Discover the Flavors of France: 20 Simple Easy Recipes to Try
French cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, intricate preparations, and bold ingredients. But you don’t have to be a culinary expert to create these mouthwatering dishes at home. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can recreate the essence of France in your own kitchen. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through 20 delectable French recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
From classic comfort foods like Coq au Vin and Quiche Lorraine, to sweet treats like Tarte Tatin and Chocolate Soufflë, our collection of French recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
So let’s get started on this culinary adventure and explore the flavors of France together!
French Onion Soup
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions, melted cheese, and savory broth with this classic French Onion Soup recipe. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil and cook until the onions are softened, about 8 minutes.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the onions are dark golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Preheat broiler. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with a toasted baguette slice and a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese.
4. Place under broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ratatouille
Ratatouille, a French vegetable stew from Provence, is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe brings together tender vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic herbs to create a true culinary delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss eggplant, zucchini, and red bell pepper with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add garlic, tomatoes, and roasted vegetables to the pan.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped thyme (if using).
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coq au Vin
Coq au Vin, a classic French recipe, is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines chicken, mushrooms, onions, and bacon in a rich red wine sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Côtes du Rhône)
– 1/4 cup cognac (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Cook bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside.
4. Add onions and mushrooms to the pot; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, cognac (if using), tomato paste, garlic, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return chicken to the pot and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with crispy bacon and crusty bread.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Quiche Lorraine
A classic French dish, Quiche Lorraine is a versatile and flavorful breakfast, lunch, or dinner option. This recipe combines eggs, cream, and cheese with the richness of bacon for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Sprinkle the Gruyère cheese evenly over the pie crust.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese.
7. Top with cooked bacon.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crêpes Suzette
A French culinary masterpiece, Crêpes Suzette is a delicate crepe filled with a sweet and tangy orange butter sauce. This recipe yields 8-10 crêpes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Orange butter sauce (see below)
– Fresh raspberries or strawberries, for garnish
Orange Butter Sauce:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add melted butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Brush with a little butter.
4. Pour in batter and tilt to evenly coat the pan.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until edges start to curl.
6. Loosen with a spatula and flip.
7. Spoon orange butter sauce on top of crêpe, then roll up and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
8. Serve warm with fresh raspberries or strawberries.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Boeuf Bourguignon
Boeuf Bourguignon, a French classic, is a hearty beef stew cooked in red wine and broth, resulting in tender meat and rich flavors. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or short ribs
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or similar)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add red wine, broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Salade Niçoise
Salade Niçoise is a Provençal-inspired salad originating from Nice, France. This classic recipe combines fresh greens, succulent tuna, and creamy egg with the unmistakable flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach)
– 1 can of tuna in olive oil, drained
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup Niçoise olives, pitted
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens.
2. Arrange tuna, eggs, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and Niçoise olives on top of the greens.
3. Drizzle with Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tarte Tatin
Tarte Tatin is a French dessert that’s both elegant and effortless. This upside-down apple tart has been a beloved classic for generations, and with this simple recipe, you can create it in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 Golden Delicious apples, peeled and halved
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add apple halves to the skillet, cooking for 5-7 minutes or until they start to caramelize.
4. Sprinkle flour and salt over apples, then add cream/milk. Stir until mixture thickens.
5. Roll out pie crust and place over the apples. Tuck edges under the apples.
6. Brush egg wash over the crust.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a plate.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Potato Dauphinoise
A rich and creamy potato dish originating from the south of France, Potato Dauphinoise is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and grated Gruyère cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour the cream mixture over the potato mixture and season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Chocolate Soufflé
Elevate your dessert game with this classic French recipe that yields a light-as-air, richly flavored chocolate soufflé. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (115g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces (225g) high-quality dark chocolate chips or chopped bar, melted
– 3 large egg whites
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1-quart soufflé dish and coat with granulated sugar.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, milk, and salt. Add egg yolks one at a time, whisking until smooth.
