Olivye, also known as Russian potato salad, is a classic dish for any holiday, or special occasion. In my household this dish does not last long, and my grandma is quick to whip it up anytime I come over. Olivye is a Russian/Ukrainian twist on potato salad, and is incredibly easy to make. Most of the work is in the prep, but once you’ve done it a few times, it will be a breeze.
Each family has their version for this recipe. But the main ingredients include: potatoes, eggs, pickles, carrots, peas, and kielbasa. My grandma would tell you that adding carrots to this recipe is an insult to the dish, but that’s because she has a distinct hatred for cooked carrots. I, however, hold no hostility towards cooked carrots. So I opt for the easy option, canned carrots and peas. Trust me, the flavor will be just as delicious.
Since I didn’t have any kielbasa on hand I used ham. You can also use turkey, chicken, or exclude the meat for a vegetarian option. According to my grandma there are two important components to getting this recipe just right. Type of pickles used, and owning a vegetable slicer. The type of pickle used is essential, and my grandma will swear by Claussen mini pickles. The mini specifically because they have all the great flavor and crunch, without leaving your Olivye too runny. The next key to this recipe is to dice everything the same size, a vegetable slicer like this one comes in very handy.
Once you have everything diced, the hard work is behind you. Now comes the mixing, a touch of mayo, and you have a great side dish for the next few days. You can always prepare the vegetables ahead of time, and add mayo when ready to serve.
In a large pot, add potatoes (skin on), and cover completely with water. Bring to a boil and cook about 25-30 min, or until cooked through. In a small pot, add eggs, cover with water and bring to a boil. Cook 8-10 min.
Drain potatoes and eggs, let rest until cool enough to handle. Skin the boiled potatoes. Cube potatoes, eggs, pickles, and ham. (Dice everything equal size).
Transfer to a mixing bowl.
Add peas and carrots to the mixing bowl.
Stir in mayo, and mix everything together.
