There’s a special charm that accompanies a family gathering where a bowl of Olivier Salad, otherwise known as Russian Potato Salad, takes center stage. The first splash of colorful ingredients—creamy potatoes, bright carrots, and vibrant peas—never fails to draw me in, igniting memories of laughter and shared stories around the dinner table.
This delightful salad is more than just a dish; it’s a beloved tradition that adds a touch of nostalgia to any meal. As I rummaged through my kitchen cupboards one afternoon, I uncovered a forgotten stash of fresh veggies and sausages, which inspired me to whip up this crowd-pleaser.
With a balance of hearty flavors and creamy textures, this Olivier Salad combines wholesome ingredients that come together easily, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or simple weeknight dinners. Whether served as a side or a stand-alone treat, it’s a dish that bridges the gap between comfort food and culinary delight. Let’s dive into this homemade recipe that will have everyone clamoring for seconds!
Why will you love Olivier Salad?
Simplicity: This recipe comes together in no time, requiring minimal cooking skills while allowing you to create a dish that impresses.
Versatile Ingredients: Packed with potatoes, sausage, and a medley of colorful veggies, the flavor combinations cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, making it perfect for anyone.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s a timeless favorite that has been loved for generations, making it ideal for gatherings or casual family meals.
Creamy Texture: The blend of yogurt and mayo adds a delightful creaminess that keeps each bite enjoyable and satisfying.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for prepping in advance, this salad can be stored in the fridge for a flavorful treat that’s ready when you are!
Indulge in making this Olivier Salad, and enjoy the nostalgia and joy it brings to your dining experience.
Olivier Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Sausage or Ham – 1/2 lb – Adds a hearty, savory element that enhances the overall flavor of the Olivier Salad.
• Potatoes – 5 medium – The star of this dish, providing creaminess and substance to the salad.
• Carrots – 3 large – They contribute a natural sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
• Eggs – 4 large – Boiled eggs give a rich texture and boost the protein content.
• Dill Pickles – 3 – Their tanginess adds depth and a delightful crunch to each bite.
• Frozen Peas – 1 cup – These bright green gems bring a pop of color and a fresh taste to the salad.
For the Dressing
• Yogurt – 3/4 cup – A healthier alternative that provides creaminess without the extra calories.
• Mayo – 1/4 cup – Adds a rich, velvety texture to balance the yogurt.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste – Essential for enhancing and balancing the flavors of the Olivier Salad.
Indulge in this delightful mix of flavors and textures that make Olivier Salad a cherished classic at any table!
How to Make Olivier Salad
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Boil Veggies: In a large pot, combine the potatoes, carrots, and eggs. Fill with cold water to cover everything and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 10 minutes with the lid slightly ajar.
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Cool and Peel: Carefully remove the eggs and place them in an ice bath. Cook the potatoes and carrots for an additional 10-15 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and let everything cool before peeling the vegetables with a paring knife.
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Chop Ingredients: Cube the cooked sausage, potatoes, carrots, and eggs. Soak the frozen peas in a bowl of hot water for 1 minute, drain, and then gently fold them into the salad mixture.
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Mix Dressing: In a large bowl, add the yogurt, mayo, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Adjust seasonings according to your preferences for the perfect balance.
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Serve or Chill: Serve the Olivier Salad immediately or refrigerate it for about an hour to allow flavors to meld for a refreshing treat later.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like dill for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Olivier Salad is a fantastic choice for meal prep, especially for those busy weeknights! You can boil the potatoes, carrots, and eggs, then peel and cube them up to 24 hours in advance. Store the prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. For the frozen peas, simply soak them for a minute in hot water right before mixing; this ensures they stay vibrant. When you’re ready to serve, just combine all the prepped ingredients with the yogurt and mayo dressing, and your delicious Olivier Salad is ready to enjoy! This way, you’ll have a delightful and flavorful dish with minimal effort when it’s time to gather around the table.
How to Store and Freeze Olivier Salad
Fridge: Enjoy your Olivier Salad fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Make sure it’s well-sealed to maintain its creamy texture and flavors.
Freezer: While not ideal for freezing due to the dressing, if you must, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Be aware that the texture may change once thawed.
Serving After Storage: Reheat any leftover ingredients separately (like sausage or ham), then mix with the chilled salad for a comforting dish. Adjust seasonings if necessary!
Pro Tip: Always give your salad a quick stir and taste test after storing, as flavors can mellow in the fridge. This is especially important for dishes like Olivier Salad!
Olivier Salad Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will customize the classic Olivier Salad to your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Replace sausage or ham with chickpeas or tempeh for a protein-packed, plant-based version. This twist keeps it hearty while making it meat-free.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat. Just a little will elevate the salad’s flavor profile beautifully.
