Nordic Shrimp Salad Recipe
If you’ve ever longed for a taste of Scandinavia that’s elegant, refreshing, and bursting with bright flavor, then Nordic Shrimp Salad is about to become your new obsession. This creamy yet delicate dish stars tiny, sweet-cold water shrimp tossed with a zesty lemon-dill dressing, and each bite manages to feel both luxurious and light. Whether piled high on crisp lettuce or spooned onto a slab of toasted rye, the Nordic Shrimp Salad offers an unbeatable balance of tender seafood, fresh herbs, and that irresistible tang. It’s quick to whip up, perfect for a summer lunch, and feels like a special occasion—even on an ordinary afternoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad is how a handful of simple, well-chosen ingredients create a dish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. Each one adds a distinct layer of flavor, freshness, or crunch, giving our Nordic Shrimp Salad its unmistakable charm.
- Nordic shrimp: Tiny, sweet, pre-cooked and peeled shrimp are essential for their juicy tenderness and signature briny flavor.
- Mayonnaise: Gives the salad its creamy, luscious base—use a good-quality mayo for the best flavor.
- Sour cream or crème fraîche: Adds classic Scandinavian tang and an extra silky texture to the dressing.
- Fresh lemon juice: Lifts the salad with a bright, zesty note that cuts through the richness perfectly.
- Lemon zest: Enhances the citrusy aroma and delivers that unmistakable fresh flavor.
- Chopped fresh dill: Essential for its classic Nordic, grassy brightness that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
- Chopped fresh chives: Adds gentle oniony flavor and a pop of vibrant green color.
- Dijon mustard: Brings subtle heat and depth, tying the creamy dressing together.
- Salt and black pepper: To season everything perfectly—don’t be shy with black pepper for a gentle kick.
- Crisp lettuce leaves or toasted rye bread: Your choice for serving—lettuce for freshness, rye for hearty Nordic vibes.
- Extra dill and lemon wedges (optional): For garnish, these add a bright, inviting touch at the table.
How to Make Nordic Shrimp Salad
Step 1: Mix the Dressing
Start by grabbing a medium bowl and whisking together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or crème fraîche), lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, chives, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. You want the dressing to become creamy, smooth, and flecked with those gorgeous herbs. This base is what transforms the simple shrimp into a crave-worthy Nordic Shrimp Salad.
Step 2: Fold in the Shrimp
Once your dressing is silky and seasoned, gently fold in the Nordic shrimp. Be tender here—the little shrimp are delicate, and you want them to stay whole and plump. Make sure every shrimp gets a coating of the herby, tangy sauce. This step is where all the magic happens, and suddenly, your kitchen smells like a Scandinavian bistro.
Step 3: Chill to Perfection
Cover the bowl and slide it into the fridge for at least 15 to 30 minutes. This short rest lets all the flavors mingle and develop, so every bite of your Nordic Shrimp Salad will taste fresh and harmonious. If you’re short on time, you can skip the chilling—but even a brief rest brings out more complexity.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
When you’re ready to serve, spoon the chilled salad over crisp lettuce leaves, into lettuce cups, or pile it onto slices of toasted rye or sourdough for an open-faced sandwich. Add extra dill and lemon wedges as garnish, and get ready for rave reviews. This moment—when you take that first bite—is what Nordic Shrimp Salad is all about: ultimate freshness and flavor, no matter the season.
How to Serve Nordic Shrimp Salad
Garnishes
No Nordic Shrimp Salad is truly complete without a final flourish of fresh dill and a few lemon wedges. The herb brings another hit of grassy freshness, while the lemon lets everyone customize their own zing. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a lovely crunch, and for a pop of color, a light dusting of paprika or a few capers never hurt either.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with simple sides. Try serving it alongside a cucumber and radish salad tossed in vinegar, or crisp roasted baby potatoes for something heartier. If you’re embracing the full Nordic spirit, a basket of dark rye bread, crispbreads, or even pickled beets make fantastic accompaniments that round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t hesitate to have a little fun with your presentation. Portion the Nordic Shrimp Salad into endive boats for easy handheld bites at a party. Top mini toasts for elegant hors d’oeuvres, or scoop it into avocado halves for a fresh twist. For a brunch spread, layer it in glass jars with cucumber ribbons and a little arugula—guests will love the color and creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Nordic Shrimp Salad is at its peak on the day it’s made, when the shrimp are plump and the herbs are green. However, if you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. The salad will stay fresh and delicious for up to 24 hours—just be aware that the herbs and lemon may mellow slightly over time.
Freezing
Unfortunately, this salad isn’t a good candidate for freezing. The creamy dressing can separate, and the tender shrimp may become spongy once thawed. For the best Nordic Shrimp Salad experience, prepare only as much as you’ll enjoy within a day or so.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook, chilled salad, reheating isn’t required (and really isn’t recommended!). Nordic Shrimp Salad is always best served cold, straight from the fridge. If it’s been sitting out, simply give it a gentle stir and serve.
FAQs
Can I use larger shrimp instead of Nordic shrimp?
You can, but the magic of Nordic Shrimp Salad is in the bite-sized, sweet shrimp typical of Scandinavian waters. If substituting, try to use the smallest shrimp you can find, and cut them into bite-size pieces for the same tender experience.
Is it possible to make this salad dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the sour cream or crème fraîche for a plant-based alternative or simply increase the mayo. Just keep a little lemon juice and fresh herbs for that vibrant flavor.
Can I add extra veggies for crunch?
Definitely—finely chopped celery or red onion are classic add-ins. They bring color, freshness, and a little extra texture to every bite. Just keep them finely diced so the salad remains elegant and balanced.
What type Salad
Traditional Scandinavian rye or dark sourdough add wonderful flavor and hold up well to the creamy salad. Toast the bread lightly for a little crunch, which contrasts perfectly with the soft shrimp and zesty dressing.
How can I tell if my shrimp are authentic Nordic shrimp?
Look for “cold-water” or “Nordic” shrimp in the seafood section—these will be small (usually less than an inch long), pink, and sweet. If in doubt, ask your fishmonger for advice; the unique flavor and texture of Nordic shrimp make all the difference in this salad.
Final Thoughts
Nordic Shrimp Salad is proof that simplicity, when done right, can be utterly extraordinary. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or treating yourself to something special, you’ll love how easily it comes together and the fresh, bright flavors in every spoonful. I can’t wait for you to try it—and I promise, it might just become your new go-to summer (or anytime) salad.
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Nordic Shrimp Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Nordic Shrimp Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that showcases the delicate sweetness of Nordic shrimp. Creamy, tangy, and herbaceous, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or as an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound small cooked Nordic shrimp (peeled)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or crème fraîche
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Serving Suggestions:
- Crisp lettuce leaves or toasted rye bread (for serving)
- Optional garnish: extra dill, lemon wedges
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or crème fraîche), lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, chives, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Serve chilled over crisp lettuce leaves, in lettuce cups, or spooned onto toasted rye or sourdough bread for an open-faced sandwich.
Gently fold in the Nordic shrimp until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15–30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
Garnish with extra dill and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- For extra texture, add finely chopped celery or red onion.
- This salad is best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Use true Nordic shrimp (small, sweet cold-water shrimp) for the authentic flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Scandinavian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
