The Best French Salads to Make When You’re Short on Time

When time is of the essence, whipping up a delicious French salad can be a quick and satisfying solution. French cuisine offers a variety of salads that are both flavorful and uncomplicated, perfect for busy days. Here’s a selection of the best French salads you can prepare in no time.

1. Salade niçoise
Salade niçoise is a classic salad from Nice, typically made with fresh vegetables, tuna, hard-boiled eggs, and olives. For a quick version, use canned tuna, and pre-cooked eggs. Toss together romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green beans, black olives, and a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This salad is not only quick to prepare but also packed with protein and nutrients.

2. Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a refreshing salad featuring bulgur, fresh parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions. You can prepare it quickly by soaking the bulgur beforehand. Combine it with diced veggies, and season generously with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This salad can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, allowing the flavors to deepen.

3. Salade de chèvre chaud
This delectable goat cheese salad can be prepared in under 15 minutes. Simply top slices of baguette with goat cheese and broil until golden and bubbly. Meanwhile, toss mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette. Arrange the toasted goat cheese on top, and finish with walnuts or dried fruits for an added crunch.

4. French potato salad (Salade de pommes de terre)
French potato salad is hearty yet simple. Boil baby potatoes until tender, then cool and slice. Combine them with chopped green onions, fresh herbs such as parsley or chives, and a mustard-based dressing. This dish is fantastic served warm or chilled, making it a versatile option for any meal.

5. Beetroot salad (Salade de betteraves)
This vibrant salad is rich in flavor and nutrients. Use pre-cooked beets to save time. Slice them thinly and layer them on a plate with crumbled feta cheese, walnuts, and arugula. Drizzle with a simple dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This colorful dish is sure to impress with minimal effort.

6. Cucumber and tomato salad (Salade de concombre et tomate)
This light and refreshing salad can be made in minutes. Simply chop cucumbers and tomatoes and toss them with red onion slices. Dress with a mixture of olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and a sprinkle of herbs like basil or dill. It's a great accompaniment to grilled meats or a light meal on its own.

7. Avocado and crab salad (Salade d’avocats et crabe)
This luxurious salad blends creamy avocado and tender crab meat. Use pre-cooked crabs or crab meat and mix it with diced avocado, lime juice, and a touch of mayonnaise. Serve it on a bed of leafy greens for a quick gourmet dish.

8. Lentil salad (Salade de lentilles)
Lentils are not only nutritious but also quick to prepare if you use canned lentils. Mix them with diced bell peppers, red onions, and fresh herbs. A simple dressing of olive oil, mustard, and vinegar brings it all together. This salad is filling and perfect for meal prepping.

With these easy-to-make French salads, you can enjoy the rich flavors of French cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you want a light lunch or a hearty side dish, these options ensure you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!