This Russian-inspired potato and ham salad is reminiscent of the famous Olivier Salad, a beloved dish that originated in Russia and is often served during holidays or family gatherings. It features tender boiled potatoes, savory ham, crunchy pickles, and vegetables, all combined with a creamy mayonnaise dressing. The salad is simple to make, filling, and perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, flavorful dish. It can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light meal. Garnished with peas for a pop of color, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Ham: 150 g (cubed)
- Boiled potatoes: 2 medium (diced)
- Boiled carrots: 1 large (diced)
- Boiled eggs: 2 (chopped)
- Salad onion: 1/2 (finely chopped)
- Pickled cucumbers: 2-3 (diced)
- Mayonnaise: to taste (around 2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Canned peas: for garnish
Steps to Make the Russian Potato and Ham Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Boil the vegetables: Start by boiling the potatoes, carrots, and eggs. It’s important to cook them until they are tender but still firm, so they hold their shape in the salad. Once boiled, allow them to cool and then peel.
- Chop the ingredients: Dice the boiled potatoes, carrots, and ham into small, uniform cubes. Chop the boiled eggs into small pieces, and finely dice the pickled cucumbers and salad onion.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped ham, boiled potatoes, carrots, eggs, salad onion, and pickled cucumbers. Gently mix the ingredients together to evenly distribute them.
Step 3: Add the Mayonnaise
- Dressing: Add 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise to the salad. Mix well until all the ingredients are coated evenly with the creamy dressing. You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your taste preferences.
- Seasoning: Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the pickled cucumbers and ham might already add some saltiness, so taste the salad before adding too much salt.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Peas for garnish: For an extra touch of flavor and decoration, sprinkle canned peas on top of the salad before serving. You can also mix some peas into the salad if you prefer.
- Chill before serving: For the best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps the salad to firm up and be easier to serve.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 220-250 kcal
- Protein: 10-12 g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30 g
- Fat: 10-12 g
- Fiber: 3-4 g
- Sodium: 500-600 mg
- Sugars: 3-4 g
Key Ingredients:
- Potatoes: Boiled and cubed, potatoes provide the salad’s base with a soft, starchy texture.
- Ham: Cooked and diced ham adds a savory, meaty flavor. Alternatively, boiled or roasted chicken can be used.
- Pickles: Dill pickles offer a tangy contrast to the richness of the potatoes and ham.
- Carrots and Peas: These bring color and sweetness to the dish, balancing the salty and savory elements.
- Mayonnaise: A creamy dressing that binds the ingredients together.
- Eggs: Hard-boiled and chopped, they add richness and texture.
Variations:
- Meat Substitutes: You can replace ham with boiled chicken or bologna, as is common in modern versions.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based ham or sausages, vegan mayo, and omit the eggs.
- Additional Herbs: Dill or parsley can be added for extra freshness.
Cooking Tips:
- Boil the Vegetables Perfectly: Ensure that potatoes and carrots are boiled just until tender but not mushy to maintain a good texture in the salad.
- Cooling: Allow the boiled ingredients to cool completely before mixing with mayonnaise to prevent a soggy salad.
- Chill: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
This potato and ham salad provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat, making it a satisfying and hearty dish. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, potassium, and iron, thanks to the potatoes, carrots, and peas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes! In fact, this salad tastes better when made in advance. You can prepare it a day before serving and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together, making the salad even more delicious the next day.
2. Can I substitute any of the ingredients?
Definitely! You can substitute ham with other proteins like cooked chicken or turkey, or even go meatless by adding more vegetables like boiled peas or corn. The pickled cucumbers can be replaced with fresh cucumbers for a milder flavor, though the tanginess of pickles adds a traditional touch.
3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure the mayonnaise you’re using is gluten-free as well, if needed.
4. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the vegetables might start to lose their texture and the mayonnaise may become watery.
5. What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as part of a larger buffet spread for a holiday or celebration. It’s also perfect as a stand-alone dish for lunch or a light dinner.
Tips for Making the Best Russian Potato and Ham Salad
- Use firm potatoes: Choose a waxy potato variety like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, which hold their shape better after boiling. This will ensure that the salad has a good texture and doesn’t turn mushy.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables: Make sure the potatoes and carrots are boiled until just tender, but not too soft. Overcooked vegetables can break down when mixed, making the salad less appealing.
- Adjust the mayonnaise: If you prefer a lighter salad, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or substitute it with a mixture of yogurt and mayonnaise for a tangier, healthier option.
- Chill the salad: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for a while helps the flavors meld together, giving you a more cohesive taste. It also makes the salad firmer and easier to serve.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will keep for 2-3 days and should be consumed within that time for the best taste and texture.
- Avoid freezing: Freezing this salad is not recommended as the mayonnaise can separate and the texture of the potatoes and eggs can become mushy once thawed.
Conclusion
This Russian potato and ham salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that is sure to impress at any gathering. It’s versatile, allowing for various substitutions based on your preferences, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy schedules. Whether you’re familiar with Russian cuisine or trying it for the first time, this salad brings together classic flavors and textures that are loved by many. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious, hearty, and colorful salad that everyone will love!
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Russian Potato and Ham Salad (Olivier-Inspired)
- Total Time: 50mins
Description
This Russian-inspired potato and ham salad is reminiscent of the famous Olivier Salad, a beloved dish that originated in Russia and is often served during holidays or family gatherings. It features tender boiled potatoes, savory ham, crunchy pickles, and vegetables, all combined with a creamy mayonnaise dressing. The salad is simple to make, filling, and perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, flavorful dish. It can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light meal. Garnished with peas for a pop of color, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Ham: 150 g (cubed)
- Boiled potatoes: 2 medium (diced)
- Boiled carrots: 1 large (diced)
- Boiled eggs: 2 (chopped)
- Salad onion: 1/2 (finely chopped)
- Pickled cucumbers: 2-3 (diced)
- Mayonnaise: to taste (around 2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Canned peas: for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Boil the vegetables: Start by boiling the potatoes, carrots, and eggs. It’s important to cook them until they are tender but still firm, so they hold their shape in the salad. Once boiled, allow them to cool and then peel.
- Chop the ingredients: Dice the boiled potatoes, carrots, and ham into small, uniform cubes. Chop the boiled eggs into small pieces, and finely dice the pickled cucumbers and salad onion.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped ham, boiled potatoes, carrots, eggs, salad onion, and pickled cucumbers. Gently mix the ingredients together to evenly distribute them.
Step 3: Add the Mayonnaise
- Dressing: Add 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise to the salad. Mix well until all the ingredients are coated evenly with the creamy dressing. You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your taste preferences.
- Seasoning: Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the pickled cucumbers and ham might already add some saltiness, so taste the salad before adding too much salt.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Peas for garnish: For an extra touch of flavor and decoration, sprinkle canned peas on top of the salad before serving. You can also mix some peas into the salad if you prefer.
- Chill before serving: For the best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps the salad to firm up and be easier to serve.
- Prep Time: 30mins
- Cook Time: 20mins