Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the fragrant scent of fresh herbs fills the air, I’m transported to a sun-drenched terrace on the French Riviera, where a colorful Classic Niçoise Salad graces the table. This vibrant dish, a symphony of fresh ingredients and satisfying textures, not only delivers a taste of Mediterranean bliss but also boasts a plethora of health benefits. It’s gluten-free adaptable and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for a quick lunch or a light dinner that impresses. With the flexibility to customize this salad to your liking, whether you’re swapping in seasonal veggies or adding a twist of protein, the possibilities are as endless as the sea before me. Are you ready to dive into this delightful culinary adventure? Why is Niçoise Salad So Special? Vibrant Ingredients: This salad shines with its colorful medley of fresh veggies and proteins, making it a feast for the eyes and the palate. Customizable Delights: With endless variations, you can easily tailor it to your taste—whether swapping potatoes for sweet potatoes or adding different proteins like chicken or smoked salmon. Quick Prep: Need a meal in a hurry? This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous lunch gatherings. Health Benefits: Packed with nutrients and healthy fats, each serving of this Niçoise salad offers a nutritious boost, helping you stay energized and satisfied without sacrificing flavor. Crowd Pleaser: Impress guests or family with this beautiful dish that caters to a variety of preferences, just like our delicious Bacon Pasta Salad or vibrant Peach Feta Salad. Dive into the Mediterranean vibes with this delightful salad and savor every bite! Niçoise Salad Ingredients For the Salad • Large Eggs – Provides protein and creaminess; swap with store-bought hard-boiled eggs for convenience. • Fresh Green Beans – Adds crunch and freshness; substitute with snap peas or asparagus if needed. • Baby Potatoes – Contributes heartiness to the salad; can be replaced with any similar or different potatoes. • Soft Lettuce (e.g., Boston or Bibb) – Serves as the base for the salad; mixed greens can be an alternative. • Cherry Tomatoes – Adds sweetness and color; use any small tomatoes in their place. • English Cucumber – Provides crispness and hydration; feel free to use regular cucumbers if preferred. • Niçoise or Kalamata Olives – Adds brininess to balance flavors; use any olives you enjoy or omit for a less salty flavor. • Canned Tuna (or salmon) – Primary protein source; opt for high-quality wild-caught for the best flavor. • Fresh Chives (optional) – Adds a subtle onion flavor; replace with scallions if chives are unavailable. For the Dressing • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A dressing base contributing healthy fats; use any light oil if desired. • Red Wine Vinegar – Adds acidity to the dressing; apple cider vinegar can replace it. • Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste. • Garlic – Provides aroma and depth to the dressing; minced shallots are a mild alternative. With these ingredients, you’re all set to craft a delightful Niçoise salad that celebrates freshness and customization in every bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Niçoise Salad Step 1: Boil Eggs Begin by bringing a medium pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully lower large eggs into the boiling water and let them cook for 8-9 minutes. Once done, transfer the eggs immediately into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. After a few minutes, peel the eggs and set aside; their creamy texture will perfectly complement your vibrant Niçoise salad. Step 2: Cook Vegetables In the same pot of boiling water, add baby potatoes. Cook until tender, which should take about 10-12 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add fresh green beans to the pot. Once both veggies are done, drain them and quickly plunge into an ice bath to retain their vibrant colors and crispness. Set aside to cool while you prepare the dressing. Step 3: Make Dressing In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and fresh chives, if using. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste and ensure the dressing is well-balanced. The richness of this dressing will elevate the freshness of your Niçoise salad, so adjust the acidity or seasoning until it suits your palate perfectly. Step 4: Assemble Salad On a large platter, arrange a bed of soft lettuce leaves to create a visually appealing base. Next, layer the halved boiled eggs, cooked potatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, olives, and chunks of canned tuna on top. Each ingredient should be placed elegantly to showcase the colorful elements of your Classic Niçoise salad for an inviting presentation. Step 5: Finishing Touch Drizzle the remaining dressing over the assembled salad, letting it cascade across the ingredients, enhancing their natural flavors. Season the dish with additional salt and pepper if desired, tailoring the taste to your liking. This luscious Niçoise salad is now ready to be enjoyed, inviting everyone to indulge in its bright and healthy goodness. Make Ahead Options These Classic Niçoise Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a fresh, flavorful dish with minimal last-minute effort! You can boil the eggs and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring they retain their creaminess. Additionally, cook the baby potatoes and green beans a day in advance, refrigerating them separately to maintain their texture and crispness. