It’s Labor Day in France, or La Fête du Travail. Everyone takes a break from work, which all can appreciate. There’s also the charming tradition of giving loved ones lily of the valley bouquets, called La Fête du Muguet. I have never been in France on May 1st, but I have it on good authority that most bistros do stay open during the holiday, save for a few of the smaller operations.

There are lucky people reading this right now who will find their way into a traditional French bistro or sidewalk café this evening. For the rest of us, should serendipity not nudge us toward France, here is a selection of bistro-inspired, authentic French recipes. Bon appetit!

Easy Bistro Recipes:

• Zesty Tapenade Recipe
• Tuna Nicoise Recipe
• Beef Consommé Recipe
• Asparagus in Tarragon Cream Sauce Recipe
• Chicken à la Diable Recipe
• Chocolate Torte with Blueberry Wine Coulis Recipe

Lily of the Valley Photo: Dimitar Tzankov