Salade lyonnaise means more to me than just a simple salad—it takes me back instantly to Lyon, a city I discovered during my Erasmus days, a time when there were no smartphones, no Facebook or Instagram, but from which I carry so many cherished memories. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that these memories have started resurfacing; time has slipped by unnoticed, and only recently did I realize that it's been nearly twenty years since I spent my days in the Rhône-Alpes, surrounded by smiling friends, unforgettable adventures, and bottles of red wine, marking the beginning of a long love story. And what better way to indulge in the nostalgia of those days, now that so much time has passed, than a dish that can instantly transport you, evoking the most beautiful memories through its flavors?
So today, I chose the delightful salad from the city of the Little Prince, ancient cathedrals, and the Rhône: salade lyonnaise. Also known as frisée aux lardons, salade lyonnaise is one of the most popular dishes you’ll find in the small restaurants of Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France.
About Salade Lyonnaise
Despite having just four simple ingredients, salade lyonnaise is quite different from what most people would typically associate with a salad—the idea of a diet-friendly dish. But, since it's often served as a hearty lunch accompanied by a glass of dry red wine, it’s designed to be filling, giving anyone enough energy and cheer to power through the day.
Salade Lyonnaise - The Recipe
The star of this dish is fresh, slightly bitter frisée lettuce, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette made from Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper, all carefully whisked together. It pairs beautifully with crispy, pan-fried bacon pieces (lardons), much like the way modern buildings blend harmoniously with ancient cathedrals in old Lyon. Add in some freshly baked croutons—simple bites of bread drizzled with olive oil, salt, and pepper—and place a perfectly poached egg, cooked in water with a touch of vinegar for about 2 minutes, right in the center of the salad.
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