Provencal cuisine offers a wide range of flavorful and healthy dishes perfectly suited to the Mediterranean lifestyle. The cuisine is based on fresh, seasonal ingredients produced locally, such as vegetables, fruits, fish and herbs. Provencal cuisine is known for its simple, yet flavorful dishes that accurately reflect regional flavors and aromas.
One of the most distinctive ingredients in Provencal cuisine is olive oil, which is often used in place of butter or other fats. Garlic, onion and tomatoes are other common ingredients, as are herbs such as thyme, rosemary, basil and parsley.
One of the best-known Provençal dishes is ratatouille, a stew of stewed vegetables, including zucchini, eggplant, peppers, tomatoes and onion. The dish is often served as a side dish or as a main course with rice or bread.
Another popular dish is bouillabaisse, a fish soup often prepared with different types of fish and shellfish, such as sea bass, mullet, shrimp and mussels. The soup is flavored with garlic, onion, tomatoes, saffron and spices and is usually served with baguette and rouille, a garlic sauce.
Tapenade is another Provençal specialty usually served as an appetizer. It is a dip made from olives, capers, anchovies, garlic and olive oil, and is often served with French bread or crackers.
Pissaladière is a traditional Provençal pie made of dough, onion, anchovies and olives. The dish resembles a pizza, but has a thicker base and a sweet taste from the caramelized onions.
Finally, aioli is a traditional garlic sauce often served with fish dishes. The sauce is made from garlic, egg yolks, mustard, olive oil and lemon juice and has a strong, spicy flavor.
Most of our vacation villas have a well-equipped kitchen where you can cook your own local dishes.
