Name: Sauce Vierge Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 5 small tomatoes (Campari), diced; 2 tbsp shallots, minced; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped; 8 basil leaves, chopped; 2 tbsp Kalamata olives, sliced; ¼ cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sauce Vierge is a beautiful combination of fresh, bright ingredients that take any dish to the next level. The sweet and juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and zesty lemon juice bring a burst of flavor, while the addition of Kalamata olives adds a savory depth. It’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of proteins or vegetables and is a great way to enhance the flavor of a simple dish. This method ensures the sauce maintains its freshness, allowing the individual ingredients to shine.

Ingredients

5 small tomatoes (Campari), diced
2 tbsp shallots, minced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped
8 basil leaves, chopped
2 tbsp Kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes

Dice the tomatoes and place them in a colander with a pinch of salt. Allow them to drain for 5–10 minutes to remove excess moisture.

2. Combine the Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the drained tomatoes, shallots, garlic, parsley, tarragon, olives, and basil.

3. Add Olive Oil and Lemon Juice

Pour in the extra-virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

4. Season

Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

5. Let it Rest

Let the sauce rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings of Sauce Vierge. The preparation time is around 10 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes of resting time to allow the flavors to develop.

Variations

Add more olives: For a stronger briny flavor, you can increase the number of Kalamata olives.
Use other herbs: While parsley, tarragon, and basil are classic, you can experiment with mint or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Add capers: For an extra tangy punch, you can add a tablespoon of capers to the sauce.
Use cherry tomatoes: If you prefer a sweeter, more concentrated tomato flavor, substitute Campari tomatoes with cherry tomatoes.

Storage/Reheating

Sauce Vierge is best served fresh to preserve the bright flavors and textures of the tomatoes and herbs. If you need to store leftovers, keep the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Add the fresh basil right before serving to prevent it from turning black. Reheat the sauce gently or serve it cold, depending on your preference.

FAQs

1. Can I make Sauce Vierge ahead of time?

While it’s best to serve the sauce fresh, you can prepare it up to 1 day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the basil right before serving.

2. Can I use different tomatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of tomatoes, like Roma or heirloom tomatoes. However, Campari tomatoes are preferred for their balance of sweetness and acidity.

3. Can I make Sauce Vierge without olives?

Yes, you can omit the olives, though they do add a nice briny contrast to the fresh flavors of the sauce. You can substitute them with capers for a similar salty kick.

4. How long should I let Sauce Vierge rest before serving?

Allow the sauce to rest at room temperature for 30–45 minutes to let the flavors come together.

5. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Just use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh.

6. Can I store Sauce Vierge for longer than a day?

It’s recommended to use Sauce Vierge within 1 day for the best flavor and freshness. The tomatoes and herbs may lose their vibrancy if stored longer.

7. Can I use a different type of olive oil?

Extra-virgin olive oil is ideal for its flavor, but you can substitute with any high-quality olive oil if needed.

8. Can I make this sauce spicier?

If you enjoy spicy flavors, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely diced chili to the sauce.

9. What can I serve Sauce Vierge with?

Sauce Vierge pairs wonderfully with grilled fish, chicken, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad. It’s a versatile sauce that complements many dishes.

10. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too watery?

Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes properly before mixing them with the other ingredients. This will help prevent excess liquid in the sauce.

Conclusion

Sauce Vierge is a simple yet incredibly flavorful addition to any dish. With fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a zesty kick from lemon juice, this sauce is perfect for brightening up grilled fish, chicken, or vegetables. It’s quick to make, vibrant in flavor, and a wonderful way to add a Mediterranean flair to your meals. Give this refreshing sauce a try and bring a burst of flavor to your next meal!