Discover the delicious layers of Latvian cuisine with our Herring Salad (Siļķes Salāti) recipe. This vibrant salad features a delightful combination of pickled herring, tender potatoes, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Perfect for festive occasions or as a hearty side dish, Siļķes Salāti is known for its colorful presentation and rich flavors. Learn how to make this traditional Latvian dish with our easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients:

- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced

- 1 small beet, peeled and diced

- 1/2 cup pickled herring, chopped

- 1/2 cup mayonnaise

- 1 tablespoon sour cream

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- Chopped fresh dill (for garnish)

Instructions:

Cook the Vegetables:

  - Boil potatoes, carrots, and beet separately in salted water until tender. Drain and let cool.

Prepare the Herring:

  - Chop pickled herring into bite-sized pieces.

Layer the Salad:

  - In a clear serving dish, start by spreading a layer of diced potatoes. Season with a bit of salt and pepper.

  - Add a layer of diced carrots, followed by a layer of chopped herring.

Prepare the Dressing:

  - In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add More Layers:

  - Spread a layer of the dressing over the herring. Add a layer of diced beets on top, followed by another layer of the dressing.

Chill and Serve:

  - Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

  - Garnish with chopped fresh dill before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Siļķes Salāti as a festive and colorful addition to any meal!

Nutritional Values:

Potatoes (per 100g):

 - Calories: 77

 - Carbohydrates: 17.6g

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Fiber: 2.2g

 - Vitamin C: 19.7mg

 - Potassium: 425mg

Benefits:

 - Good source of potassium, which helps maintain heart and muscle function.

 - Rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.

 - Provides dietary fiber that aids in digestion and promotes satiety.

Carrots (per 100g):

 - Calories: 41

 - Carbohydrates: 9.6g

 - Protein: 0.9g

 - Fat: 0.2g

 - Fiber: 2.8g

 - Vitamin A: 835µg

 - Vitamin C: 5.9mg

Benefits:

 - Extremely high in vitamin A, which is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health.

 - Contains antioxidants like beta-carotene that help protect cells from damage.

Beets (per 100g):

 - Calories: 43

 - Carbohydrates: 9.6g

 - Protein: 1.6g

 - Fat: 0.2g

 - Fiber: 2.8g

 - Folate: 109µg

 - Iron: 0.8mg

Benefits:

 - High in folate, which supports cell function and helps prevent birth defects.

 - Contains antioxidants and nitrates that can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.

Pickled Herring (per 100g):

 - Calories: 233

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 25g

 - Fat: 14g

 - Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 1.5g

 - Vitamin D: 7.7µg

Benefits:

 - Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.

 - Excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

 - Contains vitamin D, which is important for bone health.

Mayonnaise (per 100g):

 - Calories: 680

 - Carbohydrates: 0.6g

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 74g

 - Cholesterol: 39mg

 Benefits:

 - Provides a rich, creamy texture to dishes, enhancing flavor and satisfaction.

 - Source of healthy fats when made with high-quality oils.

Sour Cream (per 100g):

 - Calories: 193

 - Carbohydrates: 4.6g

 - Protein: 2.6g

 - Fat: 19g

Benefits:

 - Adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture.

 - Provides some vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A and calcium.

Onion (per 100g):

 - Calories: 40

 - Carbohydrates: 9.3g

 - Protein: 1.1g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Fiber: 1.7g

 - Vitamin C: 7.4mg

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support overall health.

 - Provides dietary fiber that aids in digestion.

Dill (per 100g):

 - Calories: 43

 - Carbohydrates: 7.4g

 - Protein: 3.5g

 - Fat: 1.1g

 - Vitamin C: 85mg

 - Vitamin A: 4,600 IU

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins and antioxidants that support immune health and digestion.

 - Provides a fresh flavor and aids in digestion.