When it comes to herbs, few can match the versatility and aroma of tarragon. This perennial herb has been a staple in French cuisine for centuries, adding its unique anise-like flavor to everything from chicken and fish to salads and sauces. Whether you’re looking to add some zing to your summer dishes or warm up your winter meals, tarragon is the perfect ingredient to have on hand.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious tarragon recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. From classic French dishes like Tarragon Chicken and Tarragon Butter Steak with Rosemary, to creative twists like Roasted Carrots with Honey and Tarragon Glaze and Tarragon-Infused Olive Oil for Dipping Bread, there’s something for every taste and occasion.
So go ahead, get cooking, and let the fragrance of tarragon transport you to a world of culinary delights!
Classic French Tarragon Chicken
This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken, butter, and tarragon to create a dish that’s sure to impress. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a perfect main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, whisk in the heavy cream and chopped tarragon.
6. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Creamy Tarragon Mushroom Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the bright, anise-like taste of tarragon, all wrapped up in a rich and velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil, garlic, and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in chopped tarragon leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the creamy mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Tarragon Grilled Salmon
Lemon Tarragon Grilled Salmon Recipe
=============================
Brighten up your dinner plate with the refreshing flavors of lemon and tarragon! This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp chopped fresh tarragon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and tarragon.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the lemon-tarragon mixture evenly onto both sides of the salmon.
5. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Tarragon and Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your roasted potatoes with the bright, anise-like flavor of tarragon and the pungency of garlic. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with salt and black pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and tarragon.
4. Add the butter mixture to the potatoes and toss until they’re evenly coated.
5. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tarragon-infused White Wine Sauce
Elevate your sauces with this elegant and aromatic Tarragon-infused white wine sauce, perfect for accompanying fish, poultry, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the white wine, butter, tarragon, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce infuse for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Fresh tarragon leaves can be substituted with dried tarragon if fresh is not available.
– This sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.
Fresh Tarragon and Herb Salad Dressing
This refreshing salad dressing combines the subtle anise flavor of tarragon with other herbs to create a unique and delicious condiment perfect for topping salads, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill weed
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add the chopped tarragon, parsley, and dill. Whisk until well combined.
3. Stir in lemon juice and minced garlic.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold dressing.
Tarragon Butter Steak with Rosemary
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of tarragon and the earthiness of rosemary. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tsp chopped fresh tarragon
– 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped tarragon, and chopped rosemary.
3. Season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper.
4. Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the tarragon butter mixture evenly over the steak, making sure to cover the entire surface.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Carrots with Honey and Tarragon Glaze
Roasted Carrots with Honey and Tarragon Glaze
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional roasted carrots, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots while adding a hint of herbal flavor from tarragon.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp tarragon leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the carrot pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast the carrots for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and caramelized.
5. While the carrots are roasting, mix together the honey and chopped tarragon leaves in a small bowl.
6. After the carrots have roasted for 15 minutes, brush them with the honey-tarragon glaze and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tarragon Deviled Eggs with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your deviled eggs game with the subtle, tangy flavor of tarragon and a smoky kick from smoked paprika. This unique twist on a classic recipe will impress at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped chives or scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the eggs, cool them, then cut in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and mash with a fork until smooth.
3. In a bowl, combine the yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, tarragon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Garnish with chopped chives or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold appetizer.
Creamy Tarragon and Dill Cucumber Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the coolness of cucumber with the brightness of tarragon and dill, all tied together with a creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, tarragon, dill, and vinegar until smooth.
2. Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Tarragon-Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Tarragon-Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful and aromatic shrimp skewer recipe, infused with the sweetness of tarragon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped tarragon leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, tarragon, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add shrimp and toss to coat with marinade; season with salt and pepper.
4. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional tarragon leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tarragon and Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, flavorful take on classic stuffed shells. Tarragon and lemon add a bright, herbaceous twist to the richness of ricotta.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, tarragon, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with mozzarella cheese and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Tarragon Beef Stew
A hearty and aromatic stew that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day, this slow-cooked tarragon beef stew is a comforting treat that will warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 sprigs fresh tarragon, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, tarragon, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot or slow cooker and transfer it to the oven (or set the slow cooker to low).
6. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (oven) or 8-10 hours (slow cooker)
Tarragon and Shallot Roasted Turkey Breast
Elevate your holiday meal with this aromatic and flavorful roasted turkey breast, infused with the subtle tang of tarragon and the sweetness of caramelized shallots.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh tarragon, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, butter, shallots, and tarragon.
3. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper.
4. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and spread the shallot-tarragon mixture evenly over the top.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Tarragon-infused Olive Oil for Dipping Bread
Elevate your bread-dipping experience with this aromatic and flavorful Tarragon-Infused Olive Oil.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried tarragon)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small glass jar or container, combine the olive oil and tarragon leaves.
2. Cover the jar with a lid and let it sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. After 24 hours, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another container, pressing on the solids to extract as much oil as possible. Discard the solids.
4. Season the oil with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 24 hours ( infusion time)
This Tarragon-Infused Olive Oil is perfect for dipping crusty bread, grilled meats, or vegetables. The subtle anise flavor of tarragon pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. Enjoy!
Baked Cod with Tarragon and Cherry Tomatoes
A flavorful and healthy seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the cod and sprinkle chopped tarragon leaves evenly.
5. Arrange cherry tomatoes around the cod, leaving a small border between each tomato.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: With a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired) and your choice of side dishes, such as quinoa, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
Tarragon and Chive Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes with the subtle anise flavor of tarragon and the oniony zing of chives. This side dish is perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a comforting accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
– 1 tablespoon chopped chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, heavy cream, tarragon, chives, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Honey-Tarragon Glazed Pork Tenderloin
This sweet and savory glaze elevates the flavor of pork tenderloin, making it perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons tarragon leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, chopped tarragon, and garlic.
3. Brush the glaze all over the pork tenderloin, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tarragon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your mushroom experience with this flavorful and elegant recipe, combining the earthy sweetness of mushrooms with the tanginess of goat cheese and the subtle freshness of tarragon.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together goat cheese and chopped tarragon.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the goat cheese-tarragon mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tarragon and Apple Cider Vinaigrette
This refreshing vinaigrette is perfect for fall and winter salads, combining the subtle anise flavor of tarragon with the warmth of apple cider. This easy-to-make dressing is a great addition to any autumn-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Add chopped tarragon and whisk until the herbs are evenly distributed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking with these 20 fragrant tarragon recipes, perfect for every season! From classic French dishes like Tarragon Chicken and Roasted Potatoes, to innovative creations like Tarragon-Infused White Wine Sauce and Honey-Tarragon Glazed Pork Tenderloin. Discover how this anise-flavored herb can add a fresh twist to pasta dishes, salads, and even deviled eggs. Whether you’re looking for comforting stews or light summer salads, these recipes showcase the versatility of tarragon in both sweet and savory applications.
Leave a Reply