How to Make French Sauce Vierge
French sauce vierge is a delightful and vibrant sauce that embodies the freshness of Mediterranean cuisine. Made with simple, high-quality ingredients, this sauce is perfect for drizzling over grilled fish, vegetables, or even pasta. Follow these steps to create your own delicious sauce vierge at home.
Ingredients for French Sauce Vierge
To make a traditional sauce vierge, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 ripe tomatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sauce Vierge
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Begin by peeling the tomatoes. A simple way to do this is to score the bottom of each tomato with a small "X" and blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Transfer them to an ice bath to cool, then easily peel off the skin. Once peeled, dice the tomatoes and set them aside.
Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and red wine vinegar. Stir gently to mix the ingredients, ensuring the tomatoes are coated with the vinegar and garlic.
Step 3: Add the Olive Oil
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while stirring the mixture. The oil not only adds richness to the sauce but also helps to meld the flavors together. Aim for a smooth blend that maintains the chunkiness of the tomatoes.
Step 4: Incorporate Fresh Herbs
Add the chopped basil and parsley to the mixture, stirring gently to combine. Fresh herbs are essential for bringing out the bright flavors of the sauce, so be generous!
Step 5: Season to Taste
Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to balance the acidity of the vinegar and the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your sauce vierge at room temperature, making it a perfect complement to various dishes. Here are some serving ideas:
- Drizzle over grilled fish such as salmon or seabass for a fresh touch.
- Use as a topping for roasted vegetables to enhance their flavors.
- Pair with pasta for a light and healthy meal option.
- Serve as a dipping sauce with crusty bread for an aperitif.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftover sauce vierge, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. The flavors will develop further as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead option for gatherings.
Making French sauce vierge is straightforward and rewarding. This sauce showcases simple ingredients in the best way possible, bringing a taste of France to your kitchen!