There’s a reason why we find ourselves gravitating to Provence in the summer – not only does the French Riviera have outstanding weather, it also boasts possibly the greatest summer food in the world. In comparison with the rest of France, the food of Provence is rather lighter – heavy fats like cream make way for olive oil, with a focus on incredible fish, fruits and vegetables rather than meat. The local climate is perfect for growing a whole range of ingredients – orchard fruits like apples and pears, stone fruits, summer berries and melons all grow in abundance, and though Italy holds a famous reputation for great tomatoes, there may be nowhere better to eat a fresh tomato than in Provence during the height of the season.
When the British summer arrives and the sun is beating down on us, it’s always the south of France that we long for. Fortunately, there’s no reason why we can’t have our cake and eat it, albeit from some 600 miles away. In Mark Dodson, the UK has a master of French cookery; before moving to Devon with his wife Sarah and winning a Michelin star at The Mason’s Arms in Knowstone, Mark was head chef at the three-Michelin-starred Waterside Inn in Bray – arguably the most accomplished, celebrated French restaurant in the country. So, who better to turn to when we’re pining for Provence? Mark has rustled up three classic Provencal recipes for us, so we can all enjoy the British summer with a certain je ne sais quoi. Take a look at them below.
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3 of our favourite Provençal recipes for summer