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Creamy Avocado: Swap half of the yogurt for ripe mashed avocado for a luscious, creamy texture that adds healthy fats. Avocado pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients!
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Herby Delight: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten the flavors and introduce a fresh element. It’s an easy way to elevate the dish with minimal effort.
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Sour Cream Boost: For extra creaminess, replace mayo with sour cream or incorporate both for a tangy twist that enhances the dressing’s flavor.
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Sweetness: Toss in some diced apples or grapes for a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory elements in the salad. It’s a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and a rich flavor. They provide an interesting texture contrast and make each forkful exciting!
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in some diced pickled beets for a vibrant color and a tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the classic flavors of the salad. This twist is visually stunning and utterly delicious!
What to Serve with Olivier Salad?
Imagine a table full of delightful dishes that bring together the warmth of home-cooked meals, inviting everyone to gather and dig in.
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Crusty Bread: Freshly baked bread provides a delightful crunch, perfect for scooping up the creamy salad. It’s an essential pairing that makes every bite satisfying.
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Roasted Chicken: A simple, herb-marinated roasted chicken complements the creamy textures of the salad, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
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Grilled Vegetables: Colorful seasonal vegetables add a smoky char that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the Olivier Salad, bringing freshness to the table.
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Pickled Beets: Their earthy flavor and vibrant color not only enhance the presentation but also add an extra dimension of taste that pairs exquisitely with the salad.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp and refreshing white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, serves as an excellent accompaniment, amplifying the salad’s pleasant creaminess.
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Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light fruit sorbet will cleanse the palate and provide a sweet, refreshing finish to your meal.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of a creamy coleslaw can create a delightful texture contrast, enhancing the overall experience of your dinner.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: Add an extra touch of comfort by serving crispy potato wedges on the side, a great way to elevate that hearty potato connection.
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Sparkling Water: Refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon offers a light, bubbly contrast to the richness of the Olivier Salad, keeping your meal balanced.
Expert Tips for Olivier Salad
• Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, high-quality vegetables and meats for a more flavorful Olivier Salad. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in taste!
• Perfectly Cooked Eggs: For ideal boiled eggs, aim for a soft, creamy yolk by cooking them for around 9-12 minutes. Place them in an ice bath immediately to stop the cooking process.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the Olivier Salad to chill for at least an hour after preparation enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully.
• Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper incrementally while mixing. Remember, you can always adjust seasonings, but it’s hard to fix an overly salty dish!
• Customizable Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins as desired. This recipe is versatile, making it easier to cater to different tastes or dietary needs.
Olivier Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for Olivier Salad?
Absolutely! When selecting potatoes, opt for waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or Red Bliss, as they hold their shape well during cooking. Look for potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free of dark spots or blemishes, which indicates freshness. The riper the potatoes, the creamier your salad will taste!
How long can I store Olivier Salad in the fridge?
You can keep your Olivier Salad fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge. Ensure it’s well-sealed to help maintain its delightful creamy texture and flavors. If you notice any separation of ingredients, just give it a little stir before serving!
Can I freeze Olivier Salad?
While it’s not ideal for freezing due to its creamy dressing, you can freeze it for up to 1 month if absolutely necessary. To do this, place the salad in an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion. However, be mindful that the texture may not be the same after thawing, and the mayonnaise and yogurt may separate.
What should I do if my salad tastes bland after storing?
Very! If your Olivier Salad doesn’t taste as vibrant after a day in the fridge, simply add a pinch of salt, some pepper, or even a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Remember to give it a gentle stir before adjusting the seasonings! Don’t forget to taste as you go!
Is there a way to make Olivier Salad pet-friendly?
Indeed! If you want to share a little with your furry friends, prepare a separate batch without mayo, yogurt, or pickles, as these may not be safe for pets. Instead, use diced veggies like carrots and peas mixed with boiled potatoes for a delicious and safe treat that they’ll love!
What can I use as substitutions for allergens in Olivier Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, consider using low-fat or dairy-free alternatives for the yogurt and mayo. For a vegetarian version, replace the sausage or ham with chickpeas or a plant-based protein. Just ensure all substitutions maintain similar textures and flavors for a delightful experience!
Savor the Classic Olivier Salad: A Delicious Potato Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, combine the potatoes, carrots, and eggs. Fill with cold water to cover everything and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 10 minutes with the lid slightly ajar.
- Carefully remove the eggs and place them in an ice bath. Cook the potatoes and carrots for an additional 10-15 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and let everything cool before peeling the vegetables.
- Cube the cooked sausage, potatoes, carrots, and eggs. Soak the frozen peas in a bowl of hot water for 1 minute, drain, and then gently fold them into the salad mixture.
- In a large bowl, add the yogurt, mayo, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Adjust seasonings according to your preferences.
- Serve the Olivier Salad immediately or refrigerate it for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld.