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Creamy Swedish laxröra salmon salad in a ceramic bowl on a light wooden table with dill and crispbread.
Erik Lundström

Laxröra – a creamy ode to salmon and Swedish tradition

Laxröra is a classic Swedish creamy salmon salad made with flaked smoked salmon, crème fraîche, mayo, dill, and a little shallot for bite. It’s quick to mix, best after a short chill, and perfect on rye bread, crispbread, crackers, or baked potatoes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Chill time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Swedish
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

  • 7 oz (200 g) Hot‑smoked salmon, flaked
  • oz (100 g) Cold‑smoked salmon or gravlax, finely diced
  • cup (150 ml) Crème fraîche or sour cream
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) Mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Finely minced shallot or red onion
  • 2 tbsp Finely chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tbsp Freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp Prepared horseradish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the fish. Remove any skin or bones from the hot‑smoked salmon and flake it into a mixing bowl. Finely dice the cold‑smoked salmon or gravlax so that it disperses evenly.
  2. Mix the base. Add the crème fraîche (or sour cream), mayonnaise, minced shallot, chopped dill and lemon juice to the bowl. If using horseradish, stir it in as well.
  3. Combine gently. Using a fork or spatula, fold the ingredients together just until combined. The goal is to keep some chunks of salmon for texture while ensuring the creamy base envelops every bite.
  4. Season. Taste and add a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Remember that smoked and cured salmon are already salty, so start with less and adjust as needed.
  5. Chill. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld. You can prepare laxröra up to a day in advance; the flavour improves with time.
  6. Serve. Spoon the spread onto crispbread, toast, boiled potatoes or crisp lettuce leaves. Garnish with extra dill, a lemon wedge or a spoonful of fish roe.

Notes

  • Variation: For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. If you prefer a richer taste, swap in a few tablespoons of cream cheese.
  • Storage: Laxröra keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because it contains cured and smoked fish, keep it chilled until serving and avoid leaving it out for extended periods.
  • Food safety: If you use home‑cured salmon, freeze it beforehand and always follow good hygiene.