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Salade Niçoise Recipe

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4.3 from 46 reviews

A classic French salad featuring a vibrant mix of boiled eggs, tuna, potatoes, green beans, tomatoes, and olives, all lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon juice for a fresh, healthy, and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Eggs and Protein

  • 4 eggs
  • 2 cans tuna, drained

Vegetables

  • 3 medium potatoes
  • 200 g green beans
  • 2 tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup olives
  • Lettuce (optional)

Dressing and Seasoning

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Boil the eggs: Place the eggs in a pot of water and bring it to a boil. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until firm. Remove, cool under cold running water, peel, and cut into halves.
  2. Prepare the potatoes: Cut the potatoes into small pieces and boil them in water until tender but still firm, about 10-15 minutes depending on size. Drain and allow to cool completely.
  3. Cook the green beans: Boil the green beans in water for 3 to 5 minutes until just tender. Immediately transfer to cold water to stop cooking and preserve their vibrant green color and texture.
  4. Prepare other ingredients: Drain the tuna and keep it in large chunks. Slice the tomatoes and prepare the olives by rinsing if needed. Wash and dry the lettuce if using for serving base.
  5. Assemble the salad: On a large plate or serving bowl, arrange the cooked potatoes, green beans, sliced tomatoes, olives, tuna chunks, and halved eggs in separate sections for a beautiful layered effect.
  6. Add dressing and season: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salad. Add the optional lemon juice if desired. Season the entire salad lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness and contrasting textures of this classic Niçoise salad.

Notes

  • Boiling the eggs properly ensures a firm yolk and easier peeling.
  • Cool vegetables promptly after boiling to maintain color and texture.
  • Use high-quality canned tuna packed in olive oil for richer flavor.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated.
  • Adding lettuce is optional and can provide a fresh base if desired.
  • The salad can be customized by adding anchovies or capers, typical in traditional recipes.