Herring salad is a staple in many Northern and Eastern European cuisines, particularly in Scandinavia, Germany, and Eastern Europe. Traditionally prepared with pickled herring, potatoes, and simple seasonings, this dish was once made using essential ingredients like vinegar, salt, and onions. Over time, the recipe has evolved, and these days, olive oil is commonly added for a smoother texture and to complement the rich, briny flavor of the herring. This herring salad is refreshing and filling, perfect for a light meal or side dish.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients (Serves Four People)
- 200g pickled herring fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 medium potatoes, boiled and cubed
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced into rings
- 1 medium-sized beet (optional), boiled and diced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil (modern addition)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Boil the potatoes (and beet, if using) until tender, then drain and allow them to cool. Once cooled, cut the potatoes and beet into bite-sized cubes. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- Combine the pickled herring pieces, cubed potatoes, and diced beet (if using) in a large bowl.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion rings and sprinkle the chopped dill.
Step 3: Season and Dress
- Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the vinegar. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Toss the salad gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer the herring salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with extra dill and enjoy! This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Tips and Tricks
- For a more traditional version, omit the olive oil and use a simple vinegar dressing.
- Consider incorporating boiled beets into the salad to add more color and flavor.
- Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this herring salad as a side dish alongside rye bread or crispbread for a more filling meal. It pairs beautifully with other cold appetizers like smoked salmon or hard-boiled eggs.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Dietary Modifications
This recipe is naturally gluten-free for those following a gluten-free diet, primarily consisting of fish, potatoes, and vegetables. However, ensure any pickled herring you use is free from gluten-containing additives.
- You can prepare this recipe to make it dairy-free, as it contains no dairy products.
- To reduce sodium intake, look for low-sodium pickled herring and adjust the added salt to taste.
- For a vegan version, substitute the pickled herring with marinated tofu or a plant-based alternative while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
Storage Suggestions
Herring salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the freshest flavor, it’s best to enjoy the day it’s made. Freezing is not recommended, as the ingredients may lose texture and taste when thawed.
About Herring Salad
Herring salad, a traditional Northern and Eastern European dish, has long been a staple in Scandinavian and Baltic cuisines. Known for its rich yet simple flavor, this dish historically relied on preserved ingredients such as pickled herring, potatoes, and onions, allowing communities to make the most of their food supplies during harsh winters. Over the centuries, variations of the dish have evolved, with modern recipes adding ingredients like olive oil and fresh herbs to elevate the flavor.
Cultural Context
Herring has been a vital food source for centuries in Northern and Eastern Europe, particularly in Scandinavian countries, where preserving fish through pickling and salting was essential for long winters. The tradition of serving pickled herring salads dates back to when simple preserved ingredients like herring, onions, and potatoes were combined into satisfying and nutritious meals. This dish has become a classic staple in holiday feasts, such as Christmas and Midsummer, where it is commonly served as part of a smörgåsbord, a buffet of cold dishes.
While olive oil and fresh herbs like dill bring a modern touch to the recipe, the heart of this dish remains rooted in tradition. It continues to celebrate preserved herring, reflecting the resilience of local food cultures and their ability to adapt and flourish in modern times.
The Herring Salad and the Herring Sandwich are classic components of a traditional Swedish smörgåsbord, offering complementary flavors and textures that reflect the simplicity and richness of Scandinavian cuisine.
