Classic Niçoise Salad

Classic Niçoise Salad Recipe

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Discover the vibrant flavors of the Classic Niçoise Salad—a beautifully arranged, refreshing salad that’s hearty enough to serve as a complete meal. This iconic French dish brings together fresh vegetables, tender potatoes, protein-packed tuna, and a zesty mustard vinaigrette. Whether for a light lunch or elegant dinner, this salad is a timeless choice!

Introduction

The Niçoise Salad is a French classic that originated in Nice, on the French Riviera. Known for its colorful presentation and variety of textures, this salad features fresh produce, boiled eggs, and high-quality tuna, all elevated by a tangy mustard vinaigrette. The combination of ingredients offers a delightful balance of flavors, making it a favorite among food lovers worldwide.

Ingredients

Mustard Vinaigrette

  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill or 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh dill

Niçoise Salad

  • 4 large eggs
  • 4-5 small Yukon Gold or red potatoes
  • 8 ounces green beans
  • 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup sliced radishes
  • 1/2 cup Niçoise or Kalamata olives
  • 3 tablespoons capers
  • 10 ounces white albacore tuna in water
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the best flavor, use high-quality ingredients, especially for the tuna and olives, which are key to the salad’s authenticity.

How to Make Classic Niçoise Salad

Follow these steps to create a Classic Niçoise Salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious:

  1. Prepare the Mustard Vinaigrette: In a medium bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and dill until well combined. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Eggs: Fill a large saucepan with enough water to reach just below a steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil, then carefully add the eggs to the steamer basket using a long-handled spoon or tongs. Cover and steam the eggs for 13-15 minutes. Transfer the eggs to a bowl of icy cold water to stop the cooking process.
  3. Cook the Potatoes and Green Beans: Use the same pot to cook the potatoes. Add them to the pot with cool water, covering them by about an inch, and add a teaspoon of salt. Bring the pot to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer until the potatoes are almost fork-tender. Then, add the green beans to the simmering water and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove both potatoes and green beans to a bowl of icy cold water to cool.
  4. Arrange the Salad: Peel the eggs and slice them in half. Slice the potatoes in half as well. On a large platter, arrange the eggs, potatoes, green beans, cherry tomatoes, radishes, olives, capers, and tuna for a beautiful presentation. Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve with the Vinaigrette: Drizzle the mustard vinaigrette over the salad and serve promptly.

Helpful Tips

  • Perfectly Cooked Eggs: Steaming the eggs results in an ideal texture and prevents overcooking.
  • Quality Tuna: Choose high-quality white albacore tuna in water for the best flavor and texture.
  • Quick Cooling: Placing the eggs, potatoes, and green beans in icy cold water stops the cooking instantly and keeps them tender.

Cooking Tips

To make your Classic Niçoise Salad even better, consider these tips:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of vegetables like tomatoes, radishes, and green beans enhances the salad’s flavor.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill in the vinaigrette adds a fragrant, earthy note. For a twist, try adding basil or parsley.
  • Equipment Tip: Using a steamer basket for the eggs and potatoes makes it easy to transfer them to cold water for cooling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Niçoise Salad on a large platter for a stunning presentation. This dish pairs well with crusty French bread or a light, chilled white wine. Whether served as a main course or as part of a spread, it’s a show-stopper that’s sure to impress guests.

Nutritional Information

This Classic Niçoise Salad is rich in protein and essential nutrients from the fresh vegetables, eggs, and tuna. The vinaigrette adds a touch of healthy fats, making this dish as nourishing as it is delicious.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 190mg
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Potassium: 800mg
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Vitamin A: 15%
  • Vitamin C: 20%
  • Calcium: 6%
  • Iron: 15%

Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Serving Tip: Store the salad and dressing separately to keep the vegetables fresh and crisp. Add the vinaigrette just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned green beans?
Fresh green beans are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but canned green beans can be used in a pinch.

What can I use instead of Niçoise olives?
Kalamata olives are a great substitute and have a similar briny flavor profile.

Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the tuna with chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based version that’s equally delicious.

If you enjoyed this Classic Niçoise Salad, try these other refreshing recipes:

Conclusion

The Classic Niçoise Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that offers a taste of the Mediterranean. Perfect for gatherings, this salad is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. We hope you enjoy this timeless recipe—happy cooking!

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