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French-Inspired Ideas

French-Inspired Ideas

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French Baguette

Anna Wiliiams

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July 14 is Bastille Day. Whether you're planning a celebration or simply want to revel in all things Gallic, we think you'll enjoy these French-inspired recipes, crafts, and decor ideas any time of year. Vive la France!The baguette is probably France's most beloved export. Beneath the crisp, brittle crust of a baguette is an airy crumb and a rich, nutty flavor, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

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Kir Royales

DANA GALLAGHER

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France's famous kir royale (black-currant liqueur and Champagne) makes a perfect cocktail for your summer soiree.

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Perfect Roast Chicken

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For tender meat and a crisp, golden brown skin in about an hour, high-heat oven roasting is the way to go.

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Striped Baskets

Ditte Isager

These easy-to-make baskets look like they were plucked from a French open-air market.

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Croque Madame Sandwiches

Didn’t think a great grilled cheese could get any better? Think again! Everyday Food editor Sarah Carey shows you how to make the comforting classic more deliciously dinner-worthy.Get the Croque Madame Sandwiches Recipe

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Steak with Shoestring Fries

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Another bistro classic, this is the ultimate French comfort meal.

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French Wines

You'll never run out of great French wines to try, which means learning about them can easily become a lifelong pleasure.

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French Almond Macaroons

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Transport yourself to Paris with one bite of these dreamy cookies that have a crisp exterior and slightly chewy center. They almost as pretty to look at as they are delicious to eat.

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Bouillabaisse

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In the French manner, bouillabaisse is served in two courses: the soup first and then the fish. It is just as good when fish and soup are served together.

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Duxelles Spread

Ellie Miller

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Duxelles, named for the seventeenth-century French Marquis d'Uxelles, is an adaptable, delectable mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, shallots, and herbs.

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Lavender Spritzer

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The star ingredient in this summery sip is the herb synonomous with the South of France: lavender.

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Flag Berry Tarts

GENTL & HYERS

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Salute the French flag by making this trio of tarts that will have people guessing if you own your own French patisserie.

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French Courtyard Table

Set a thoroughly charming table inspired by French linens and flowers. Flower sack fabric covers folding chairs; small bouquets of roses dot the table. French lemons and bottles of water are the only other adornment.

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Moules Mariniere

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Shallots, butter, thyme, and white wine give classic flavor to this easy, casual, and traditional dish. Serve with a crusty baguette to soak up the broth.

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Repurposed Linen Sachet

This lovely lavender sachet is a great way to recycle an old piece of linen.

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Pissaladiere

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These savory tarts are a specialty of Nice, in southern France. Traditionally the pissaladiere has a flaky crust, but this crisp crust gives it a lighter taste.

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French 75

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French Champagne gives this gin cocktail a shot of glamour.

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Tuna Nicoise Sandwich

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This sandwich, our take on the French pan bagnat, is perfect for outdoor eating. Its flavor improves when you make it ahead.

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Numbered Drinking Glasses

These whimsical glasses are ideal for serving Lillet -- a French aperitif with a sprig of mint and slice of orange.

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Crepe Basics

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Once you catch the hang of it, the world of crepes is yours. They can inspire a fancy finish to a formal dinner party or the most casual kitchen gathering where guests take turns making crepes, garnishing them however they like, and devouring them on the spot.

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Striped Rug Pillows

Ditte Isager

How to Make the Striped Rug Pillows

stripes in faded blues combine with neutrals and black for a room that's modern and inviting. We used the same rugs to make two kinds of pillows: a large one (bigger than a bed pillow) and a smaller one with an envelope-style opening.

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Pate a Choux

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Use this pate a choux recipe to make mouthwatering French pastries such as profiteroles and eclairs.

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Brioche French Toast

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This French toast is always a big hit at a Bastille Day breakfast.

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French Quarter Cocktails

Sang An

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These rum-and-juice cocktails are our take on a classic New Orleans drink.

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Bistro Pomme Frites

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These crispy bistro-style fries get their signature texture and flavor from cooking twice; once fried and once in the oven.

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