France is known for being a foodie paradise filled with innumerable delicious dishes – and Nice is one of the tastiest regions around. So many unique recipes have originated from this area, making it difficult to know just which you should try first… but have no fear, I’ve narrowed it down for you! Here are three local French dishes that I think are particularly nice.
Salade Nicoise
As the name suggests, this salad is a Nice speciality (although it has become popular all over the world). It consists of quartered hardboiled eggs, canned tuna, tomatoes, boiled potatoes, anchovies and Cailletier olives; salad leaves are an optional base (it’s so hearty it doesn’t necessarily need them) but are often included. The dressing most commonly used is a simple, classic vinaigrette.
Traditionally this dish is made in the summertime with fresh local produce, and only raw veggies should be used.
Ratatouille
No, I’m not talking about the animated movie featuring the rat with big dreams of becoming a chef – this is the dish that inspired that film, and it’s a delicious one at that. It’s perfect for vegetarians, and can be both a side or, when served with pasta, bread or rice, a main. This veggie stew consists of onions, courgettes, aubergines and peppers all sautéed with garlic and herbes de Provence (a mixture of dried herbs, typically oregano, rosemary, thyme and marjoram, among others). Tomatoes – perhaps the most important ingredient – are added later to give it its characteristic thickness.
Tourte de Blettes
Tourte de blettes is a dessert tart – although you wouldn’t think it was much of a pudding as its main ingredient is chard. The pastry that forms the top crust and base is made with olive oil and the filling consists of parmesan, pine nuts and, of course, chard. Sometimes a layer of apple is also included. Despite the fact it’s heavily comprised of a vegetable, this dish is sweet, delicious and the perfect way to end a meal. Think of it as comparable to carrot cake or sweet potato pie!
If you want to make your experience tasting these tantalising French foods as nice as possible, try them in Nice. After all, authenticity is one of the best ways to ensure a delicious meal.
