Tuna Nicoise

Story behind the dish

Few salads evoke the spirit of the Mediterranean quite like Tuna Niçoise. Bright, vibrant, and bursting with fresh flavors, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Originating from the colorful city of Nice in France, it transports you to sunny French coastlines with every bite — a truly satisfying and crisp meal for any time of day.

Creating this salad is like assembling a vibrant mosaic: tender potatoes, juicy tuna, crisp spinach, and perfectly boiled eggs all blend into a stunning plate that’s both hearty and elegant. It’s the kind of dish that turns a regular lunch into a culinary getaway and makes weeknight dinners feel special.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 1/4 cup (50 g) sunflower oil
• 1/2 red onion, sliced
• 3 cups (100 g) fresh spinach
• 14 oz (400 g) tuna, drained and flaked

Step-by-step

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C, fan 180°C, gas 6). Toss the potatoes with 2 teaspoons of olive oil and some salt and pepper. Spread them on a large baking tray and roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they’re crisp, golden, and cooked through.
2. While the potatoes are roasting, place the eggs in a small saucepan of boiling water. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, depending on your preferred yolk firmness. Transfer the eggs to a bowl of cold water and let cool for a few minutes. Peel the shells off and cut the eggs in halves.
3. In a large salad bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, red wine vinegar, capers, and chopped tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the sliced red onion, spinach, flaked tuna, and roasted potatoes to the dressing. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
5. Top the salad with the halved eggs and serve immediately, straight from the bowl.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra burst of flavor, add some fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving.
• Serve this salad with crusty French bread or a light white wine for a full Mediterranean experience.

Closing thoughts

Whipping up a Tuna Niçoise is a delightful way to bring a touch of the French Riviera into your kitchen. The mix of warm roasted potatoes and cool, crisp greens, combined with the rich, flaky tuna, makes every bite an adventure. So gather your ingredients, embrace the freshness, and enjoy a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!