11 French Summer Dishes to Make Anywhere Feel like France
Bonjour! Are you looking for some delicious and refreshing French dishes to enjoy this summer? Look no further! In this post, we will explore various classic French summer dishes perfect for warm-weather dining. From light and fresh salads to savory grilled dishes, we have something for everyone. So, grab a glass of your favorite French wine and let’s get started!
Salade Niçoise
A classic from Nice, Salade Niçoise features tuna, anchovies, hard-boiled eggs, green beans, tomatoes, olives, and potatoes on a bed of lettuce, dressed with olive oil and vinegar.
Olive Tapenade
Served as an appetizer, Olive Tapenade is a savory southern French spread made from finely chopped olives, capers, and anchovies, typically seasoned with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
French Shrimp Salad
Shrimp Salad with Champagne Beurre Blanc is an elegant and sophisticated dish featuring succulent shrimp, mixed greens, and a tangy and creamy champagne-infused butter sauce, often garnished with chives and served with crusty bread.
Bouillabaisse
A traditional fish stew from Marseille, Bouillabaisse is made with fish, shellfish, and aromatic vegetables, seasoned with saffron, and served with rouille sauce and croutons.
Clafoutis
Cherry Clafoutis is a baked dessert featuring fresh cherries or other summer fruits in a custard-like batter.
Pissaladière
Pissaladière is a savory tart from the Provence region topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and black olives.
Grilled Fish
Fresh seafood like sea bass or mackerel can be simply grilled with herbs and served with lemon and olive oil to create a classic French summer main dish.
Provencal Stuffed Vegetables (Petits Farcis)
Petits Farcis involves vegetables like tomatoes, zucchinis, and bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, breadcrumbs, herbs, and garlic, then baked.
Fresh Fig and Goat Cheese Salad
A delightful and refreshing dish made with fresh figs, creamy goat cheese, mixed greens, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, often garnished with toasted walnuts or almonds.
Gazpacho
While originally from Spain, gazpacho is also popular in southern France. It’s a cold tomato-based soup with cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and garlic.
Tarte aux Fruits
Tarte aux Fruits is a classic fresh fruit tart with a buttery crust, and custard filling, and topped with seasonal fruits like berries or stone fruits.
