This classic Scandinavian dish balances the briny richness of pickled herrings with the creamy sweetness of a mayonnaise and sour cream dressing. The addition of crisp, tart apples provides a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness, while the sweet-and-sour marinade adds depth and complexity. It is a perfect appetizer or light lunch, offering a vibrant mix of textures and flavors. Ideal for summer gatherings or as a sophisticated starter, this salad showcases simple ingredients transformed into a memorable meal. Serve chilled for the best experience.
Scandinavian Fish Salad
Description
This classic Scandinavian dish balances the briny richness of pickled herrings with the creamy sweetness of a mayonnaise and sour cream dressing. The addition of crisp, tart apples provides a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness, while the sweet-and-sour marinade adds depth and complexity. It is a perfect appetizer or light lunch, offering a vibrant mix of textures and flavors. Ideal for summer gatherings or as a sophisticated starter, this salad showcases simple ingredients transformed into a memorable meal. Serve chilled for the best experience.Ingredients
Directions
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In a small saucepan, combine the malt vinegar and water.
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Add the sugar and pickling spice to the vinegar mixture.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
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Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
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Strain the marinade through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the spices.
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Cut the cleaned herring fillets into 1/2-inch wide strips.
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Place the herring strips in a shallow dish.
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Pour the cooled marinade over the herring, ensuring all pieces are submerged.
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Cover the dish and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to marinate.
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Drain the herring strips thoroughly, discarding the marinade.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sliced onion.
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Cut the apples into quarters, remove the cores, and slice them thinly without peeling.
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Add the sliced apples and drained herring to the dressing mixture.
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Gently fold the ingredients together until the herring and apples are evenly coated.
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Arrange the red leaf lettuce leaves on four serving plates.
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Spoon the herring mixture onto the lettuce leaves.
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Garnish with green onion daisies and fresh dill sprigs.
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Serve immediately while chilled.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 50.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.3mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 11.4g4%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 11.2g
- Protein 0.0g0%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best flavor, marinate the herring overnight. If short on time, a minimum of 2 hours is recommended.
Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to prevent them from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.
This salad is best served cold and should be kept refrigerated until serving time.
If you prefer a milder taste, rinse the herring briefly after draining the marinade.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The apples may brown slightly; adding a squeeze of lemon juice can help prevent this.
