a Persian version of chicken salad

A Persian twist on a classic Russian salad. Super delicious in sandwiches, or on its own.
I love this salad because it’s (a) simple, and (b) freakin’ delicious. It’s a common option for large crowds and birthday parties, and is always a hit. I personally think it tastes best on fresh baguette, or just plain toast (in part because it’s how my mom used to pack it for my school lunches in grade school.) Please note that the proportions I’ve provided for each of the ingredients are not precise measurements that *must* be followed, it’s really up to you how much of everything you add. You can choose to add more chicken, less mayo, more lemon juice, etc., but here are the basics that I follow. Some people also add grated carrots for color (but not I).
Credit: my lovely mother
Ingredients
- 1 chicken, cooked & shredded (I just get a rotisserie chicken & shred it)
- 2-3 cups mayonnaise (I use the light, olive oil mayo)
- 4 potatoes, cooked & chopped (or 2 cans of diced potatoes)
- peas (I use 1-2 cans, using some for garnish, or a small pack of frozen)
- 6 boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 jar of dill pickles, finely chopped (5-6 big pickles)
- 1-2 tbs. of olive oil
- 1-2 tbs. of lemon juice
- salt & pepper, to taste
- olives (just for garnish)
- sprig of parsley (also for garnish)
Directions
- In a bowl, add all the prepared (i.e. the chopped) ingredients.
- Mix together.
- Spread a thin layer of mayo on the top and garnish with some peas, olives, and parsley.
- Refrigerate & serve cold! (It doesn’t taste as good if it’s warm.)