Niçoise Salad is a light, protein-packed French classic that’s perfect for warm-weather lunches or elegant starters. Featuring tuna, eggs, olives, and crisp vegetables, this colorful dish is as satisfying as it is refreshing. Best of all? It’s quick to put together and ideal for anyone looking for a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- It’s fresh, filling, and flavorful, combining briny, savory, and tangy ingredients in every bite.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and loaded with protein, making it a smart choice for lunch or dinner.
- The salad is easy to customize with whatever seasonal veggies or proteins you have on hand.
- It’s perfect for meal prep, as the ingredients hold up well in the fridge when stored separately.
What Is Niçoise Salad?
Niçoise Salad (pronounced nee-swahz) hails from Nice, a sunny city on France’s Mediterranean coast. Traditionally served as a composed salad, its ingredients are arranged neatly rather than tossed. While variations exist, the classic version includes tuna, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, olives, and anchovies over a bed of greens. It’s a staple of Provençal cuisine and a prime example of Mediterranean diet simplicity—flavorful, fresh, and nourishing.
Pro Tips for the Best Niçoise Salad
- Don’t overcook the eggs—7 minutes gives a creamy yet firm yolk.
- Use good-quality tuna in oil, not water—it adds much-needed richness.
- Choose niçoise or kalamata olives for authentic taste and a salty punch.
- Add boiled potatoes or blanched green beans if you want a heartier version.
- Always dress just before serving to preserve the lettuce’s crisp texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead of Canned?
Yes! Simply sear or grill a fresh tuna steak, slice it thinly, and layer it over the salad.
Are There Vegetarian Alternatives to Tuna and Anchovies?
Absolutely. Swap the tuna for canned white beans or chickpeas, and skip the anchovies for a vegetarian twist.
What Type of Lettuce Works Best?
Butter lettuce, romaine, or a mix of crisp salad greens all work well for texture and structure.
Can I Make Niçoise Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep all components ahead, but keep them separate and assemble just before serving to avoid soggy lettuce.
Is Niçoise Salad Keto-Friendly?
Yes! This recipe is naturally low in carbs, especially if you skip optional potatoes or legumes.
What Dressing Should I Use?
A simple vinaigrette made with extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of garlic works beautifully.
How to Store Niçoise Salad
Store leftover Niçoise Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you anticipate leftovers, keep the dressing and lettuce separate to prevent wilting. Re-chill any components like eggs or tuna individually before reassembling for a quick, ready-made meal.
How to Freeze Niçoise Salad
This dish is not recommended for freezing due to its fresh vegetables and delicate eggs. However, you can freeze the boiled eggs (peeled) and tuna in oil separately if needed. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and use in fresh preparations—not reheated salads.
Ingredients
How to Make Niçoise Salad
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Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the eggs and boil for 7 minutes. Cool under cold water, peel, and cut into quarters.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the eggs and boil for 7 minutes. Cool under cold water, peel, and cut into quarters.
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Slice the spring onion thinly. Quarter the cherry tomatoes. Chop the drained anchovies into bite-sized pieces.
Slice the spring onion thinly. Quarter the cherry tomatoes. Chop the drained anchovies into bite-sized pieces.
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In a large serving bowl, spread out the lettuce. Layer with cherry tomatoes, spring onion, olives, tuna, and anchovies.
In a large serving bowl, spread out the lettuce. Layer with cherry tomatoes, spring onion, olives, tuna, and anchovies.
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Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.
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Top the salad with the hard-boiled egg wedges and serve immediately.
Top the salad with the hard-boiled egg wedges and serve immediately.
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