Olivier Salad “Ruby”
Ingredients
Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients:
Boil or roast the chicken or turkey in advance, then cut into small cubes.
Boil the potatoes and carrots until tender, let cool, and dice into small cubes.
Hard-boil the eggs, peel, and chop them finely.
Dice the pickles and green apple into small cubes.
Remove the seeds from the pomegranate.
Cut the feta cheese into cubes or crumble it.
Mixing:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, potatoes, carrots, eggs, pickles, apple, and feta cheese.
Dressing:
Add mayonnaise or yogurt, season with salt and pepper, and gently mix until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Serving:
Place the salad on a serving plate and garnish with pomegranate seeds. The salad is ready to serve — bright, fresh, and festive.
Olivier Salad with Pomegranate — A Festive Twist on a Classic
Olivier salad is a timeless holiday favorite, known for its creamy texture and comforting flavors. Traditionally made with boiled potatoes, carrots, eggs, peas, and meat, this classic Russian potato salad has delighted families for generations. Today, many home cooks and chefs are giving it a modern, vibrant twist by adding pomegranate seeds, creating Olivier salad with pomegranate — a dish that is as visually striking as it is delicious.
The combination of fresh, juicy pomegranate seeds with the creamy, savory base creates a perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness and slight tartness of the pomegranate complement the richness of mayonnaise or yogurt-based dressing, while the crunchy vegetables provide texture and freshness. Adding pomegranate not only elevates the flavor but also turns a traditional dish into a festive centerpiece perfect for holidays, family gatherings, and dinner parties.
To make this salad, start by boiling potatoes, carrots, and eggs until tender. Dice them into small, uniform cubes to ensure a smooth, cohesive texture. Add diced pickles or cucumbers, green peas, and your choice of protein — classic options include boiled chicken, ham, or traditional Russian bologna. Fold everything gently with mayonnaise or a lighter mix of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise to create a creamy consistency. Finally, sprinkle generous pomegranate seeds on top for a burst of color, flavor, and antioxidants.
This modern take on the classic Olivier salad is perfect for both casual meals and festive occasions. Serve it in a decorative bowl, portion it in individual cups, or use a mold to create a layered presentation. Its vibrant red highlights make it visually appealing, while the familiar savory base keeps it comforting and satisfying.
Olivier salad with pomegranate is also easy to prepare ahead of time. You can chop and mix the main ingredients, storing them separately from the dressing and pomegranate until ready to serve. This ensures freshness and makes last-minute entertaining stress-free.
Whether you are hosting a holiday feast or looking to update a classic family recipe, this Olivier salad with pomegranate is a must-try. It combines tradition, flavor, and modern flair into one irresistible dish that your guests will remember.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories does the salad have?
Approximately 250–300 kcal per serving, depending on the amount of mayonnaise or yogurt used.
Can I substitute chicken with turkey or another protein?
Yes, turkey, boiled beef, or even smoked chicken works well if you want a richer flavor.
Can I use cranberries or cranberry sauce instead of pomegranate?
You can, but pomegranate adds freshness and a festive appearance, while cranberries will change the taste and texture.
How can I make the salad lower in calories?
Use yogurt instead of mayonnaise and control the amount of feta cheese.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, it’s best to mix the main ingredients with the dressing 1–2 hours before serving. Add the pomegranate seeds just before serving to keep them juicy and fresh.
Can I replace the gherkins with other pickles?
Yes, pickled or fresh cucumbers work, but avoid ones that are too watery.

