Traditional Russian Olivier Salad – The Creamy Family Favorite I Keep Making Every Weekend
One of those cozy, nostalgic foods that always makes the table feel warm is traditional Russian olive salad. This dish, which is made with soft potatoes, crisp pickles, peas, eggs, and creamy mayonnaise, is easy, satisfying, and adored by all—even finicky eaters. This traditional salad is incredibly soothing and gratifying, whether it’s served for a leisurely weekend lunch or a family feast.
What Is Russian Olivier Salad?
Traditional Russian Olivier Salad, also known as Russian Salad, is one of the most beloved dishes in Russia and many Eastern European countries. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with simple ingredients that work beautifully together.
Originally created in the 1860s by Belgian chef Lucien Olivier in Moscow, the salad has evolved into a comforting homemade classic found at family celebrations, holidays, and gatherings.
The beauty of this salad is its balance of textures and flavors:
- Soft potatoes and carrots
- Crunchy pickles
- Sweet peas
- Tender eggs
- Savory chicken or bologna
- Creamy mayonnaise dressing
It may sound simple, but together it tastes incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 3 medium potatoes
- 2 medium carrots
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast or bologna, diced
- 4 small pickles, finely chopped
- 1 cup canned peas, drained
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
For the Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice (optional but highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Vegetables
Wash the potatoes and carrots thoroughly. Place them in a pot with water and boil until fork tender.
The first time I made this recipe, I accidentally overcooked the potatoes and ended up with mashed salad instead of Olivier Salad. Since then, I always check them carefully after 15 minutes.
Once cooked:
- Let them cool completely
- Peel the potatoes and carrots
- Dice them into small cubes
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Boil the eggs for about 10 minutes until hard-boiled.
Cool them in cold water, peel them, and chop into small pieces.
I love adding extra eggs because they make the salad richer and creamier.
Step 3: Prepare the Remaining Ingredients
Dice:
- Chicken or bologna
- Pickles
- Onion (if using)
Drain the peas properly so the salad doesn’t become watery.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Eggs
- Chicken or bologna
- Pickles
- Peas
- Onion
Add mayonnaise, mustard, and pickle juice.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Mix gently until everything is coated evenly.
At this stage, I usually sneak a spoonful to taste — and somehow it already tastes amazing before chilling.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
This step makes a huge difference because the flavors blend beautifully together.
Honestly, Olivier Salad tastes even better the next day. My mother always says leftover Olivier Salad is the real reward.
Tips That Make This Salad Extra Delicious
- Use waxy potatoes so they hold their shape better
- Chill the salad before serving
- Add pickle juice for extra flavor
- Dice ingredients evenly for the best texture
- Don’t overmix or it becomes mushy
Sometimes I add diced apples for a tiny touch of sweetness, especially during holidays.
What to Serve with Olivier Salad
This salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted meats
- Bread rolls
- Soup
- Tea during winter evenings
We even ate it with barbecue last Sunday, and it worked surprisingly well.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
Calories:
320 kcal
Protein:
11g
Carbohydrates:
18g
Fat:
22g
Fiber:
3g
Sugar:
4g
Sodium:
540mg
Nutritional values may vary depending on the mayonnaise and meat used.
Why I Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
Some recipes are fancy and complicated, but Olivier Salad reminds me that comfort food doesn’t need to be perfect to feel special.
Every time I make it, it feels like home. It’s the kind of dish people gather around quietly, taking second servings while talking about random memories and laughing over tea.
And honestly, those are always the best meals.
If you try this Traditional Russian Olivier Salad, make an extra bowl — because everyone will definitely ask for more.
