Quick & Tasty Russian Salad Recipe for Your Next Party Spread!

I’m just going to say it: the humble Russian Salad Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine tender potatoes, sweet carrots, crisp apples, and juicy chicken all tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, and it’s ridiculously easy to make. So if you’re planning a holiday feast or just need something crowd-pleasing for your next potluck, this salad is your golden ticket. Let’s dive into the deets and get cooking!

What Makes Russian Salad So Special?

Russian Salad (or Olivier Salad, if you want to sound fancy) is one of those dishes that can do it all. Need a hearty side dish? Done. Want a filling, veggie-packed lunch? It’s got you. Craving a dish that’s impressive yet fuss-free? Boom, Russian Salad delivers! Plus, it’s super customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your taste.

And here’s a fun fact: This salad isn’t just popular in Russia. It’s loved all over the world, from Spain to India to South America. Every country puts its own twist on it, but the base always involves a mix of boiled veggies, protein, and a creamy dressing.

Ingredients

2 kilos of peeled potatoes
1 kilo of peeled carrots
1 chicken breast
1 cup of peas
1 cup diced onion
1 peeled and diced red apple
2 peeled and diced hard-boiled eggs
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons mustard
3 cloves of crushed garlic
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Russian Salad Recipe?

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by washing your chicken breast. Pop it into a pot with water, salt, cumin, oregano, and crushed garlic. Let it simmer on medium-high heat for 20–25 minutes until it’s fully cooked. Once done, let it cool and shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Zulay Says: Save that broth! It’s perfect for soups or cooking rice for extra flavor.

Step 2: Boil the Veggies

Grab a large pot, add your peeled potatoes, salt, and enough water to cover them. Boil until tender (about 20 minutes). Drain, let cool, and dice into cubes.

In another pot, repeat the same process with your carrots.

Zulay Says: Cook the potatoes and carrots together in one pot. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as carrots may cook faster.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

In a big mixing bowl, combine your diced potatoes, carrots, shredded chicken, peas, onion, apple, and eggs. Toss everything gently to mix.

Step 4: Whip Up the Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix your mayonnaise and mustard until smooth. Pour this creamy concoction over your salad and fold everything together. Adjust the mayo if you like it creamier.

Flavor Booster: Add a splash of pickle juice or a squeeze of lemon for extra tang.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your salad to a serving dish. Sprinkle it with chopped cilantro, and you’re ready to go! Serve it chilled or at room temperature.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortlessly Elegant: It’s the kind of dish that looks fancy but is secretly super easy to whip up.
A Perfect Balance: Creamy dressing, hearty potatoes, sweet apples, and zesty onions — every bite is perfection.
Make-Ahead Magic: It tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the mild flavors, and it’s easy to customize for picky eaters.

Zulay's Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Russian Salad

Letting the salad rest in the fridge for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Fresh veggies make a world of difference in texture and taste.
Love a spicy kick? Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika. Want it tangier? Stir in a bit of plain yogurt with the mayo.
Chopped pickles or celery can add a delightful crunch to every bite.

Russian Salad Serving Suggestions

Russian Salad is incredibly versatile. Here’s how you can enjoy it:

As a side dish for grilled meats or roasted fish.
With crackers or toasted baguette slices for a fancy appetizer.
As a sandwich or wrap filling.
Straight from the bowl because it’s that good.

Fun Fact: The History of Russian Salad

Did you know this salad has French roots? It was created in the 1860s by chef Lucien Olivier at a Moscow restaurant. His original recipe was a luxurious mix of exotic ingredients like caviar, capers, and crayfish. Over time, it evolved into the simpler, more accessible dish we know and love today.

Zulay's Final Thoughts

This Russian salad recipe is easy to make, full of taste, and comes in a variety of bright colors. Indeed, it's great for any event. This salad will blow everyone away at a family dinner or a holiday party. So go ahead and try it! It will be gone from the table in no time!

Share this gem with your family and friends. Let's all enjoy good food together!

Let’s Hear From You!

Tried this recipe? We’d love to know how it turned out! Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag us on social media at @ZulayKitchen. Don’t forget to use #kitchenhappiness to spread the love.