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Classic Salade Niçoise

Erin Rains
Before diving into the details of making a classic Salade Niçoise, let’s chat about what pairs beautifully with this iconic dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine French
Servings 4
Calories 330 kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan, Pot

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients:

  • 4 oz of crisp romaine lettuce or mixed salad greens: These act as a base offering a crunch that compliments the soft ingredients.
  • 8 oz of slender green beans: Fresh or haricots verts are essential for their delicate sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 2 large eggs: Hard-boiled and halved. They bring richness to the dish.
  • ¼ small red onion thinly sliced: A hint of sharpness adds depth.
  • 10 oz of baby potatoes halved if large: These create heartiness in the salad, soaking up flavors delightfully.
  • 16 Kalamata or other black olives: Their briny richness is a must-have.
  • 4 oz of tuna packed in oil 1 small tin, drained: The protein element that ties everything together.
  • 1 tablespoon capers drained: Their tang unlocks peppery notes.
  • 8 oz cherry or grape tomatoes quartered if large: For that fresh, juicy experience.

Vinaigrette:

  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: This adds a zingy brightness.
  • 3 fresh basil leaves: A touch of herbaceous perfume.
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon-style mustard: For a subtle kick.
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil EVOO: The fat that binds the flavor, making every bite decadent.
  • 2 anchovy fillets in oil or 3 if they’re petite: For umami richness that enhances overall taste.
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Eggs

  • Place the eggs in a small saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for 9-12 minutes for firm, hard-boiled eggs. Afterward, transfer them to an ice bath for a few minutes to halt the cooking and make peeling easier.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

  • In a separate pot, add the halved baby potatoes and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and let cool, then cut into smaller halves if you desire.

Step 3: Blanch the Green Beans

  • In another pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for about 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp. Drain and quickly plunge them into ice water to maintain that vibrant green color.

Step 4: Prepare the Vinaigrette

  • In a small mixing bowl, add the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, anchovies, sea salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth; then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to create an emulsion. Fold in the chopped basil leaves.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl, combine the greens, quartered tomatoes, olives, and capers. Add the cooked green beans and potatoes. Toss gently with a bit of vinaigrette.

Step 6: Add Tuna and Eggs

  • Amidst the salad mix, place the tuna. Cut the hard-boiled eggs in half and place them on top. Drizzle a little more vinaigrette over the eggs for added flavor.

Step 7: Serve

  • Finish with fresh basil leaves for garnish and serve immediately.

Notes

- Fresh is Best: Use seasonal produce for maximum flavor. Farmer’s markets are ideal for picking the freshest ingredients.
- Customize Proteins: You can substitute tuna with cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Olive Varieties: Try using mixed olives for complexity. Their varied flavor profiles add an interesting twist.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the vinaigrette components. Add more mustard for spice or reduce the vinegar if preferred.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes enhances the melding of flavors.

Nutrition

Calories: 330kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 21gFat: 20gFiber: 5gSugar: 2g
Keyword Classic Salade Niçoise
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