Russian – Olivier Salad

Olivier Salad (Оливье), also known as Russian Salad, is a popular traditional dish in Russia and several other countries in the former Soviet Union. It is a hearty, creamy potato salad typically made with boiled potatoes, carrots, peas, pickles, and boiled eggs, all mixed together in a rich mayonnaise dressing. The salad is often served as a side dish during holidays, festivals, and special occasions like New Year’s Eve and Christmas. It is also a common dish for family gatherings or celebrations.

The salad was originally created in the late 19th century by Lucien Olivier, a French chef who worked in Russia. Over time, it became a staple of Russian cuisine and has been modified in many ways, depending on local preferences.

Key Ingredients:

Potatoes:
- Boiled potatoes are the base of the salad. They give the salad a hearty, creamy texture when combined with the mayonnaise dressing.
Carrots:
- Boiled carrots add sweetness and color to the salad. They are cut into small cubes to match the other ingredients.
Pickles:
- Pickled cucumbers (often called gherkin pickles) provide a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the mayo dressing.
Boiled Eggs:
- Hard-boiled eggs are chopped and added for extra texture and protein.
Green Peas:
- Canned green peas are a common addition, giving the salad a pop of color and slight sweetness.
Mayonnaise:
- A generous amount of mayonnaise is used as the dressing. Some variations may also include mustard or sour cream to add depth to the flavor.

Flavor Profile:

Olivier Salad has a creamy, rich flavor, mainly from the mayonnaise. The combination of tangy pickles, sweet carrots, and salty peas provides a perfect balance, while the potatoes and eggs contribute to its hearty and satisfying nature.

How It’s Made:

Boil the Vegetables and Eggs:
- Potatoes, carrots, and eggs are boiled until tender. The potatoes and carrots are then peeled and cut into small, uniform cubes. The eggs are peeled and chopped into small pieces as well.
Prepare the Pickles and Peas:
- Pickles are finely chopped into small cubes, and green peas (usually canned) are drained and rinsed.
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes, carrots, pickles, peas, and eggs. Gently mix them to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Add the Dressing:
- Pour mayonnaise over the ingredients and mix everything together until the salad is well-coated. Some variations may also include a bit of mustard or sour cream in the dressing.
Chill and Serve:
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it cold as a side dish or appetizer.

Cultural Significance:

Olivier Salad is a symbolic dish in Russia, closely associated with holidays like New Year’s Eve and Christmas. It is commonly found on tables during family celebrations and gatherings.
The salad is widely recognized as a dish that has stood the test of time, evolving from its origins in French cuisine to become a staple of Russian holiday meals.

Variations:

Meat Additions:
- Some versions of Olivier Salad include boiled chicken, sausage, or ham to make it more filling and add extra protein.
Vegan or Healthier Versions:
- For a healthier or vegan version, the mayonnaise can be substituted with Greek yogurt, or the meat can be omitted in favor of more vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or avocados.
Regional Variations:
- Some regions or families add ingredients like apples, radishes, or cheese for extra flavor.

Health Benefits:

While Olivier Salad is often considered a rich dish, it can provide some nutritional benefits. The vegetables and boiled eggs offer vitamins, minerals, and protein. However, the high mayonnaise content makes it a calorie-dense dish, so it should be consumed in moderation.