintain their shape and texture.
Using high-quality mayonnaise really does enhance the flavor.
If you prefer a lighter salad, adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your liking without sacrificing creaminess.

Variations

Explore different flavors by substituting ingredients. You might enjoy adding cooked chicken for protein or exchange the salami for a vegetarian version using beans or tofu. Consider playing with herbs like basil or cilantro for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Olivier Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Interestingly enough, the flavors may intensify over time, making it even more delicious! Just give it a gentle stir before serving.

Pairing Ideas

When it comes to drinks, pair your Olivier Salad with something light and refreshing, like iced tea or lemonade. It also complements grilled meats or roasted vegetables beautifully for a balanced meal. The salad’s savory richness balances the freshness of these dishes perfectly.

FAQs

1. Can I make Olivier Salad in advance?
Yes, it’s actually better if made the day before, as the flavors meld together over time.

2. Is Olivier Salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! You can create a vegetarian version by omitting the salami and adding more vegetables or legumes.

3. What can I serve with Olivier Salad?
It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled meats, or as part of a larger buffet spread during holidays and gatherings.

4. Can I freeze Olivier Salad?
Freezing isn’t recommended since it affects the texture of the vegetables and mayonnaise.

5. What other ingredients can I add?
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like apples for sweetness, or other vegetables such as bell peppers or corn.

Experience the timeless delight of Olivier Salad—Russian Potato Salad. This dish is not just a recipe; it represents a harmonious blend of flavors and traditions that brings family and friends together. Whether enjoyed at a festive gathering or a casual dinner, this salad is sure to evoke nostalgia and pleasure with each satisfying bite. Enjoy this creamy, savory delight, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!