Tuna Nicoise

Tuna Niçoise Salad is a classic French dish that brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients for a beautifully balanced and flavorful meal. Traditionally made with tuna, hard-boiled eggs, green beans, potatoes, and olives, this salad is a delicious combination of textures and tastes. The richness of the tuna pairs perfectly with the crispness of the vegetables, while a tangy vinaigrette ties everything together. It’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for a lunch, dinner, or elegant outdoor gathering. Tuna Niçoise is not only delicious but also visually stunning, offering a sophisticated, healthy meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks or 1 can (6 oz) of high-quality tuna, drained
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, halved
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 2 tbsp capers (optional)
• 4 cups mixed greens or lettuce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil, for searing tuna (if using fresh tuna)

For the vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the potatoes and green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the halved potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes until tender. Remove the potatoes and set aside. In the same pot, blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the tuna (if using fresh tuna steaks): Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper. Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the tuna for about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on thickness and your preferred doneness. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.
3. Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. Assemble the salad: On a large platter or individual plates, arrange the mixed greens. Top with the cooked potatoes, green beans, cherry tomatoes, olives, capers (if using), and hard-boiled eggs. Add the tuna strips or canned tuna in the center.
5. Dress the salad: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, and gently toss to coat the ingredients. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Tuna Niçoise Salad is a beautiful and flavorful dish that offers a healthy, refreshing combination of fresh vegetables, protein-rich tuna, and a zesty vinaigrette, perfect for a light meal or an elegant dining experience!