3. Melt chocolate in microwave or double boiler. Stir into egg yolk mixture.
4. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold into chocolate mixture with a rubber spatula.
5. Pour into prepared soufflé dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and set.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Croque Monsieur
The Croque Monsieur is a rich and satisfying French-inspired sandwich that combines the creamy richness of béchamel sauce with the savory flavors of ham and melted cheese. This classic recipe is a staple in French cuisine, perfect for a cozy dinner or elegant brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of baguette
– 2 tablespoons of butter, divided
– 1/2 cup of grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup of ham, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup of béchamel sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each baguette slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with ham, Gruyère cheese, and a spoonful of béchamel sauce.
5. Top with another baguette slice, butter-side up.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Pissaladière
A classic Provençal dish from southern France, Pissaladière is a savory tart filled with caramelized onions, olives, and anchovies. This recipe yields a deliciously flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 12 anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped (optional)
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Spread cooked onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Top with olives and anchovies (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold pastry edges up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush edges with water and sprinkle with thyme leaves.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steak Frites
Savor the rich flavors of a perfectly cooked steak paired with crispy fries, a timeless combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs ribeye or strip loin steak (1-2 inches thick)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into long strips
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: garlic butter or thyme for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached. Transfer to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, fry the potatoes in batches in hot vegetable oil until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve the steak with warm fries and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Chicken Provençal
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines chicken with the essence of Provence, this recipe is a staple of French cuisine. Chicken Provençal is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to low and add minced garlic, white wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over each breast.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
French Apple Cake
This classic French dessert is a perfect combination of tender apples, moist cake, and crumbly streusel topping. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Streusel topping (see below)
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and melted butter.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Add sliced apples and mix until they are evenly distributed.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Top with streusel topping (see below).
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Streusel Topping:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
2. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
3. Sprinkle topping evenly over the apple mixture before baking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Escargot in Garlic Butter
Classic Escargot in Garlic Butter Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of France with this delectable escargot recipe, perfectly balanced by a garlicky butter sauce. This beloved dish is sure to impress your dinner guests!
Ingredients:
– 12 large snails, rinsed and patted dry
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Arrange snails in a baking dish, leaving some space between each snail.
4. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the snails, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. If using white wine, drizzle it over the snails.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 10-12 minutes or until snails are cooked through.
7. Remove foil and sprinkle with parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
French Lentil Salad
A classic French salad that combines the comfort of lentils with the brightness of fresh herbs and a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and cook according to package instructions with 2 cups of water until tender.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar and olive oil.
3. Add the cooked lentils, chopped onion, garlic, and parsley to the bowl.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including cooking time for lentils)
Clafoutis
A traditional French dessert, clafoutis is a warm, comforting fruit pudding that’s perfect for any time of year. This apricot version is a delicious and easy-to-make twist on the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the apricots and vanilla extract.
6. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baguette with Brie and Jam
Transform a classic baguette into a sweet and savory masterpiece by pairing it with creamy brie cheese and a hint of fruity jam. Perfect as an appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 tbsp fig jam or other fruit jam
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, slice the brie cheese into thin wedges.
5. Spread a small amount of fig jam onto each toasted baguette slice.
6. Top with a wedge of brie cheese.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent chocolate mousse recipe, perfect for impressing friends and family. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be rewarded with a rich and creamy treat that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate craving.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and sugar until frothy.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Gently fold in the whipped cream until no white streaks remain.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a cool and creamy treat that requires no cooking whatsoever.
Summary
Discover the essence of French cuisine with these 20 simple and easy recipes. From classic comfort foods to elegant desserts, this collection has something for everyone. Savor the flavors of French Onion Soup, Ratatouille, and Coq au Vin, or try your hand at baking Quiche Lorraine and Tarte Tatin. For a sweet treat, indulge in Chocolate Soufflé or French Apple Cake. With these recipes, you’ll be transported to the streets of Paris without leaving your kitchen. Bon appétit!