• Quick and easy to assemble • Perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and fresh flavors • Ideal for entertaining and special occasions • No cooking required • Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• 1 jar pickled herring, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces • 1 baguette or crisp rye bread, sliced into small rounds • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened • 2 tablespoons sour cream • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely minced • 1 tablespoon capers, drained • Fresh dill sprigs for garnish • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
Slice the baguette into thin rounds and lightly toast if desired. Allow to cool completely.
In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and lemon juice until smooth.
Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each bread slice.
Place a piece of pickled herring on top of each slice.
Sprinkle with minced red onion and capers.
Garnish with a small sprig of fresh dill and a light sprinkle of black pepper.
Arrange on a serving platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Substitute cream cheese with herbed goat cheese for a tangier base. • Add thin slices of cucumber for extra freshness and crunch. • Use pumpernickel bread for a deeper, richer flavor. • Top with a small dollop of horseradish sauce for added heat. • Sprinkle with finely chopped hard-boiled egg for a traditional touch.
Storage/Reheating
Store assembled canapés in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, covered tightly to prevent drying out. For best texture, assemble shortly before serving.
If preparing in advance, store the bread and toppings separately and assemble just before serving to keep the base crisp.
These canapés are served cold and should not be reheated.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results assemble them within a few hours of serving.
What type of pickled herring works best?
Classic vinegar-based pickled herring works well, but cream-based varieties can also be used.
Can I use crackers instead of bread?
Yes, sturdy crackers make an excellent substitute.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Spread a slightly thicker layer of cream cheese mixture to create a barrier between the bread and herring.
Can I freeze pickled herring canapés?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture will change significantly.
Are these canapés very strong in flavor?
They have a bold, tangy taste, but the creamy spread balances the intensity.
What can I serve alongside these?
They pair well with other seafood appetizers, cheeses, and sparkling beverages.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives.
How long does opened pickled herring last?
Once opened, keep it refrigerated and use within 5–7 days.
Can I add fresh herbs besides dill?
Yes, parsley or chives can complement the flavor nicely.
Conclusion
Pickled Herring Canapés are a simple yet sophisticated appetizer that combines classic flavors with effortless preparation. With their tangy fish, creamy base, and fresh garnishes, they’re perfect for entertaining or adding a refined touch to your table. Easy to customize and quick to assemble, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress your guests.
These Pickled Herring Canapés are elegant, bite-sized seafood appetizers featuring tangy pickled herring layered over crisp bread with a creamy lemon spread, capers, and fresh dill. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cocktail parties, or festive brunches, this easy no-cook canapé recipe delivers bold Scandinavian-inspired flavor with minimal effort.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:5 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:12–16 canapés
Category:Appetizer
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:Northern European
Ingredients
1 jar pickled herring, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
1 baguette or crisp rye bread, sliced into small rounds
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons red onion, finely minced
1 tablespoon capers, drained
Fresh dill sprigs for garnish
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Slice the baguette into thin rounds and lightly toast if desired. Allow to cool completely.In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and lemon juice until smooth.Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each bread slice.Place a piece of pickled herring on top of each slice.Sprinkle with minced red onion and capers.Garnish with a small sprig of fresh dill and a light sprinkle of black pepper.Arrange on a serving platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Assemble shortly before serving to keep the bread crisp.A slightly thicker cream cheese layer helps prevent sogginess.Pumpernickel or sturdy crackers can be substituted for variety.Cream-based pickled herring varieties also work well.For extra flavor, add a small dollop of horseradish sauce.
