Toast Skagen is a luxurious Swedish appetizer that perfectly embodies the country's love for seafood. Named after a fishing port in Denmark, this elegant dish consists of succulent prawns mixed with a creamy dressing, served atop crispy buttered toast and crowned with bright orange fish roe.

This sophisticated starter was created in 1956 by popular Swedish restaurateur Tore Wretman, who named it after the northernmost point of Denmark. It quickly became a symbol of fine Swedish dining and remains a popular choice at both restaurants and special occasions.

The secret to a perfect Toast Skagen lies in the balance of its components. The prawns should be fresh and hand-peeled, mixed with a delicate sauce of mayonnaise and sour cream, brightened with fresh dill and finely chopped red onion. The bread must be properly toasted and buttered to provide a sturdy, crispy base, while the fish roe adds both visual appeal and a delightful burst of briny flavor.

While the classic recipe remains the most beloved, modern variations might include different types of seafood like crayfish or lobster, or additional ingredients like avocado or cucumber for added freshness. Some chefs experiment with the bread base, using dark rye or sourdough for a more contemporary twist.

In Sweden, Toast Skagen is a staple at formal dinners, wedding receptions, and holiday celebrations. It's often served as a starter or as part of a smörgåsbord. The dish pairs beautifully with a glass of cold white wine or champagne, making it perfect for special occasions.

From a nutritional standpoint, Toast Skagen offers a good source of protein from the prawns and healthy omega-3 fatty acids from the fish roe. However, due to the mayonnaise-based dressing, it can be quite rich in calories and fat. A single serving typically contains around 300-400 calories. Those with shellfish allergies should obviously avoid this dish, and the bread base means it's not suitable for those following gluten-free diets. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise and substitute some with Greek yogurt.