Nicoise salad buffs, meet the pan bagnat. This classic French sandwich also hails from Nice and features the same signature olives, plus oil-packed tuna (I prefer Genova), hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, and anchovies, among other yummy ingredients.
Since I've been somewhat obsessed with all things French, I recently lunched at San Francisco's Cafe Claude to satisfy my pan bagnat craving. Learn how to replicate the recipe now.
Since PartySugar and I have been infatuated with salads this Summer, I thought it would be appropriate to pay homage to the French national holiday today with a specialty native to the Côte D'Azur region of France.
Salade Nicoise, or Nicoise salad, originated in the town of Nice, and is made with boiled new potatoes, steamed haricots verts (baby green beans), boiled eggs, local olives, cured anchovies, and tomatoes, tossed in a Dijon mustard vinaigrette and topped with tuna. I selected a recipe that uses some classic ingredients, but also incorporates a few unconventional flourishes — like seared tuna and caperberries — for a current twist.
It's extremely important to note that the tuna should be removed from the pan immediately after searing — I left it in the pan after turning off the stove, and latent heat nearly cooked the tuna through. Bring a bite of French countryside to your kitchen when you read more
Last week I was all about America's Independence Day, and this week I'm celebrating France's freedom. Bastille Day is July 14 and to commemorate the occasion, why not host an intimate weekend lunch? Like a chic Parisian, select a menu that's stylish yet casual, and wonderfully delicious. Start with a big jar of marinated goat cheese, olives, artichokes, tomatoes, and toasted baguette slices.
A refreshing bowl of vichyssoise — the classic chilled French puree consisting of leeks and potatoes — is an excellent first course, while grilled tuna salade niçoise makes an elegant entree. All three of these dishes can be prepared in advance, leaving plenty of time to mingle in the garden with guests. This delightful menu would also work well at a female-centric event like a bridal or baby shower. To check out the light French recipes, read more
