Niçoise Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Salad:

  • 2 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., romaine, arugula, spinach)

  • 4 oz (115g) green beans, trimmed and blanched

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/2 cup black olives (Niçoise or Kalamata), pitted

  • 2 small potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered

  • 1 can (about 5 oz or 140g) tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked

  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

  • 2 tbsp capers (optional)

• For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Method:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

   • Place the cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until tender. Drain and let cool.

2. Blanch the Green Beans:

   • In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain again and pat dry.

3. Prepare the Salad Components:

   • Halve the cherry tomatoes.

   • Slice the red onion thinly.

   • Peel and quarter the hard-boiled eggs.

   • Flake the tuna and set aside.

   • If using, chop the fresh basil leaves and set aside.

4. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Salad:

   • On a large serving platter or individual plates, arrange the mixed greens as the base.

   • Top with the blanched green beans, cherry tomatoes, black olives, cooked potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and tuna.

   • Add the sliced red onion and capers (if using).

   • Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad.

6. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

   • Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Tips:

• You can substitute the tuna with cooked chicken or salmon for a different protein option.

• Adjust the quantities and ingredients to your taste or based on what you have on hand.

This classic Niçoise Salad is a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, protein, and a tangy dressing, perfect for a light lunch or a hearty dinner.