Smoked herring salad with pickled onions and new potatoes

Delicious Salad with Smoked Herring, Pickled Onions, and New Potatoes

When it comes to salads, ingredient combinations can turn a simple dish into an unforgettable culinary experience. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a savory salad, brimming with flavors and textures, that combines smoked herring with pickled onions and new potatoes. This recipe is perfect for quick lunches, festive dinners, or even a picnic outdoors.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time (for potatoes): 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 400 g smoked herring
- 8 new potatoes (preferably small-sized)
- 1 carrot, grated
- 3 green onions
- 3 tablespoons pitted black olives
- 3 tablespoons soy oil or sunflower oil (for a lighter taste)
- 3 teaspoons French whole grain mustard
- 1/2 jar of finely chopped pickled onions
- 1 head of green lettuce
- 1 small red chili pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste (optional)

A Brief History

Smoked herring salad has deep roots in the culinary traditions of various cultures. Herring, a fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, has historically been an important source of protein, especially in coastal regions. Combining it with fresh and pickled vegetables has become a popular method for creating nutritious and flavorful salads that reflect the season.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
Thoroughly wash the new potatoes under cold running water to remove any impurities. Place them in a pot with cold water and a pinch of salt. Boil for 15 minutes or until they are slightly tender but not overcooked. Once boiled, drain and let them cool slightly, then cut them in halves or quarters, depending on their size.

Step 2: Making the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix the sunflower oil (or another light oil), balsamic vinegar, and French whole grain mustard. This dressing will add a touch of acidity and balance the rich flavor of the smoked herring. If desired, you can also add a little salt, according to your taste.

Step 3: Chopping the Ingredients
Slice the smoked herring into thin pieces, chop the green onions into rings, and dice the red chili pepper into small cubes. Tear the green lettuce into large pieces to maintain its crunch. These fresh vegetables will add a pleasant texture to the salad.

Step 4: Assembling the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the boiled potatoes, smoked herring, grated carrot, green onions, black olives, and red chili pepper. Add the pickled onions and the dressing prepared earlier. Gently mix all the ingredients to avoid breaking the herring slices.

Step 5: Serving
On a platter, lay the green lettuce leaves as a bed for the herring salad. This detail will add an elegant touch to the presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors.

Helpful Tips

- Oil Mix: If you want a more complex flavor, try combining sunflower oil with a bit of extra virgin olive oil.
- Varied Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables to your liking, such as cherry tomatoes or diced cucumbers.
- Herring: If you can't find smoked herring, you can use other types of smoked fish, such as mackerel.
- Pickled Onions: If you don't have pickled onions, finely chopped red onion marinated in a bit of balsamic vinegar for 10 minutes can be an excellent alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of herring can I use?
You can use smoked herring or herring fillets in oil, depending on your preferences.

2. Can I make the salad a day in advance?
It's recommended to prepare the salad a few hours before serving, but don't wait too long, as fresh ingredients like lettuce can become limp.

3. Can I add other dressings?
Certainly! A classic vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing can provide a different note to the salad.

Ideal Pairings

This smoked herring salad pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing blonde beer. It can also be served alongside a vegetable tart or a cheese farinata for a complete meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Smoked herring is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. New potatoes provide fiber and vitamins, while fresh vegetables offer important antioxidants and nutrients. This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for a balanced lunch.

Personal Note

This smoked herring salad reminds me of meals spent with friends on summer evenings. Add a personal touch by including fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, which will enhance the flavors and bring a splash of freshness. Remember, cooking is an art form, so feel free to experiment and adapt the recipe to your taste!

Enjoy your meal!