Danish Pickled Herring and Potato Salad
Sildesalat
A vibrant and flavorful salad featuring tender boiled potatoes, tangy pickled herring, crisp apple, and sharp red onion, all brought together with a creamy dill-infused dressing. This dish is a staple at Danish gatherings and offers a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes.

๐ง Ingredients
- 500 g Waxy potatoes(like Yukon Gold, boiled and diced)
- 200 g Pickled herring fillets(drained and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 large Tart apple(like Granny Smith, diced)
- 0.5 medium Red onion(finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill(finely chopped)
- 100 ml Sour cream(full-fat)
- 50 ml Mayonnaise(traditional)
- 1 tbsp White wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 0.25 tsp Salt(to taste)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Boil the potatoes until tender. Drain, cool slightly, and dice into uniform cubes. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- 2
Add the diced pickled herring, diced apple, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh dill to the bowl with the potatoes.
- 3
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- 4
Pour the dressing over the herring and potato mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, which can break down the potatoes and herring.
- 5
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โUsing waxy potatoes is crucial as they hold their shape better when boiled and mixed into a salad.
- โAdjust the amount of dill and vinegar to your personal preference.
- โThis salad can be made a few hours ahead of time, making it perfect for potlucks or gatherings.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced cooked beetroot for a splash of color and earthy sweetness.
- Include chopped dill pickles for an extra tangy crunch.
- A tablespoon of capers can add a briny, salty note.