Russian Salad Recipe – Creamy, Crunchy, and Deliciously Easy

I still remember the first time I tasted Russian Salad. It wasn’t in Russia – it was at an Indian wedding buffet, sitting right next to the paneer tikka and fried rice. I thought, “What’s this cold mayo thing doing here?” Then I took a bite. Boom, creamy, sweet, tangy, crunchy – like all my childhood favorite textures decided to throw a party.

It’s still one of those salads that feels a little posh, a little retro, and totally irresistible.

👉 Be honest, do you also “taste test” a salad before committing to a full serving?

Table of contents

• What Exactly Is Russian Salad?
• Why It’s a Must-Try
• The Secret Ingredient
• Recipe for Russian salad
• Variations
• Substitutes
• Pairings
• Other Salad recipes
• Russian Salad FAQ
• Wrapping It Up

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What Exactly Is Russian Salad?

Russian Salad (also called Olivier Salad) is a creamy vegetable salad originally from Moscow, made with boiled potatoes, carrots, peas, mayo, and sometimes apples or pineapple for a sweet surprise. Over time, it traveled the world, and every country gave it a twist , India made it fruitier, France made it fancier, and you can make it yours.

It’s the kind of salad that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Creamy mayo dressing, a handful of bright veggies, maybe a bit of apple or chicken if you’re feeling fancy – toss it all in, chill it, and boom, you’re a salad artist.

For the curious history nerd in you: here’s a great How to russia article on history of olivier salad

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Why It’s a Must-Try

Because it’s easy, it’s colorful, and it’s one of those salads you can eat as a meal, not just a side. It’s also a showstopper at potlucks – that one dish people spoon onto their plate “just to taste” and then go back for seconds.

👉 Want to make yours look like café-style perfection? Toss it in a big glass bowl so the colors show through something like this glass mixing bowl set looks amazing on the table and works great for serving chilled salads.

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The Secret Ingredient

Here’s my little twist: a splash of pineapple juice in the dressing. It sounds wild, but it adds a tiny burst of sweetness that balances the mayo and makes the veggies shine. Oh, and don’t skip the boiled potato cubes, they soak up the dressing like little flavor sponges.

And please, use a good-quality mayonnaise – something creamy and rich, like Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise. Your salad will thank you.

You can make your own mayonnaise if you prefer, check out the recipe on homemade mayonnaise

Recipe for Russian salad

Variations

• Fruit Russian Salad: Add pomegranate, grapes, and banana for a sweet version.
• Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken, ham, or tofu.
• Healthier Twist: Replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
• Spicy Version: Add a dash of paprika or chili flakes for a gentle kick.

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Substitutes

• Mayonnaise → Greek yogurt or cashew cream for lightness
• Potatoes → Sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory vibe
• Pineapple → Mango or apple for fruitiness
• Lemon juice → Apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist

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Pairings

• Serve as a cold side with grilled chicken or fish
• Stuff it in sandwiches or pita wraps for quick lunches
• Pair it with garlic bread or crackers for brunch spreads
• Or just eat it straight out of the fridge (no judgment)

👉 If you want to level up presentation, serve it chilled in glass dessert cups — they look stunning and make portioning easier (Buy on Amazon).

Other Salad recipes

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Russian Salad FAQ

Question	Answer
Can I make Russian Salad ahead of time?	Yes! Chill it up to 8 hours before serving. It actually gets better.
How long can it stay fresh?	About 2 days in the fridge in an airtight container.
Can I make it without mayo?	Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead.
What vegetables work best?	Potatoes, peas, carrots, and corn — all boiled until tender.
Can I add fruits?	Absolutely! Apples and pineapples are classic.
Is Russian Salad vegan?	Only if you use vegan mayo and cream.
Why is it called Russian Salad?	It originated in Russia in the 19th century by Chef Lucien Olivier.
What’s the secret to good texture?	Cool veggies completely before mixing and don’t mash while tossing.
Can I use canned veggies?	In a pinch, yes, but fresh always tastes better.
Can I make it spicy?	Add chili flakes or a hint of mustard — makes it pop!

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Wrapping It Up

Russian Salad is proof that not all salads have to be green and leafy. It’s indulgent, playful, and has that creamy nostalgia factor that makes people go, “Oh wow, I haven’t had this in ages!”

Whether you serve it in fancy glass bowls or sneak spoonfuls straight from the fridge (we’ve all done that), it’s guaranteed to bring a smile.

👉 So tell me, are you team extra creamy or team fruity twist when it comes to Russian Salad?