Russian Potato Salad “Olivie” (“Olivier”) Recipe

Russian Potato Salad “Olivie” (or “Olivier”) is a beloved dish found at every Russian celebration. With its creamy texture, savory ingredients, and perfect balance of flavors, it’s no wonder this salad is a must-have for special occasions like New Year’s parties! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this classic recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

This salad by the name of “Olivie” is extremely popular in Russia.  Every Russian-style celebration has “Olivie” as part of the menu.  “Olivie” is a must in a Russian New Year party!

Why You’ll Love Russian Potato Salad “Olivie”

• A crowd-pleaser for any occasion: Its creamy, savory flavors are universally loved, making it a hit at parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
• Simple ingredients, big flavor: This recipe uses everyday ingredients like potatoes, pickles, and bologna, yet the result is something special and unforgettable.
• Filling and versatile: Packed with hearty ingredients, this salad is satisfying enough to be a meal on its own or a delicious side dish.
• Customizable to your preferences: You can easily swap the bologna for other proteins or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Perfect make-ahead option: This salad tastes even better after chilling, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance for gatherings.

“Olivie” (also sometimes spelled as “Olivier”) is also known as “Russian Potato Salad”.  It is indeed a very tasty potato salad, liked by almost everybody who tries it. This amazing salad is very filling, as it has meat it in – with some bread, it will make a great lunch!

Ingredients:

• 5 potatoes, boiled – Boiled and diced, these form the hearty base of the salad.
• 2 carrots, boiled – Add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• 3  hard-boiled eggs – Provide richness and a creamy texture.
• 1 onion – Adds a bit of sharpness to balance the creaminess.
• 4 salted pickles – Bring a tangy, salty bite that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 apple, peeled – Offers a hint of sweetness to contrast with the savory ingredients.
• 1/2 lb bologna – Adds a meaty, smoky flavor—though you can substitute with other proteins.
• 1/2 can (14 oz can) green peas – Provide a pop of sweetness and a soft texture.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1/4 tsp pepper – Adds a touch of mild heat to balance the creaminess.
• 1 cup mayo – The creamy binder that ties all the ingredients together.

For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Russian Potato Salad “Olivie”

• Large mixing bowl – To combine all the ingredients with ease.
• Cutting board – For chopping vegetables, eggs, and bologna.
• Sharp knife – Ensures precise and even cuts for a beautiful salad presentation.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurements of the mayo and seasonings.

Directions:

Peel the potatoes and chop into small cubes.  Chop the eggs and bologna into small cubes.  Chop the carrots, onion, apple and pickles into very small pieces.  Sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Add green peas and mayo and mix until combined.

Here are some more picture of salad “Olivie” (“Olivier”):

All chopped Olivie ingredients in a huge bowl, before adding mayo:

Salad Olivie in a huge bowl, after the mayo has been added:

Salad Olivie in a bowl, ready to go on a table:

Serving Suggestions

• Serve Russian Potato Salad “Olivie” in a large decorative bowl for a party or holiday spread.
• For individual portions, scoop the salad into small bowls or ramekins for a clean and elegant presentation.
• Pair it with Crispy Air Fryer Frozen Breadstick or Fluffy Bread Machine Dinner Rolls to create a complete and satisfying meal.
• Add a sprig of fresh dill or parsley on top for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
• It also works beautifully as a side dish for Juicy Air Fryer Pork Rib Tips, Juicy Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs, or Perfectly Broiled Cod Filets.

Tips For Success

• Boil ingredients ahead of time: Cook the potatoes, carrots, and eggs the day before to save time and let them cool completely. This helps the salad maintain its texture during mixing.
• Cut ingredients evenly: Uniformly sized pieces not only make the salad look better but also ensure every bite has a perfect mix of flavors.
• Don’t skip the pickles: Salted pickles are essential for the tangy, salty flavor that defines “Olivie.” If you can’t find salted pickles, dill pickles can work as a substitute.
• Taste and adjust: Once everything is mixed, taste the salad. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or mayo depending on your preferences.
• Chill before serving: Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully as it chills, making the salad even more delicious.
• Substitute with leftover meat: If you don’t have bologna, leftover cooked chicken, turkey, or even beef will work just as well. It’s a great way to use up extra meat!
• Use a light touch while mixing: Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula to avoid breaking the delicate vegetables and eggs.
• Store properly: If not serving immediately, cover the salad tightly and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for maximum freshness.

