mesclun
The English phrase "mixed greens" translates to French as mesclun.
mesclun refers to a salad blend consisting of several different types of young, tender salad leaves.
Did you know?
- In France, mesclun must follow strict agricultural standards to be labeled as such, often requiring a minimum number of different leaf varieties in the mix.
- The word mesclun is not actually of French origin, but is a loanword from the Occitan language of Southern France. It traces back to the Latin word 'misculāre', which means 'to mix'.
- In French culinary tradition, a mesclun is expected to include more than just leaves. A traditional mixture often includes small, edible flowers like pansies or nasturtiums to add color and a peppery bite.
Examples in context
- Je voudrais un mesclun avec une vinaigrette.I would like a mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette.
- Il reste du mesclun dans le frigo ?Is there any mixed greens left in the fridge?
- Ce mesclun est très frais et croquant.This mixed greens salad is very fresh and crunchy.
Example conversation
Léa and Hugo are preparing lunch in their kitchen.
- HugoLéa, est-ce qu'on a du mesclun ?Léa, do we have any mixed greens?
- LéaOui, j'en ai acheté ce matin.Yes, I bought some this morning.
- HugoParfait, on peut faire une salade.Perfect, we can make a salad.
- LéaD'accord, je sors le mesclun du bac.Okay, I'll take the mixed greens out of the container.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mesclun, CC BY-SA 4.0.
