Mon Petit Four Blog

A collection of French recipes and French lifestyle ideas from the blog Mon Petit Four
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a white bowl filled with potato salad on top of a table
French Potato Salad Recipe
This French potato salad is everything you want in a summer side—light, fresh, and full of flavor. Made with a tangy Dijon vinaigrette instead of mayo, it’s a healthier take on a classic that doesn’t skimp on taste. Tossed with fresh herbs like tarragon and chives, this simple yet elegant dish is perfect for backyard BBQs, picnics, or even a casual French-inspired dinner. Whether you're a fan of Ina Garten's version or just want to try something new, this easy recipe is sure to impress.
prosciutto melon salad on a white plate with basil garnish
Prosciutto Melon Salad (Charentais)
This French-inspired prosciutto melon salad is the ultimate summer bite. Made with fragrant Charentais melon and delicate slices of prosciutto, it’s a no-fuss dish that feels effortlessly elegant. Just right for warm days and slow afternoons.
people walking down the street with an american flag in the foreground and text that reads 8 things i love about being american
8 Things I Love About Being American
In this week’s episode, I’m sharing a personal reflection on what I truly love about America in honor of the Fourth of July. Now that I’m back in California after some time abroad, I’ve been thinking a lot about the things that make the U.S. feel special to me. From the everyday friendliness and warmth of people to our generous spirit, this episode is all about appreciating the good. If you’ve been feeling a bit disillusioned or just want a reminder of what’s worth celebrating, I hope this…
In this week’s episode of The Life of a Bon Vivant, I’m diving into the contrast between the tightly scheduled fast-paced American lifestyle and the more relaxed go with the flow vibe I often experience in France. It all started with an Instagram post that made me realise how often we carry our structured routines with us even when we’re trying to escape them. But living in flow isn’t about avoiding responsibility, it’s about lightening our mental load and making space for more spontaneity, presence and joy. Through some personal stories and gentle encouragement, I’m reminding us both that creating a more intentional and balanced life doesn’t require a change in location, just a shift in mindset.
Going With the Flow
In this week’s episode of The Life of a Bon Vivant, I’m diving into the contrast between the tightly scheduled fast-paced American lifestyle and the more relaxed go with the flow vibe I often experience in France. It all started with an Instagram post that made me realise how often we carry our structured routines with us even when we’re trying to escape them. But living in flow isn’t about avoiding responsibility, it’s about lightening our mental load and making space for more spontaneity…
Stone fruit season is the perfect excuse to bake something beyond the usual cobbler or pie. This nectarine crumb cake is my go-to summer treat — juicy, aromatic, and the perfect mix of soft cake and sweet fruit. It's like the best of cake and pie in one bite!
Nectarine Crumb Cake – A Sweet Summer Surprise
Stone fruit season is the perfect excuse to bake something beyond the usual cobbler or pie. This nectarine crumb cake is my go-to summer treat — juicy, aromatic, and the perfect mix of soft cake and sweet fruit. It's like the best of cake and pie in one bite!
In this week’s episode, I’m diving into something that might seem simple or superficial but actually says a lot about how we show up in the world: getting dressed up each day before heading out. I’m not talking about full-on glam, but choosing something with a bit more care than the usual comfy clothes we wear at home. I share how even the most simple outfit can shift your energy, boost your confidence, and set the tone for your day.
Why Getting Dressed Up Matters
In this week’s episode, I’m diving into something that might seem simple or superficial but actually says a lot about how we show up in the world: getting dressed up each day before heading out. I’m not talking about full-on glam, but choosing something with a bit more care than the usual comfy clothes we wear at home. I share how even the most simple outfit can shift your energy, boost your confidence, and set the tone for your day.
When your fridge feels empty and time is short, these French-style eggs in tomato sauce come to the rescue. Known as oeufs à la provencale in France, this comforting dish is made with simple everyday ingredients like eggs, tomatoes, olive oil and bread. It’s one of those meals I turn to again and again because it’s hearty, satisfying and surprisingly elegant for something so easy. Perfect for a quick dinner or cozy brunch moment. Grab the recipe and make this your next go-to miracle meal. Cozy Brunch, French Lifestyle, Petit Four, Petit Fours, French Food, Quick Dinner, Tomato Sauce, Sauce
Eggs in Tomato Sauce (Oeufs à la provencal)
When your fridge feels empty and time is short, these French-style eggs in tomato sauce come to the rescue. Known as oeufs à la provencale in France, this comforting dish is made with simple everyday ingredients like eggs, tomatoes, olive oil and bread. It’s one of those meals I turn to again and again because it’s hearty, satisfying and surprisingly elegant for something so easy. Perfect for a quick dinner or cozy brunch moment. Grab the recipe and make this your next go-to miracle meal.
