Västerbotten cheese, often referred to as “the king of Swedish cheeses,” is known for its rich, nutty, and tangy flavor. Incorporating this iconic cheese into a salad creates a dish that’s both indulgent and balanced. A Västerbotten cheese salad is perfect as a starter, side dish, or light meal, offering a taste of Sweden’s culinary tradition.
Ingredients
For 4 servings, you’ll need:
- 100g (3.5 oz) Västerbotten cheese, grated or shaved
- 2 cups mixed salad greens, such as arugula, spinach, and frisée
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small apple, thinly sliced or diced
- ½ cup toasted walnuts (optional, for crunch)
- 8–10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp lingonberry jam (optional, for garnish)
For the dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the salad ingredients
- Wash and dry the salad greens.
- Slice the red onion, apple, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. If using walnuts, toast them in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant.
2. Make the dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Assemble the salad
- In a large bowl or serving platter, arrange the salad greens as the base.
- Top with the sliced apple, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Sprinkle the grated or shaved Västerbotten cheese evenly over the salad. Add the toasted walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
4. Dress and garnish
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Optional: Add a dollop or small drizzle of lingonberry jam on top for a Swedish touch.
5. Serve
- Serve the salad as a standalone dish or alongside grilled meats, fish, or a hearty soup.
Tips and Tricks
- Cheese substitute: If you can’t find Västerbotten cheese, aged Parmesan or Gruyère are good alternatives, but the unique flavor of Västerbotten is hard to replicate!
- Make ahead: You can prepare the ingredients in advance, but assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
- Lingonberry touch: For a Swedish twist, stir a small amount of lingonberry jam into the dressing for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Variations
Västerbotten and Beetroot Salad
Add roasted or pickled beets to the salad for a deeper flavor profile and a beautiful color contrast.
Creamy Dressing Variation
Replace the olive oil dressing with a creamy one made from crème fraîche, lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard.
Protein-Packed Salad
Include grilled chicken, smoked salmon, or hard-boiled eggs for a more filling meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Västerbotten cheese special?
Västerbotten cheese is aged for at least 14 months, giving it a complex, tangy, and slightly nutty flavor. It’s a Swedish delicacy often used in pies, soups, and salads.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to combine everything and add the dressing right before serving to keep the salad crisp and fresh.
What pairs well with Västerbotten cheese salad?
This salad pairs beautifully with Swedish classics like gravlax, rye bread, or a light soup. It’s also a great side dish for grilled or roasted meats.
Where can I find Västerbotten cheese?
Västerbotten cheese is available in specialty stores or online. If unavailable, aged hard cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino can be used as substitutes.
Västerbotten cheese salad is a delightful way to showcase the unique flavors of this beloved Swedish cheese. With its balance of fresh, tangy, and nutty notes, this salad is both simple to prepare and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a Scandinavian-inspired dinner or simply looking for a fresh and flavorful salad, this recipe is a must-try.
