Description
Russian Beet Salad is a colorful, creamy, and flavor-packed side dish that brightens any table. Made with earthy beets, tangy sour cream, and rich mayonnaise, this traditional Slavic salad is loved for its bold flavor and vibrant pink hue. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or Sunday dinners, this recipe is easy to customize with apples, nuts, or even herring for an authentic taste of Eastern Europe.
Ingredients
3 large beets, cooked, peeled, and grated
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
3 tablespoons sour cream
2 cloves garlic, grated
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins (choose one or a combination):
1 green apple, diced (for sweetness and crunch)
2 tablespoons raisins or chopped prunes
1–2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 small pickled cucumber, diced
1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
Instructions
Cook the Beets: Boil, steam, or roast the beets until fork-tender. Let them cool, peel, and grate them. Roasting adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Prepare the Creamy Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Combine: Gently fold the grated beets into the dressing until fully coated. Stir in walnuts, fresh dill, and any optional add-ins.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle extra dill or nuts on top. Serve chilled as a side dish or a spread on bread or crackers.
Notes
- Flavor Boosters: For extra depth, try adding a teaspoon of horseradish or grainy mustard.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with grilled meats, fish like herring or salmon, or serve as a vegetarian side with roasted vegetables.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir before serving if liquid separates.
- Tip: Avoid watery salad by letting cooked beets cool fully and squeezing out excess liquid before mixing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: lunch
- Cuisine: Russian / Eastern European
Nutrition
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g