Swedish Beetroot Salad – Rödbetssallad Recipe

Introduction

Swedish Beetroot Salad, or Rödbetssallad, is a vibrant and creamy side dish that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. Made with pickled beets, crisp apple, and a smooth mayonnaise base, it’s a traditional favorite that complements many meals.

Ingredients

• 500 g pickled beets (17.6 oz)
• ½ red apple
• 1 small red onion
• 150 g mayonnaise (5.3 oz)
• 100 g crème fraîche or sour cream (3.5 oz)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 40 g walnuts, chopped (optional)
• ½ tsp mustard powder or Dijon mustard
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of black pepper
• 1 tbsp pickled beet juice (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Core and peel half of the red apple, then dice it into small pieces.
2. Step 2: Drain the liquid from the pickled beets, reserving about a tablespoon of the juice if you want to add extra color and flavor later.
3. Step 3: Dice the pickled beets into small cubes, similar in size to the apple.
4. Step 4: Finely chop the small red onion.
5. Step 5: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise and crème fraîche or sour cream. Mix in the sugar, salt, black pepper, and mustard powder until smooth.
6. Step 6: Add the diced beets, apple, and chopped onion to the mayonnaise mixture. Stir to combine.
7. Step 7: Fold in the chopped walnuts if using, mixing gently until everything is well incorporated.
8. Step 8: For a deeper color and more tang, stir in the reserved tablespoon of beet juice.

Tips & Variations

• For a dairy-free option, substitute crème fraîche with a plant-based sour cream.
• Add a splash of lemon juice if you prefer a brighter, fresher flavor.
• Toast the walnuts lightly to enhance their crunch and nuttiness.
• Adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of your pickled beets and apple.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as the dressing may settle. This salad is best enjoyed chilled but can be served at room temperature if preferred.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh beets instead of pickled beets?

You can use cooked fresh beets, but the salad will lack the characteristic tang of pickled beets. To mimic that flavor, add a splash of vinegar or some pickling liquid.

Is this salad suitable for making ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld. Prepare it a few hours in advance or the day before and keep it chilled until serving.