Russian Salad (Olivier Salad)
Often gracing the tables at celebrations and family gatherings, Russian Salad—more traditionally known in its homeland as Olivier Salad—is a classic dish that’s both hearty and refreshing. Beloved across many countries, this creamy and flavorful salad pairs beautifully with meat or fish dishes, making it a versatile addition to any festive spread.
While nothing quite compares to the richness of homemade mayonnaise, this salad can also be prepared with quality store-bought mayo if you’re short on time. Either way, the result is a deliciously comforting dish with a satisfying mix of textures and tastes.
Recipe by: Christopher Peskias
Photography & Food Styling: Amaryllis Tsegkou
🕒 Prep Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 8
🧂 Ingredients:
- 500g mayonnaise (homemade or store-bought)
- 200g carrots, diced and briefly boiled (about 2 minutes)
- 800g potatoes, cooked until tender and diced
- 150g quality ham, preferably in cubes rather than slices*
- 150g peas (fresh or frozen, boiled until just tender)
- 150g pickled cucumbers, finely diced
- 6 hard-boiled eggs, cut into quarters
- ½ bunch fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 bunch fresh fennel or dill, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for finishing
🥗 Preparation Method:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced carrots, potatoes, ham, peas, pickles, chives, and fennel. Add the mayonnaise and season with salt and pepper. Gently mix until all the ingredients are evenly coated and well combined.
- Transfer the salad mixture to your serving dish, smoothing the surface with a spoon.
- Arrange the quartered hard-boiled eggs on top of the salad. For an extra touch of elegance, lightly drizzle the eggs with olive oil to give them a glossy finish. You can either leave the eggs as a decorative topping or gently fold them into the salad, depending on your preference.
👨🍳 Pro Tips:
- Chef’s tip: Instead of using pre-sliced ham, opt for a whole piece of quality ham and cut it into small, bite-sized cubes for better texture and flavor.
- This salad is best served chilled. After preparing, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of color and aroma.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a hearty weekend meal, Russian Salad brings a timeless elegance and delicious nostalgia to any occasion.