Can I swap the anchovies for fish sauce in the dressing or is that like playing with fire?

Nope.

well it won’t be a salad nicoise

anchovies are optional. Much debated but not needed.

Don’t put fish sauce on it though. No.

The nicois bit refers to the olives so in theory yes, but that’s like taking the mashed potato out of course cottage or Shepards pie. If you don’t like anchovies then just have a green salad with potatoes, olives and green beans.

As above, you can leave them out but thats a different salad. I don’t like anchovies either but tolerate them mixed into a Ceasers dressing. I never order a Niscoise.

Alternatively, do what you want and like! They’re not rules, more like guidelines and I don’t think the hand of he who shall not be believed will smite you for customising a salad.

It’s your world OP, your universe, your life…. be free! 😀

Thanks, I’m very tempted by the anchovies as I’ve never eaten them before except in pre made stuff, plus I’ve heard they enhance the flavour rather than take over. Ill stead clear of the fish sauce

Make whatever salad you like and give it a name.

Fish sauce and lime juice make for a nice simple se Asian dressing

The great thing about cooking in your own home, is you can do whatever you like, and call it whatever you want.