Experience a taste of nostalgia with this vegan Olivier salad, a plant-based twist on the classic European potato salad that has been a beloved holiday dish in my family for generations.
Growing up in Moldova, Eastern Europe, the winter holidays were always a time of warmth, family, and delicious food. One dish that always graced our table was the classic potato salad, a comforting and flavorful staple that brought everyone together. This salad, with its simple yet delightful ingredients, was not just a meal but a cherished tradition.
The Backstory
In Moldova, the winter months can be long and cold, making hearty and nourishing dishes an essential part of our diet. The potato salad, known as “Salată Olivier” was a versatile and accessible dish that could be made from ingredients readily available even in the coldest months. It became a beloved part of our holiday celebrations, a dish that was always prepared with love and care by my mother or grandmother. The combination of creamy potatoes, sweet peas, tangy pickles, and optional bologna slices created a perfect harmony of flavors that we all looked forward to.
What Makes This Salad Is So Good
What makes this Eastern European potato salad so special is its simplicity and versatility. The golden potatoes provide a creamy base, while the carrots add a subtle sweetness. The diced dill pickles bring a refreshing tang, contrasting beautifully with the sweetness of the canned peas. The addition of bologna slices adds a savory depth, although the salad is just as delicious without them. The dressing, made with mayo or sour cream, binds everything together in a creamy, luscious mixture. Garnished with fresh dill or parsley, the salad not only looks inviting but also offers a burst of fresh flavor. The result is a comforting and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a light meal.
This vegan version of Olivier Salad is creamy, tangy, and perfect for any occasion. Join me as I share the recipe for this beloved holiday staple and a few creative variations to make it your own.
Vegan Olivier Salad (Russian Salad)
Equipment
- large pot
- Knife
Ingredients
- 2-3 large golden potatoes
- 1 large carrot
- 1 cup diced dill pickles
- 1 cup canned sweet peas
- veganaise or almond milk sour cream
- bologna slices optional
- fresh firm tofu optional
- salt & pepper (if using sour cream)
- fresh dill, parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the potatoes and carrot and place whole in a large pot to boil. Boil for about 20-30 minutes (depending on the sizes of potatoes). Cook until the knife can go easily through the potato.
- In the meantime, let's dice the pickles and add them to a large bowl.
- Drain the canned sweet peas and add them to the bowl.
- If you choose to use bologna slices, cut them into squares and add to the bowl.
- Once the potatoes and carrots are boiled, strain the water and let cool down. Peel the potatoes and carrots off their skin.
- Dice the boiled potatoes and carrots. Add to the large bowl.
- Add the veganaise (or sour cream) to the ingredients and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Serve cold!
Notes
Make Your Mayo at Home
Mix a block of silken tofu (16oz), 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, a teaspoon of mustard and maple syrup and salt to a blender. Blend until smooth. Store in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Variations
While the traditional recipe is already a winner, there are a few variations you can try to make this salad your own:
- Replace bologna with smoked tofu, chickpeas or hearts of palm for a twist.
- Experiment with different herbs like parsley, green onions, and chives for unique flavor profiles.
- Try replacing the pickles with fresh cucumbers for a crunchy, refreshing taste.
This potato salad is more than just a dish; it’s a nostalgic journey back to the warmth of family gatherings and festive celebrations. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit any palate, making it a wonderful addition to any meal, whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply enjoying a comforting meal at home. Serve it cold and savor the taste of a Moldovan winter tradition!