Chicken breast bruschetta with zucchini and pistou

Chicken breast bruschetta with zucchini and pistou

This very green bruschetta is a variation of the classic tomato bruschetta. Pistou is the French equivalent of the Italian pesto; there is no cheese nor pine nuts but a generous amount of fresh basil. Serve with a side salad and tomatoes for a healthy and balanced lunch.2 servings2 large slices of rustic country bread 2 small organic chicken breasts1 small...

Mont Lion from Tourette-du-Château

Mont Lion from Tourette-du-Château

Mont Lion (1050 m) above the Esteron River Valley can be reached from Gilette or Tourette-du-Château (900 m). We have climbed to Mont Lion a few times from Gilette, and wanted to explore the shorter route from the perched village of Tourette-du-Château by the D27 road. We walked past the church to signpost #45, descended to a wide track...

Smoked salmon and egg toast on creamy spinach

Smoked salmon and egg toast on creamy spinach

 This easy recipe makes a delightful and quick lunch. Serve it with a mixed side salad for a balanced meal.2 servings2 whole wheat toastsOlive oil120 g smoked salmon, preferably wild Alaska salmon2 soft-cooked organic eggs2-3 handfuls of organic baby spinach leaves50 ml chicken stock2 tbsp. crème fraîche or creamFreshly ground black pepperPreheat the oven to 200°C, roast.Cook the eggs...

Mont Viroulet

Mont Viroulet

 Mont Viroulet (1864 m), as shown in the image above, has a forested northern flank and a quasi-bare and grassy southern face. Located above the Bramafam Valley (Valdeblore), the mountain can be easily reached from several points in the valley. We chose to start from La Colmiane (1500 m) but the village of St-Dalmas Valdeblore (1290 m) is another popular...

Polenta, bell pepper, egg, and pistou salad

Polenta, bell pepper, egg, and pistou salad

 Here in Nice, we are lucky to be able to buy ready-made polenta in nice slices. You only need to reheat them for about 10 minutes in the oven and they make a nice side to many recipes.If you cannot find ready-made polenta slices, cook it according to the advice on the package, pour into a tray about 1...

Another loop above Tourrettes-sur-Loup

Another loop above Tourrettes-sur-Loup

Sometimes you can find new hiking itineraries even in well-explored areas by keeping your eyes open when hiking, and by studying maps. You can also find alternative routes on several good web sites, such as https://mercantour.info/ and https://www.visorando.com/. Besides being most charming, the village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup certainly ticks most boxes when it comes to hiking.We have previously done a loop...

Cod and spinach gratin

Cod and spinach gratin

This simple recipe is a great way to make fresh cod or other firm white fish more interesting.2 servings2 pieces of cod fillet, dos de cabillaudOlive oil½ medium onion, chopped1 clove garlic, minced2 handfuls of baby spinach leaves, pref. organic2 tsp. Dijon mustardFreshly ground black pepper2 tbsp. dry bread crumbsWarm 1 tbsp. olive oil over medium- low heat in...

La Colmiane: Hike to Baus de la Frema

La Colmiane: Hike to Baus de la Frema

The small ski resort of la Colmiane (1500 m) is not dormant during the summer season. There are activities such as a zip line, toboggan track, rock climbing etc. For hikers, there are lots of options ranging from leisurely walks to strenuous high mountain adventures. Further advantages of the resort are an easy access, large parking area, and cafeterias...

Roasted aubergine and tomato compote

Roasted aubergine and tomato compote

 Aubergines and tomatoes are a classic combination. This dish has Eastern Mediterranean flavours from sumac, a delicious dark red spice from red berries of a Mediterranean shrub. In the Easter Mediterranean, sumac is sprinkled on warm pitas, grilled meats, and salads. In Nice, you’ll find sumac in well- stocked supermarkets.Tomatoes concassées are easy to make: simply dip tomatoes in...