Classical Latvian Salad
A delicate Latvian salad featuring fresh lettuce, dill, green onions, and a creamy dressing, perfect for light meals or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sour cream with a pinch of sugar, salt to taste, lemon juice (if using), chopped green onions or chives, and chopped dill weed.
- Place two-thirds of the lettuce in a salad bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the lettuce and gently mix to coat.
- Refrigerate for 15 minutes to blend flavors.
- Add the remaining one-third of the lettuce and toss lightly.
- Serve immediately, optionally adding sliced cucumber and radishes for color.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dressing, consider using a blend of sour cream and Greek yogurt. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute the cream with a low-fat yogurt. Fresh herbs are key, so use the freshest dill and chives you can find. Adding a bit of dill or chives at the end enhances flavor. This salad pairs beautifully with Almond Flavored Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or fish, and it can also be served alongside hearty vegetarian recipes for a balanced meal. For added color and texture, consider garnishing with sliced cucumber and radishes. It also pairs well with Louise'S Meaty Dressing for a more robust flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The lettuce will wilt over time, so it's best to keep the dressing separate until serving. If you need to reheat, consider using the microwave for a few seconds, but be mindful not to heat the salad, as it is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Classical Latvian Salad contains roughly 41 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1465mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables in advance. However, it's best to combine the dressing with the lettuce just before serving to maintain the lettuce's crispness. Refrigerate the dressing separately for up to 2 days to preserve freshness.
What can I substitute for cream in the dressing?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt. This will give you a similar creamy texture while reducing calories. You can also use a mix of sour cream and mayonnaise for added richness.
Is it possible to add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, grated carrots, or even cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. These additions will enhance the visual appeal and add more crunch, making the salad even more delightful.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).