If you adore fresh, ocean-kissed flavors and crave something light yet undeniably satisfying, the Nordic Shrimp Salad Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. This vibrant Scandinavian classic brings together tender, perfectly cooked Nordic shrimp with a luscious blend of creamy mayonnaise, tangy sour cream or crème fraîche, and bright, herbaceous notes from dill and chives. It’s a dish that’s as simple as it is elegant, perfect for warm afternoons or as a charming starter when you want to impress without fuss. Every bite bursts with freshness and that unmistakable taste of the Nordic seas, wrapped in a velvety dressing that’s as comforting as it is delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating a sensational Nordic Shrimp Salad Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the sweetness of the shrimp, the creamy tang of the dressing, or the fresh brightness of the herbs that elevate the dish to something truly special.
- 1 pound small cooked Nordic shrimp: The star of the dish, offering delicate sweetness and a tender texture.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Provides a rich, creamy base that binds everything together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or crème fraîche: Adds a subtle tang and smoothness to balance the mayonnaise.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A fresh, zesty kick that brightens the entire salad.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives a little depth and mild spice to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill: Brings that classic Nordic herbal freshness.
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives: Adds a gentle oniony note without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season perfectly and enhance all the flavors.
- Optional: finely chopped red onion or cucumber: For extra crunch and refreshing texture.
- For serving – rye bread or crispbread: To enjoy as an open-faced sandwich or a crunchy base.
- Butter lettuce leaves: A fresh, soft alternative to bread that lets the shrimp salad shine.
- Lemon wedges and extra dill for garnish: Optional finishing touches to brighten and beautify your plate.
How to Make Nordic Shrimp Salad Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dressing
Begin by whisking together mayonnaise, sour cream or crème fraîche, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dill, and chives in a medium bowl. This creamy, herb-infused dressing creates the perfect flavor base, blending richness with fresh, bright notes that will complement the sweet shrimp beautifully.
Step 2: Fold in the Shrimp
Gently fold the cooked Nordic shrimp into the dressing, taking care not to break the delicate shrimp. This step ensures every bite is coated but maintains the shrimp’s lovely texture and shape.
Step 3: Chill for Flavor
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld, so when you dig in, the salad tastes even more vibrant and harmonious.
Step 4: Prepare for Serving
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. At this point, you’re ready to assemble your open-faced sandwiches or arrange the shrimp salad lovingly on lettuce leaves.
How to Serve Nordic Shrimp Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra fresh dill over the top for that gorgeous green pop and a burst of herbal aroma. A few lemon wedges on the side invite guests to add a squeeze of tangy brightness, enhancing the natural flavors in the shrimp salad.
Side Dishes
Pair your Nordic Shrimp Salad with a crisp green salad or a bowl of chilled cucumber soup to keep the meal refreshing and light. Simple roasted potatoes or a rye bread basket also make excellent companions for a truly Nordic-inspired spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad inside endive leaves for bite-sized, elegant appetizers or spoon it onto cucumber rounds for a fresh, cooling snack. For a heartier twist, offer it as a topping on toasted rye bread, buttered generously to balance the cool creaminess and enhance the salad’s rich flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the Nordic Shrimp Salad covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to one day, but be mindful that the shrimp is best enjoyed as fresh as possible for optimal texture and flavor.
Freezing
Because of the creamy dressing and delicate shrimp, freezing this salad is not recommended, as it can negatively affect the texture and taste once thawed. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or within a day.
Reheating
This salad is intended to be served chilled and should not be reheated. To enjoy leftovers, simply serve cold straight from the fridge or allow it to come to a cool room temperature before plating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of shrimp for the Nordic Shrimp Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While Nordic shrimp are traditional and offer a delicate flavor, small cooked shrimp or baby shrimp work wonderfully and are more widely available. Just be sure they are fully cooked and well-drained before mixing.
Is there a lighter alternative to mayonnaise in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute part or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to lighten the dish. It still keeps the creamy texture but with fewer calories and a tangy kick that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dressing up to a day in advance and refrigerate it separately. When ready to serve, simply fold in the shrimp and let the salad chill to develop flavors.
What is the best bread to serve with Nordic Shrimp Salad Recipe?
Rye bread is the classic choice, offering a slightly dense, earthy note that pairs perfectly with the creamy shrimp salad. Crispbreads are also excellent for a crunchier texture and lighter bite.
Can I add vegetables to the salad?
Yes, finely chopped cucumber or red onion are popular additions, adding a refreshing crunch and a subtle sharpness that balances the creaminess and seafood sweetness wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Nordic Shrimp Salad Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those delightful dishes you can whip up quickly yet impress with its nuanced flavors and charming simplicity. Whether served as a light lunch, elegant appetizer, or part of a Scandinavian-inspired feast, it brings a touch of freshness and joy to the table. Once you try it, you’ll see why it has such a special place in the hearts of seafood lovers everywhere.
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Nordic Shrimp Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad, Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Nordic, Scandinavian
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A light and refreshing Nordic Shrimp Salad featuring small cooked Nordic shrimp tossed in a creamy dressing of mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon, and fresh herbs. Perfectly served chilled on rye bread, crispbread, or butter lettuce leaves, this Scandinavian appetizer blends delicate seafood flavors with bright citrus and fragrant dill.
Ingredients
Shrimp Salad
- 1 pound small cooked Nordic shrimp (or baby shrimp)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or crème fraîche
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: finely chopped red onion or cucumber for added texture
For Serving
- Rye bread or crispbread
- Butter lettuce leaves
- Lemon wedges
- Extra dill for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dill, and chives until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold in shrimp: Gently fold the cooked Nordic shrimp into the dressing, being careful not to break the shrimp to maintain their texture and appearance.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the shrimp salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the chilled shrimp salad on buttered rye bread or crispbread or spoon it over fresh butter lettuce leaves. Garnish with extra dill and a squeeze of lemon wedge for added brightness.
Notes
- Best enjoyed the day it’s made to maintain freshness and optimal texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Adding finely chopped red onion or cucumber can provide added crunch and texture if desired.
- Use fresh herbs for best flavor impact.
