Salad lyonnaise

Salad Lyonnaise is a classic French dish featuring mixed greens, tender potatoes, crispy prosciutto, and poached eggs, all tossed in a sweet and tangy shallot dressing. This harmonious blend of flavours makes it ideal for a light lunch or elegant starter.

16 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

4 potatoes
3 slices prosciutto
1 tbsp olive oil
6 shallots
2 tbsp vinegar
4 eggs
2 tsp brown sugar
2 cups mixed greens (or salad mix)
Salad lyonnaise

Salad Lyonnaise is a classic French dish that beautifully combines the simplicity of mixed greens with the savory richness of potatoes, prosciutto, and eggs. This versatile salad is perfect for a light lunch or a delightful dinner starter, giving you a taste of French cuisine in every bite.

Instructions:

1. Prepare and Cook the Potatoes:
- Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not mushy.
- Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Crisp the Prosciutto:
- In a large skillet, add the chopped prosciutto and cook over medium heat until it becomes crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the prosciutto from the skillet and set aside.
3. Caramelize the Shallots:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook on medium heat until they become soft and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
- Once the shallots are caramelized, add 2 tbsp of vinegar and 2 tsp of brown sugar to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Poach the Eggs:
- Fill a medium-sized pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Crack the eggs one by one into a small bowl and gently slide them into the simmering water. Poach the eggs for about 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny.
- Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the eggs from the water and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
6. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and the cooked potatoes.
- Drizzle the shallot dressing over the greens and potatoes, and toss gently to combine.
- Top with crispy prosciutto.
7. Serve:
- Divide the salad among four serving plates.
- Place a poached egg on top of each salad.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Salad Lyonnaise!

With its balanced combination of tender potatoes, crispy prosciutto, tangy shallots, and perfectly poached eggs, Salad Lyonnaise offers a wonderful culinary experience. The mixed greens add freshness and vibrancy, making this dish both nutritious and delicious. Enjoy your homemade French delight!

Salad lyonnaise FAQ:

How long does it take to make Salad Lyonnaise?

The entire recipe takes just under an hour to prepare, including boiling the potatoes, caramelizing the shallots, poaching the eggs, and assembling the salad.

What type of vinegar works best for the dressing?

A white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar is commonly used in Salad Lyonnaise dressing, but you can adjust based on your taste preferences.

Can I substitute the prosciutto with a different meat?

Yes, you can substitute prosciutto with crispy bacon or pancetta for a similar flavor and texture. For a vegetarian option, consider omitting the meat or using smoked tofu.

How should I store leftover Salad Lyonnaise?

Store leftover salad components separately in airtight containers. The mixed greens and poached eggs should ideally be consumed within a day, while the potatoes and dressing can last in the fridge for 2-3 days.

How do I know when the poached eggs are done?

Poached eggs are done when the whites are set but the yolks remain runny, typically in about 3-4 minutes. You can test doneness by gently touching the surface; it should feel firm but slightly soft.

Tips:

- Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for the best texture, as they hold their shape well during cooking.

- Cook the prosciutto just until crisp to avoid it becoming too chewy or burnt, adding a wonderful crunch to your salad.

- When poaching eggs, add a splash of vinegar to the water to help the egg whites coagulate more quickly.

- Sauté the shallots slowly over medium-low heat to caramelize them, bringing out their natural sweetness and adding depth of flavor to your dressing.

- Toss your mixed greens or salad mix just before serving to ensure they stay crisp and fresh.

- For a different spin, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives to enhance the flavor and add a touch of color.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 280kcal
Protein 14g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 8g
Fat 9g

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