Russian salad a popular appetizer

  Classic Russian Salad Recipe

**Ingredients:**

  - 3 medium potatoes, boiled and diced

  - 2 carrots, boiled and diced

  - 1 cup green peas, boiled

  - 1 cup diced cooked ham or chicken (optional)

  - 4 hard-boiled eggs, diced

  - 1 medium apple, dice

  - 1 small onion, finely chopped  

  - 1 cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)

  - Salt and pepper to taste

  - Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)

Russian salad a popular appetizer

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare Vegetables:** Start by boiling the potatoes and carrots until tender. Let them cool, then peel and dice into small cubes.

2. **Boil Peas:** Boil the green peas until tender. Drain and set aside.

3. **Prepare Other Ingredients:** Dice the cooked ham or chicken if using. Also, dice the hard-boiled eggs and apple. Finely chop the onion.

4. **Mixing the Salad:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, carrots, green peas, ham or chicken (if using), hard-boiled eggs, apple, and chopped onion.

5. **Seasoning:** Add salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful of the salt if your mayonnaise is already salty.

6. **Adding Mayonnaise:** Gradually add mayonnaise to the salad, mixing gently until all ingredients are well coated. Adjust the amount of mayonnaise according to your preference for creaminess.

7. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

8. **Garnish and Serve:** Before serving, garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired. Serve chilled as a side dish or a light meal on its own.

**Notes:**

- This salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like pickles, corn kernels, or cooked shrimp for variation.

Enjoy this classic Russian salad as a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for gatherings or as a quick meal option!