Variations And Substitutions

• Protein options: While bologna is traditional, you can easily swap it with cooked chicken, turkey, ham, or even diced smoked sausage. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat altogether and increase the amount of veggies or add cooked chickpeas for extra protein.
• Pickle alternatives: If salted pickles aren’t available, dill pickles or even gherkins can be used. For a milder flavor, use sweet pickles.
• Add herbs: For a fresh twist, mix in finely chopped dill, parsley, or chives. These herbs will brighten the salad and add a touch of color.
• Lighten it up: Replace half or all of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt or a light mayo alternative for a healthier option. You can also mix mayo with sour cream for a tangier flavor.
• Make it tangier: Add a splash of pickle juice or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to enhance the tanginess.
• Switch up the veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like diced celery, radishes, or cooked peas for additional textures and flavors.
• Apple alternatives: If you don’t have an apple, try using a pear or even a small amount of raisins to keep the sweet balance.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a little heat in your salad.

Storage And Reheating

• Storage: Transfer the leftover salad into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days to maintain its fresh flavor and texture. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
• Reheating: Since this is a chilled salad, reheating isn’t necessary. For best results, serve the salad straight from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
• Make-ahead tip: You can prepare all the ingredients (boiled, chopped, and ready to mix) the day before. Store them separately in airtight containers, and combine them with mayo just before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history behind Russian Potato Salad “Olivie”?

This salad was created in the 1860s by Lucien Olivier, a Belgian chef working in Moscow. It was originally a luxurious dish with ingredients like caviar, grouse, and crayfish, but over time, the recipe evolved into the simpler and more accessible version loved today.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can! Substitute the bologna with a plant-based protein like diced tofu or chickpeas, and use vegan mayo. Omit the eggs or use a vegan egg substitute to keep it plant-based while still delicious.

Why are salted pickles important in this recipe?

Salted pickles give this salad its signature tangy and salty flavor, which balances the creaminess of the mayo. If you can’t find salted pickles, dill pickles or even sweet pickles can be used, but the flavor will slightly change.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep it chilled and only take out portions as needed.

Can I use leftover roasted vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, this is a great way to repurpose leftovers. Just make sure they’re not heavily seasoned or sauced, as this could alter the salad’s flavor.

Do I have to peel the potatoes and carrots?

For a smoother texture and to blend seamlessly with the other ingredients, peeling is recommended. However, if you prefer the rustic look and added fiber, you can leave the peels on.

Can this salad be made in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s better to prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier when served.

Other Easy Potato Recipes

Extra Crispy Air Fryer Frozen Potato Wedges in 15 Minutes – These golden, crispy potato wedges cook perfectly in the air fryer for a quick and easy snack or side dish.

Quick and Easy Pan Fried Potatoes with Tomatoes – This savory skillet dish combines crispy potatoes and juicy tomatoes for a simple and flavorful side.

Simple Spanish Tortilla Recipe (Potato Omelette Without Flipping) – A no-flip twist on the classic Spanish tortilla with tender potatoes and eggs cooked to perfection.

Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe – A hearty one-pan meal with flavorful ground beef, tender potatoes, and spices for a quick dinner.

Air Fryer Stuffed Twice Baked Potatoes – These cheesy, creamy twice-baked potatoes are made effortlessly in the air fryer for a comforting side dish.

Creamy Instant Pot Potato Salad with Eggs – This easy pressure-cooked potato salad is creamy, tangy, and perfect for barbecues or family dinners.

Authentic Greek Lemon Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs – These roasted potatoes are infused with lemon, garlic, and oregano for a vibrant and irresistible side.

More Russian Recipes

• Russian Chebureki Recipe (Ground Beef Turnovers)
• Easy Russian Pelmeni Dumplings Made with Wonton Wrappers
• Traditional Russian Borscht Recipe with Beets