Olivier Salad, also known as Russian Potato Salad, is a creamy and hearty dish made with potatoes, vegetables, eggs, pickles, and tender meat mixed in a flavorful mayonnaise dressing. This classic salad is popular at holiday gatherings, celebrations, and family dinners across Eastern Europe and beyond.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup cooked chicken, ham, or bologna, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 4 dill pickles, diced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Notes
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best.
- Pickles: Dill pickles add the classic tangy flavor.
- Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayonnaise gives the creamiest texture.
- Protein: Traditional versions often use chicken, ham, or bologna.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add potatoes and carrots.
- Cook until tender but not mushy, about 10–12 minutes.
- Drain and let cool completely.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
- Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with water.
- Boil for 10 minutes.
- Cool, peel, and dice the eggs.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine potatoes, carrots, eggs, peas, diced meat, pickles, and onion.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
Step 5: Combine
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
- Gently stir until evenly coated.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Garnish with fresh dill if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
Tips
- Chill the salad well before serving for the best flavor.
- Dice ingredients into small, even pieces for authentic texture.
- Do not overcook the potatoes or carrots.
- Add extra pickles for more tanginess.
Variations
- Vegetarian Olivier Salad: Skip the meat and add extra peas.
- Apple Twist: Add diced apples for sweetness and crunch.
- Seafood Version: Use shrimp or crab instead of meat.
- Lighter Version: Replace part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.