Pickled Herring With Sour Cream & Cucumber
A tangy and creamy appetizer featuring pickled herring combined with sour cream and fresh cucumber slices, perfect for seafood lovers and those seeking a flavorful, chilled dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place herring, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and celery seed in a bowl and toss together.
- Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and scoop out the seed, then cut it in half lengthwise again to form long strips.
- Cut the cucumber strips into 1/4 inch thick slices and add to the herring mixture.
- Toss well and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh dill or chives to the herring mixture. If you can't find pickled herring in wine, smoked herring could work as a substitute, but the flavor will differ. The addition of a squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the dish's brightness. For a creamy twist, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled as an appetizer or light lunch, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for added zest. This dish pairs beautifully with rye bread or crispy crackers. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside boiled potatoes or a fresh salad. Explore more vegetarian recipes for a variety of accompaniments.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. Avoid freezing, as the texture of herring and cucumber may not hold up well after thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pickled Herring With Sour Cream & Cucumber contains roughly 46 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 use fresh herring instead of pickled?
Using fresh herring would require you to brine or pickle it yourself, as the recipe is designed for pickled herring, which has a distinct flavor. If you're looking for a less intense flavor, try marinating fresh herring in vinegar and spices for a few hours before using.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the herring mixture. You could also serve it with a spicy mustard on the side, which complements the flavors well.
What can I serve with pickled herring?
Pickled herring is great with a variety of sides. Try serving it with boiled potatoes, a green salad, or hearty rye bread. For a unique twist, pair it with pickled vegetables or a tangy coleslaw to balance the flavors.
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).