Tarragon Vinaigrette: The Secret to Bold Salads

If you’re looking to elevate your salads with something truly special, try Tarragon Vinaigrette. This dressing brings a refreshing twist to the classic vinaigrette with its bright, slightly sweet, and subtly licorice-like flavor, thanks to the tarragon.

Tarragon vinaigrette recipe

Tarragon vinaigrette is a flavorful salad dressing that represents the essence of French culinary refinement. This classic French dressing combines the distinctive anise-like flavor of tarragon with perfectly balanced acidic and oil components to create a versatile condiment.

The uniqueness of tarragon vinaigrette lies in its aromatic complexity. Fresh tarragon provides distinctive notes that elevate ordinary salads into memorable dishes. Here’s how to make the tarragon vinaigrette:

Tarragon vinaigrette

A bright, elegant dressing that perfectly balances the distinctive anise-like flavor of fresh tarragon with tangy white wine vinegar and smooth Dijon mustard.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Course Condiment

Cuisine French

Servings 4

Calories 80 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey optional, for a touch of sweetness
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper.
• Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsified dressing.
• Add the chopped tarragon and stir until combined.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Enjoy it immediately, or store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good shake or stir before using if it has separated.

Keyword French vinaigrette, healthy salad dressing, homemade salad dressing, Tarragon vinaigrette

How to serve and pair

1. Salad Pairings

• Green salad:
  • Cooked chicken
  • Walnuts
  • Apples
  • Dried cranberries
• Bean salad: A mix of white beans:
  • Garbanzos
  • Cannellini
• Spring salad:
  • Tender greens
  • Radishes
  • Asparagus
• Lentil salad

2. Vegetables: Steamed or grilled vegetables:

• Steamed asparagus
• Green beans
• Roasted vegetables

3. Protein Pairings

• Tuna Salad: Swap mayonnaise for tarragon dressing for a lighter, herby twist.
• Poached seafood like shrimp or salmon enhances the natural flavors.
• Grilled chicken: Drizzle on grilled chicken for a boost of tarragon’s unique taste.

Variations

1. Herb-Infused Tarragon Salad Dressing

• Use sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
• Add parsley and shallots
• Balance the strong flavor of tarragon and adds freshness

2. Tarragon Lemon Vinaigrette:

• Add lemon juice to add brightness to the dressing
• Ideal for seafood salads or grilled chicken

3. Creamy Tarragon Vinaigrette

• Add plain yogurt or Greek or coconut
• Perfect for drizzling over salads with hearty vegetables like asparagus and radishes

4. Spicy Version

• Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce
• Suitable for more robust salads or grilled meats

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