Red Herring

Herring salad is not loved by everyone, but over the years the Danish-style herring from Olson’s Delicatessen has changed many people’s minds about pickled fish salads. Olson’s salad is sweet-tasting and very pink, almost red, because beets are added along with apples, macaroni bits, mayonnaise and, of course, pickled herring. Herring salad is a terrific party appetizer served with rye crisp bread from Finland or pumpernickel, both of which are available at Olson’s. The salad is also an easy, colorful addition to holiday buffets.

Herring Salad: 1/2 pound, $2.49; 1 pound, $4.98 at Olson’s Delicatessen & Gift Shop, 5660 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles (323) 938-0742.