Russian Salad Olivye

Russian Salad Olivye is a hearty, creamy, and savory potato salad that’s a staple in Russian and post-Soviet cuisines. Traditionally served during holidays and celebrations, this beloved dish combines tender potatoes, vegetables, eggs, and either bologna or chicken, all bound together with rich mayonnaise. It’s a comforting and nostalgic dish with universal appeal.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic and crowd-pleasing
• Rich, creamy texture with a balanced flavor
• Perfect for parties, potlucks, and holidays
• Easy to make in advance
• Customizable ingredients to fit dietary needs
• Serves well as a side or main dish
• Familiar ingredients with an international twist
• Great cold salad for warm or cool weather
• A taste of Russian tradition
• Satisfying and filling

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boiled potatoes
• Cooked carrots
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Pickles (dill or gherkins)
• Cooked green peas (canned or frozen)
• Cooked chicken breast or bologna
• Mayonnaise
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (like dill or parsley)

directions

1. Boil potatoes and carrots until tender. Cool completely and peel.
2. Hard boil the eggs, cool, peel, and chop.
3. Dice the potatoes, carrots, pickles, meat (or bologna), and eggs into small cubes for uniform texture.
4. Add green peas to the mixture.
5. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and gently mix.
6. Add mayonnaise, salt, and pepper to taste, and stir to coat evenly.
7. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.
8. Garnish with herbs if desired and serve cold.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6–8 people as a side dish.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add more peas or beans.
• Vegan: Use plant-based mayo and omit eggs and meat.
• Protein Swap: Replace bologna with ham, turkey, or tofu.
• Tangy Kick: Add a splash of pickle juice or lemon juice.
• Extra Crunch: Include diced celery or radish.
• Spiced Version: Stir in a bit of mustard or horseradish.
• Low-Mayo: Mix with half mayo and half sour cream or yogurt.
• Traditional Touch: Use Russian-style bologna (Doktorskaya) if available.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Russian Salad Olivye should always be served cold; it does not require reheating.

Avoid freezing, as the texture of the potatoes and mayo can become watery and unpleasant upon thawing.

FAQs

What is Russian Salad Olivye?

It’s a creamy potato salad made with boiled vegetables, eggs, pickles, peas, and meat, bound with mayonnaise.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld.

What kind of meat is traditionally used?

Russian-style bologna (Doktorskaya) is traditional, but chicken or ham also work well.

Is this salad served warm or cold?

Always cold. It’s best chilled before serving.

Can I freeze Russian salad?

Freezing is not recommended due to changes in texture from the mayo and potatoes.

How small should I cut the ingredients?

Cut all components into small, uniform cubes for the classic look and best mouthfeel.

Is it the same as American potato salad?

No, it includes more ingredients like peas, pickles, and meat, and has a firmer, cubed texture.

What type of mayonnaise should I use?

Use a good-quality full-fat mayo for authentic richness, or substitute with light or vegan mayo if needed.

Can I add onions to the salad?

Yes, finely diced red or green onions can add a mild bite.

Is this salad Russian or French in origin?

It was created by Belgian chef Lucien Olivier in Moscow in the 1860s—so it’s Russian in legacy but French-inspired.

Conclusion

Russian Salad Olivye is more than just a potato salad — it’s a cherished dish that brings together flavors, memories, and people. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion or a simple family meal, its creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it a true comfort food classic. Easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and always satisfying, this salad is a must-try for any fan of traditional comfort cuisine.

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