Homestyle Potato Salad with Herring Recipe

Potato Salad with Herring is a classic dish that brings together tender potatoes, marinated or pickled herring, onions, and a creamy dressing for a well-balanced and satisfying meal. It is a popular recipe in European countries such as Germany, Poland, and across Scandinavia, where herring plays an important role in traditional cuisine. This salad is perfect for family gatherings, festive spreads, or even as a refreshing weeknight dinner. The combination of flavors is rich, tangy, and comforting, making it a recipe that appeals to anyone looking for something hearty yet refreshing.

The best part about this potato salad is its versatility. It can be served as a main dish, a side dish, or part of a larger buffet. It also tastes even better after resting in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead option. Whether you are new to cooking with herring or already enjoy this flavorful fish, this salad is a reliable way to bring variety and nutrition to your table.

Why You’ll Love This

• Balanced flavors: The saltiness of herring pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing and soft potatoes, creating a dish that feels complete and satisfying.
• Nutritious choice: Potatoes provide fiber and energy, while herring is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making this salad as wholesome as it is delicious.
• Simple preparation: With just a few basic steps—boiling potatoes, mixing a dressing, and tossing the ingredients—you can prepare this dish without complicated techniques.
• Perfect for any occasion: It works equally well for casual meals, holiday spreads, or picnic menus, giving you a versatile recipe to keep on hand.
• Make-ahead friendly: The flavors continue to develop in the refrigerator, so preparing it in advance is not only convenient but also enhances the taste.

Ingredients Needed

To prepare a flavorful and authentic potato salad with herring, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Potatoes (2 lbs / 900 g): Waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they stay firm after boiling and don’t turn mushy.
• Herring fillets (8 oz / 225 g): Pickled or marinated herring works best for this salad. Drain them well and cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Red onion (1 medium): Adds a sharp contrast to the creamy dressing and balances the richness of the herring.
• Pickles or gherkins (2 medium): Finely chopped, they bring a tangy crunch that complements the potatoes.
• Mayonnaise (3 tbsp): Provides creaminess and binds the salad together. You can use light mayo if preferred.
• Sour cream (2 tbsp): Adds a slightly tangy and smooth texture to the dressing.
• Dijon mustard (1 tbsp): Gives depth and enhances the flavor of both the potatoes and the herring.
• Pickle juice or white vinegar (2 tbsp): Provides acidity that balances out the creaminess of the dressing.
• Chives or green onions (2 tbsp, chopped): Fresh herbs for garnish and an added touch of freshness.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Seasoning to adjust the overall flavor.
• Optional additions: Fresh dill for garnish, and sliced boiled eggs for extra protein and a traditional touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the potatoes

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot.
2. Cover with cold water and add 1 teaspoon of salt.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork but not falling apart.
4. Drain and let the potatoes cool slightly. Peel them if preferred, then cut them into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Prepare the herring and vegetables

1. Drain the herring fillets and cut them into small, even pieces.
2. Thinly slice the red onion for a crisp bite.
3. Chop the pickles or gherkins into fine cubes for tangy crunch.

Step 3: Make the dressing

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and pickle juice (or vinegar).
2. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the potato cubes, herring pieces, onion slices, and chopped pickles.
2. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture.
3. Gently toss the ingredients until the potatoes and herring are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 5: Chill and serve

1. Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid.
2. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
3. Before serving, sprinkle chopped chives or dill over the top. Add boiled egg slices if using.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with rye bread or dark whole-grain bread.
• Add boiled eggs for extra protein.
• Serve as part of a buffet spread with other salads and pickled vegetables.

Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Not recommended for freezing as the potatoes and mayonnaise-based dressing do not thaw well.

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Homestyle Potato Salad with Herring Recipe

Author: Chef Natalia Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Side Dishes Recipe Keys: Main

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 25 mins Total Time 1 hr 45 mins

Servings: 4

Description

This Potato Salad with Herring is a classic European-inspired dish made with tender potatoes, marinated herring, onions, and a creamy dressing. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family meals, festive gatherings, or as a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs potatoes (waxy, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
• 8 oz pickled or marinated herring fillets, drained and chopped
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 pickles (or gherkins)
• 3 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sour cream
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp pickle juice (or white vinegar)
• 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh dill for garnish, boiled eggs (sliced)

Instructions

1. Wash potatoes and place them in a pot of salted water. Boil for 20–25 minutes until tender. Drain, cool slightly, peel if desired, and cut into cubes.
2. Slice the red onion, chop the pickles, and cut the herring fillets into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and pickle juice. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Combine potatoes, herring, onion, and pickles in a large mixing bowl. Add the dressing and toss gently until coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh chives, dill, or sliced boiled eggs if desired.

Keywords: potato salad with herring, herring recipes, German potato salad, Scandinavian potato salad,