Herring for the Holidays: Festive Herring Recipes

Holidays bring with them an air of celebration, filled with family, friends, and food. For those looking to elevate their gatherings with unique, savory bites, herring is a timeless choice. Not only does it bring depth and flavor to any dish, but it also has a special place in global holiday traditions. Below are some delightful herring recipes to inspire your holiday spread.

Herring Smørrebrød

Nothing says Scandinavian celebration quite like Smørrebrød. In Denmark, this traditional open-faced sandwich is enjoyed during the holidays and is often made with pickled herring on rye bread. With a garnish of dill and a touch of mustard, these sandwiches are brimming with flavor. For an added authentic touch, serve with a shot of aquavit, and toast to the season as the Danes do: "Time for the herring to swim!"

Pro Tip: Serve the smørrebrød on a festive wooden board with other small bites, like hard-boiled eggs and sliced cucumbers, for a visually appealing and delicious spread.

Herring & Dill Potato Salad

Nothing feels more comforting than a rich potato salad—and this version, made with herring and dill, takes it up a notch. Toss tender baby potatoes with Acme Dill Herring, hard-boiled eggs, and a zesty lemon-dijon vinaigrette for a dish that’s packed with holiday flavors. Top with crispy shallots and fresh dill for an extra pop.

Tip for Success: For a delightful presentation, serve in a large white bowl, garnished with dill sprigs to bring out those holiday colors. It’s an effortless yet stunning addition to the table.

Crispy Baby Potatoes with Pickled Herring and Dill

Looking for a hearty appetizer that balances tradition with a twist? This dish features oven-baked baby potatoes, golden and crisp, topped with Acme’s pickled herring. The sweetness of the herring pairs perfectly with the earthy, crispy potatoes, making this a satisfying bite.

Holiday Hosting Hack: Prepare the potatoes ahead of time, then pop them in the oven to warm up just before serving. Top with your herring, then garnish with fresh dill and serve on a rustic board or platter.

Deviled Eggs with Chopped Pickled Herring

Add a savory twist to the classic deviled egg by mixing in chopped pickled herring. The unique flavor of herring complements the creamy filling and makes for a conversation-worthy holiday bite. A delightful surprise for guests.

Perfect Pairing: Arrange the deviled eggs on a plate lined with fresh greens or a dusting of paprika for an added holiday touch. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and chill, allowing you to enjoy the festivities, too.

Pickled Herring Canapés with Goat Cheese and Green Apple

For a harmonious blend of salty, sour, and sweet, these canapés hit every flavor note. The creamy goat cheese, crisp green apple, and pickled herring create a memorable bite that’s sophisticated and festive.

Serving Tip: For a polished presentation, serve these on a beautiful wooden or slate board, garnished with extra apple slices or herbs. They’re perfect for mingling guests looking for a light, refreshing snack.

Holiday Hosting Tips Beyond the Recipes

Mix It Up: When planning your menu, consider a variety of flavors and textures. Pairing salty, smoked bites like herring and smoked salmon with fresh vegetables or creamy dips creates a balanced, satisfying experience.

Create a Festive Display: Presentation goes a long way. Use boards, tiered trays, and natural greenery like sprigs of rosemary to bring a cozy, seasonal touch to your serving space.

Make-Ahead Magic: The best hosts are relaxed hosts. Opt for make-ahead recipes, especially with items like herring, that allow the flavors to meld over time, making them even better after a brief rest.

Bring in Tradition: Whether it’s a Scandinavian-inspired toast or a special family recipe, weaving in meaningful traditions makes any gathering feel extra special.

Time to Bring Herring to your Holiday Table

As you plan for the holidays, consider the timeless charm and unique flavors that herring brings to the table. With these recipes and hosting tips, you’ll have everything you need for a season full of flavor, festivity, and unforgettable gatherings.