Experience the delightful flavors of a classic French dish with Julia’s Salad Niçoise. This vibrant salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a rich source of nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome meal. Below, you will find the recipe complete with ingredients and instructions to help you prepare this exquisite dish for any occasion.
Julia’s Salad Niçoise
A traditional Salad Niçoise is a composition of fresh ingredients that brings together the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility, allowing for customization based on seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and blanched
- 1 cup small new potatoes, boiled and sliced
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in oil, drained and flaked
- 1/4 cup black olives, preferably Niçoise or Kalamata
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the vegetables. Blanch the green beans in salted boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until tender but crisp. Drain and plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- In a separate pot, boil the new potatoes until fork-tender. Once cooked, drain, allow them to cool slightly, and slice them into rounds.
- On a large serving platter, arrange the wedges of tomatoes, green beans, and sliced potatoes in sections. This will create a beautiful rainbow effect on your dish.
- Scatter the flaked tuna over the vegetables and add the black olives. Place the quartered hard-boiled eggs around the salad for an elegant touch.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Lastly, garnish with fresh basil and parsley to elevate the flavors. Serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate for a short while to serve chilled.
This Salad Niçoise offers a refreshing balance of flavors that celebrate the spirit of French cuisine. It’s perfect as a standalone meal or as a side dish at gatherings. Enjoy this beautiful medley of colors and tastes as you indulge in a classic culinary experience.