In this week’s episode, I dive into the idea of embracing the soft life and why stepping away from hustle culture can be an act of self-care. I open up about my own experience with burnout and that quiet disconnection that often goes unnoticed. From recognizing the signs to offering simple and intentional ways to reset, this episode is a gentle reminder that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is pause, breathe, and return to what brings you joy and ease. Life Coaching, Huangshan, Finding Inner Peace, Mental Clarity, Life Balance, Mental Wellness, Physical Health, Nervous System, Time Management
Burnt Out? Let Yourself Pause
In this week’s episode, I dive into the idea of embracing the soft life and why stepping away from hustle culture can be an act of self-care. I open up about my own experience with burnout and that quiet disconnection that often goes unnoticed. From recognizing the signs to offering simple and intentional ways to reset, this episode is a gentle reminder that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is pause, breathe, and return to what brings you joy and ease.
oranges and other pastries on a white plate
Oranais aux abricots (French Apricot Pastry)
I adore summer for the fruit alone, with juicy peaches, plump plums, and especially golden apricots. There’s something magical about biting into ripe fruit straight from nature, but for those of us who love to cook and bake, the temptation to transform that fruit into something even more special is strong. That’s where oranais aux abricots comes in, a classic French pastry made with buttery puff pastry, silky pastry cream, and tender apricot halves. It’s simple, elegant, and the perfect way…
a river with people sitting at tables on it and the words, myths and truth about living in france
Myths and Truths About Living in France
In this week’s episode, I’m giving you a candid look at what everyday life in France is really like beyond the tourist lens. I’m sharing the myths that simply aren’t true and the stereotypes that actually hold up. Tune in to find out which of your beliefs about France and the French might need a little rethinking!
a river with people sitting at tables on it and the words, myths and truth about living in france
Myths and Truths About Living in France
In this week’s episode, I’m giving you a candid look at what everyday life in France is really like beyond the tourist lens. I’m sharing the myths that simply aren’t true and the stereotypes that actually hold up. Tune in to find out which of your beliefs about France and the French might need a little rethinking!
luggage with the words 5 summer essentials to pack for your trip to paris on it
5 Summer Essentials to Pack for Your Trip to Paris
In this week’s episode, I’m sharing my top five must-pack essentials if you’re heading to Paris this summer. These are the things I always bring with me, including practical lifesavers that make all the difference in Paris during the warmer months. If you're going on a trip to the City of Light in the next couple of months, this episode is for you.
the french appetizer for dinner is displayed in front of a table with plates and utensils
French Apéro for Dinner
Looking for a light and effortless French-inspired dinner? A French apéro might be just the thing. From olives and brie en croute to French 75s and homemade touches, get inspired to create a relaxed and elegant spread that feels like a little trip to France.
In this week’s episode, I’m talking about why big, dramatic changes usually leave us feeling overwhelmed and burnt out, and how real, lasting change can be achieved in a better way. From my work coaching women through career and lifestyle shifts, I’ve seen how trying to do it all at once just doesn’t stick. So if you’re feeling stuck or ready for a fresh start, this episode is for you. Habit Books, French Lifestyle, Fresh Start, Feeling Stuck, Life Changes, Coaching, Feelings
The Power of the Gentle Pivot
In this week’s episode, I’m talking about why big, dramatic changes usually leave us feeling overwhelmed and burnt out, and how real, lasting change can be achieved in a better way. From my work coaching women through career and lifestyle shifts, I’ve seen how trying to do it all at once just doesn’t stick. So if you’re feeling stuck or ready for a fresh start, this episode is for you.
fish en papillote on a plate with a fork
Fish en Papillote Recipe
If you want to bake tender, flavorful fish, then you’ll want to try this fish en papillote. Baked inside a sheet of parchment paper, you can expect a mouthwatering, fork-tender piece of fish on your plate.