Whitefish salad is where old-world technique meets modern culinary curiosity. Inspired by the smoked fish traditions of Jewish delis and Scandinavian cold spreads, this creamy, smoky, and slightly briny dish delivers pure comfort with an elegant twist. Whether spread on a bagel, tucked into crisp lettuce cups or served alongside fresh veggies, it’s a protein-packed classic that deserves a spot in your rotation.
Looking for a way to turn it into a full meal? Pair it with Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo for a bold, spice-laced contrast, or go indulgent with a side of Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu. The delicate flakiness of the fish balances the richness of both, making it an unexpected but welcome addition to heartier fare.
The secret to the best whitefish salad? It’s all about texture and layering flavors. Opt for high-quality smoked whitefish, fold in a touch of lemon for brightness, and don’t be shy with the fresh herbs—dill and chives bring everything to life.
A hint of horseradish or mustard adds depth without overpowering, while a silky mix of mayo and sour cream ties it all together. Once you’ve mastered the base, experiment with add-ins like capers, pickled onions, or even a hint of wasabi for a global twist.
Flavor Bomb Alert!
- A Lesson from New York Delis – I first fell for whitefish salad at a tiny Jewish deli in Manhattan, where the creamy, smoky spread was piled high on rye toast. This homemade version captures that nostalgia while letting me tweak the flavors to my liking.
- The Unexpected Dinner Companion – You wouldn’t think whitefish salad would work with gumbo, but trust me, the cool, creamy contrast against the heat is a game-changer. It’s also fantastic with Slow Cooker Chicken Cordon Bleu for a balance of smoky and savory.
- Light Yet Satisfying – This dish is loaded with protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal choice for a filling yet light meal. It’s great for those days when you want something indulgent but still nutrient-packed.
- A Blank Canvas for Flavor – I’ve experimented with everything from harissa to miso paste in this recipe, and the results are always exciting. Play around with global flavors to give your whitefish salad a unique spin.
- Meal Prep Gold – Make a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have an easy, no-cook protein option ready to go all week. It’s perfect for quick lunches, impromptu gatherings, or those moments when you just need a bite of something rich and satisfying.
Whitefish Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Cutting board
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Serving spoon
- Knife
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh minced dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ⅓ cup lowfat sour cream
- ½ cup celery ribs, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh minced chives
Instructions
- Peel the skin off the smoked whitefish, then use a fork to pull the meat outward from the center line, following the grain to avoid small bones.
- Place the flaked meat in a bowl, removing any remaining bones.
- Shred it further with a fork and fingers.
- Mix in mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped celery, dill, and chives.
- Blend well, then season with black pepper and fresh lemon juice to taste.
- Adjust salt if needed.
- Serve on bagels, crackers, or rye bread, or use it as a filling for tomatoes or avocados.
Notes
- Smoked whitefish is naturally salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
- Fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors, and whole lemon’s juice is recommended.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 298kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fibre | 0.4g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Protein | 21g |
| Cholesterol | 6g |
Variations To Help You Customise This Dish!
- Spicy Kick – Add a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or finely diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Herb Infusion – Swap dill and chives for parsley, tarragon, or basil to change the flavor profile.
- Creamy & Tangy – Mix in a little Greek yogurt instead of some mayonnaise for a tangier, lighter version.
- Crunchy Twist – Stir in finely chopped red onions, capers, or even diced pickles for extra texture.
- Smoky Depth – Enhance the smokiness with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke.