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the salad with fresh lettuce, cucumbers, and your favorite protein like canned tuna or salmon. Drizzle the dressing just before enjoying to keep the flavors vibrant and delicious! What to Serve with Classic Niçoise Salad Looking to elevate your dining experience? Pair this flavorful salad with delightful side dishes that enhance its fresh, vibrant essence. Crusty Baguette: The perfect accompaniment for scooping up every last bite, a warm baguette adds a satisfying crunch. Grilled Chicken: Juicy, well-seasoned chicken complements the salad’s refreshing flavors and adds a hearty protein kick. Roasted Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, roasted asparagus brings a nutty taste that balances the salad perfectly. Herbed Quinoa: This light, fluffy grain adds a delightful texture and complements the Mediterranean vibes of the Niçoise salad. Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate while enhancing the meal’s vibrant flavors, keeping things light and crisp. Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, the icy freshness of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after the meal, leaving a zesty finish. Caprese Skewers: These bite-sized delights offer a twist of flavor with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil, mirroring the salad’s freshness. Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine enhances the dish’s savoriness, making every bite even more enjoyable. These pairings create an inviting, well-rounded meal that will leave your friends and family wanting more! Niçoise Salad Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your Niçoise salad; exploring different flavors and textures can lead to delightful surprises! Dairy-Free: Swap hard-boiled eggs for avocado slices to maintain creaminess without dairy. The rich texture of the avocado pairs beautifully with the crisp veggies. Vegan: Replace canned tuna with chickpeas or marinated tofu for a plant-based option. Adding a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors while keeping it satisfying. Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients checked for gluten; substituting baby potatoes with quinoa offers a nutty flavor and adds texture without compromising integrity. Flavor Boost: Incorporate capers in place of olives for a zesty punch. Their brininess can liven up the dressing and add an unexpected twist. Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or parsley to your dressing for an aromatic lift. These fragrant herbs can enhance the Mediterranean feel of your salad, enveloping each bite in freshness. Smoky Touch: Use smoked salmon instead of tuna for a different flavor profile. The smokiness will give your salad an entirely new essence, making it even more enjoyable. Chef’s Twist: Incorporate grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added depth. The char from grilling adds a whole new level of deliciousness, making each bite unforgettable. Spice It Up: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Just a hint will elevate the overall bite while letting the fresh ingredients shine through. Feel free to get inspired and experiment with seasonal favorites! Perhaps pairing this salad with our tasty Macaroni Pasta Salad for a hearty meal can make for a fabulous feast. Expert Tips for Perfect Niçoise Salad Egg Timing: Aim for 8-9 minutes for perfect boiled eggs; adjust based on your preferred yolk consistency to avoid overcooking. Quality Matters: Choose high-quality canned tuna for the best flavor; avoid chunk light varieties as they tend to be less flavorful and flaky. Customize Smartly: Don’t hesitate to mix in seasonal veggies, but be mindful of texture; avoid overcooking to keep them crunchy in your Niçoise salad. Dressing Balance: Adjust your dressing’s acidity by tasting; if it’s too sharp, a splash more olive oil or a touch of sweetener can help mellow it. Layering for Freshness: When assembling, layer ingredients in a way that retains their individual flavors and colors, resulting in a more visually appealing dish. How to Store and Freeze Niçoise Salad Airtight Container: Store any leftover Niçoise salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This keeps the ingredients fresh and minimizes any browning of the veggies. Dressing Separation: To maintain crispness, keep the dressing separate from the salad until you’re ready to enjoy it. This way, the lettuce and other ingredients don’t become soggy. Freezing Not Recommended: Due to the delicate nature of the fresh vegetables and eggs, freezing Niçoise salad is not recommended as it can alter texture and flavor. Reheating: If you have leftover cooked potatoes or green beans, gently reheat them before serving. However, it’s best to enjoy the salad cold for the ultimate flavor experience. Niçoise Salad Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ingredients for my Niçoise salad? Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, look for vibrant, crisp vegetables without any dark spots or blemishes. The tomatoes should be firm and bright, while the green beans should snap easily. When selecting canned tuna, go for high-quality wild-caught varieties, as they provide a richer taste compared to chunk light options. How long can I store leftover Niçoise salad? You can keep leftover Niçoise salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the freshness of the greens, it’s best to separate the dressing until serving. This prevents wilting and keeps everything deliciously crisp! Can I freeze Niçoise salad? Freezing is generally not recommended for Niçoise salad due to its delicate ingredients, especially the vegetables and boiled eggs. If you must freeze components, like cooked potatoes or green beans, store them in a separate container for up to 3 months. Just ensure to cool them completely before freezing to lock in the best flavors. My eggs turned out overcooked; how can I avoid that next time? Very! To achieve perfectly boiled eggs, aim for 8-9 minutes in boiling water for a nice creamy yolk. If your eggs are overcooked, they tend to get that unsightly grey ring around the yolk. To avoid this, transfer them to an ice bath immediately after boiling. This not only stops the cooking but also makes peeling easier! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with Niçoise salad? Absolutely! If you’re preparing this salad for someone with allergies, consider substituting the tuna with chickpeas or quinoa for a vegetarian option. Always check that the olives do not contain any allergens, and consult with anyone consuming the dish about what they can safely enjoy. Can I make Niçoise salad ahead of time? Very! To make it ahead, prepare the ingredients and store each separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best freshness and texture. You can also prepare the dressing in advance; it actually tastes even better after mingling overnight. Just give it a good whisk before drizzling! Enjoy your Niçoise salad adventure! Vibrant Niçoise Salad: Fresh, Healthy, and Customizable Delight Experience the vibrant flavors of Niçoise Salad, a fresh, healthy, and customizable delight that brings Mediterranean bliss to your table. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladsCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salad4 large Eggs Provides protein and creaminess; swap with store-bought hard-boiled eggs for convenience.200 grams Fresh Green Beans Adds crunch and freshness; substitute with snap peas or asparagus if needed.400 grams Baby Potatoes Contributes heartiness to the salad; can be replaced with any similar or different potatoes.150 grams Soft Lettuce Serves as the base for the salad; mixed greens can be an alternative.200 grams Cherry Tomatoes Adds sweetness and color; use any small tomatoes in their place.1 large English Cucumber Provides crispness and hydration; feel free to use regular cucumbers if preferred.100 grams Niçoise or Kalamata Olives Adds brininess to balance flavors; use any olives you enjoy or omit for a less salty flavor.200 grams Canned Tuna Primary protein source; opt for high-quality wild-caught for the best flavor.10 grams Fresh Chives Adds a subtle onion flavor; replace with scallions if chives are unavailable.For the Dressing60 ml Extra Virgin Olive Oil A dressing base contributing healthy fats; use any light oil if desired.30 ml Red Wine Vinegar Adds acidity to the dressing; apple cider vinegar can replace it.to taste Kosher Salt Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste.to taste Black Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste.1 clove Garlic Provides aroma and depth to the dressing; minced shallots are a mild alternative. Equipment potBowlWhiskplatter Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Niçoise SaladBegin by bringing a medium pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully lower large eggs into the boiling water and let them cook for 8-9 minutes. Once done, transfer the eggs immediately into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. After a few minutes, peel the eggs and set aside.In the same pot of boiling water, add baby potatoes. Cook until tender, which should take about 10-12 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add fresh green beans to the pot. Once both veggies are done, drain them and quickly plunge into an ice bath to retain their vibrant colors and crispness. Set aside to cool while you prepare the dressing.In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and fresh chives, if using. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.On a large platter, arrange a bed of soft lettuce leaves. Layer the halved boiled eggs, cooked potatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, olives, and chunks of canned tuna on top.Drizzle the remaining dressing over the assembled salad, letting it enhance the natural flavors. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 22gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesStore any leftover Niçoise salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until serving to avoid soggy ingredients. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
