Russian Salad, also known as Olivier Salad, is a traditional Russian dish made with diced vegetables, boiled potatoes, eggs, and sometimes meat, all bound together in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. It’s a classic salad often served at holidays, special occasions, or family gatherings. It’s rich, filling, and delicious, making it a great side dish for a variety of meals.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium potatoes, boiled, peeled, and diced
- 2 medium carrots, boiled and diced
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen, cooked)
- 3 large eggs, hard-boiled and diced
- 1/2 cup pickles (gherkins), finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked ham or boiled chicken, diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the vegetables: Boil the potatoes and carrots in salted water until tender, then drain and let them cool. Once cool, peel and dice the potatoes and carrots into small cubes.
- Cook the eggs: Hard-boil the eggs, peel them, and dice them into small pieces.
- Prepare the other ingredients: If using ham or chicken, dice it into small cubes. Chop the pickles and, if using, red onions. Cook the peas if they’re not already cooked.
- Mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes, carrots, eggs, peas, pickles, and ham or chicken (if using). Add the chopped onion if desired.
- Add the dressing: Stir in the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard (if using) until everything is evenly coated. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.
Russian Salad is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a side dish for grilled meats. Enjoy this classic, hearty, and flavorful dish!
