Summer

Looking for a fresh, vibrant summer salad straight from the heart of France? This French Tomato Salad, or Salade de Tomates, is a rustic, simple dish that celebrates the flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes, crisp red onions, fresh herbs and quality olive oil. This is a staple in my French household, perfect as a starter, light lunch, or side dish.

If you’re looking to impress with a French dessert that’s as easy to make as it is elegant, let me introduce you to the Chocolate Marquise—known in France as Marquise au Chocolat. This rich, frozen chocolate terrine is a no-bake classic that combines the silkiness of a mousse with the intensity of dark chocolate.

This French Egg Salad is a beloved bistro classic—simple, elegant and full of character. Unlike the richer, mayo-heavy American version, this egg salad is lighter and brighter, with generous chunks of tender eggs, crunchy cornichons, briny capers and a handful of fresh herbs that brings everything to life. Whether you’re making lunch for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers big flavor with very little fuss.

A French plum tart, also known as “Tarte aux Prunes,” is a classic French dessert that highlights the natural sweetness and juiciness of plums. This tart features a buttery, flaky crust filled with fresh plums that are baked until jammy. It’s buttery, nutty, sweet and tart all at once. Enjoy it on its own, or with a dollop of crème fraiche on top – heavenly!

This simple homemade Niçoise Salad is a lively mix of fresh tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, radishes and cool cucumber, spruced up with hard-boiled eggs, tuna, salty anchovies and a simple herby dressing. True to tradition, you’ll find no green beans nor potatoes in this authentic recipe! It’s a refreshingly crisp and crunchy salad that’s ideal for your next BBQ or to pop into your lunchbox.

It’s eggplant season and that means this Provencal Eggplant Tomato Gratin is on repeat in my kitchen. This typical southern French recipe includes tender slices of eggplants layered with chunky tomato sauce, plenty of cheese and spiked with Herbs de Provence. This is a fuss-free recipe that makes a great side or a perfect vegetarian dinner.

Known as Croquettes de Sardines, these sardine and white bean cakes offer a delightful Breton twist on classic fish cakes. Made with salty sardines, creamy white beans and fresh herbs, they feature a perfectly smooth interior and a crispy exterior. Enjoy them as a fun finger food with your favorite dip, paired with a refreshing summer salad, or tucked into a sandwich bun for a delicious meal.

Here’s a refreshing summer twist on the classic French lentil salad! It features earthy Puy lentils mingling with juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, all brought to life with loads of fresh herbs and a zippy dressing with red onions. This vibrant, satisfying, and wholesome salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re heading to a barbecue, potluck, or simply enjoying an everyday lunch at home.

Here’s to the perfect summer treat – a Cherry Cake, inspired by the beloved dessert from the Vosges Mountains, in Eastern France. This cake is light, airy, bouncy and nestled with sweet, juicy cherries. It’s the perfect baked good to celebrate cherry season and enjoy all summer long.

This French-style rice and tuna salad offers delightful Mediterranean flavors and is a beloved childhood favorite of mine, as well as a staple in French home cooking. This vibrant mix includes rice, tender tuna chunks, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, crisp bell peppers and fresh herbs. It’s a refreshing yet filling salad, perfect for serving at a luncheon, as a side dish for a barbecue, or packed for a picnic or potluck.