Inspired by the Mediterranean tradition of bread and tomato salads, this Heirloom Tomato Bread Salad is made of perfectly ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, a tangy vinaigrette, and crunchy bread croutons. It is both refreshing and satisfying, with a great mix of soft and crunchy textures. An easy salad best made when tomatoes are in season.
Bastille Day—France’s National Day on July 14—is a time for celebration, food, and togetherness. Whether you’re planning a picnic, beach day, or cozy dinner at home, this festive day is all about recipes that are simple, flavorful, and oh-so-French. From refreshing ratatouille to creamy roasted eggplant dip, rice and tuna salad, and summery tarts, I’ve gathered for you my favorite Bastille day recipes that are festive, easy to prep, and perfect for an authentic French-inspired celebration. Plus, I am including a few tips to host a Bastille Day celebration wherever …
Ratatouille is a French Provencal stew of ripe Summer vegetables (tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini and bell peppers) cooked together slowly until creamy soft. An uncomplicated recipe, making a good ratatouille does require a bit of time. Make this stovetop recipe on a weekend to enjoy it throughout the week… because a ratatouille tastes even better reheated!
A regional recipe from southern France’s Provence, this Roasted Red Pepper Dip known as Poivronade, is a staple of the French “apéro” (pre-dinner drinks and snacks). It features blistery roasted bell peppers blended with feta, parmesan, pine nuts and fresh basil leaves. Creamy and full of sun-kissed flavors, you can enjoy it as a spread on toast or as a dip, alongside chilled drinks and good company.
The Classic Fruit French Tart – known as Tarte aux fruits frais – is an ultimate Summer show-stopper. It features a buttery, sweet pastry crust filled with rich pastry cream and topped with colorful fresh fruits and an apricot glaze. A refreshing yet decadent tart that’s perfect for hosting. Prepare each component ahead of time and assemble just before serving.
3 steps, 3 ingredients and 30 minutes is all you need for this easy and delicious strawberry jam (no pectin added). This is my go-to recipe, which I love to make at the peak of strawberry season when this fruit is at its ripest. This jam is smooth, spreadable, and simply lets the strawberries shine. A great small-batch recipe for first timers or any home cook to add to their repertoire.
Don’t throw out those radish leaves! Made from fresh, peppery radish leaves and potatoes for extra body, this Radish Leaf Soup is ever so popular in France and a Spring staple in my kitchen. It offers healthy, delicious comfort and is a great way to make do with extremely underrated radish leaves.
Popular French butter cookies, Sablés come in all forms and flavors– and these Buckwheat Sablés with Chocolate are some of my favorite ones. Nutty buckwheat flavor, the rich taste of butter and speckles of dark chocolate come together in a perfectly crisp shortbread cookie texture. These easy to make cookies are a must to try, and adopt.
If you enjoy fresh and wholesome salads, this is a great one for your repertoire. This Classic French Lentil Salad is made using earthy, healthy Puy lentils, carrots, shallots and herbs drizzled with a quick zippy Dijon vinaigrette. It is affordable, simple to make and very satisfying. A great side dish for hosting, or as a make-ahead recipe for meals on-the-go.
With Easter around the corner, why not bring a taste of France to your holiday table? Whether you’re planning a festive brunch or a special Easter dinner, these French Easter recipes will add a touch of elegance and tradition to your celebration. Start the day with flaky almond croissants, enjoy a classic quiche for brunch, and impress your guests with hearty mains like Lamb Navarin or Porc aux pruneaux. Pair them with spring-inspired sides like Carrots Vichy, and don’t forget to indulge in decadent chocolate desserts like the iconic Queen …