Are you looking for a flavorful twist to elevate your cooking game? Look no further than tarragon, the sweet and slightly bitter herb that adds depth and complexity to any dish. With its delicate anise flavor, tarragon is a versatile ingredient that can be used in everything from savory sauces to refreshing salads.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these 20 flavorful tarragon recipes have something for everyone. From classic French dishes like Béarnaise sauce and chicken au poivre, to innovative twists on old favorites like shrimp scampi and roasted carrots, we’ve got the perfect recipe to suit your taste.
In this article, we’ll explore the many ways you can use tarragon in your cooking, from savory meats and vegetables to sweet treats and refreshing drinks. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Grilled Chicken with Tarragon Butter
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic twist, featuring the bright, anise-like taste of tarragon.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped tarragon leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and chopped tarragon.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread a pat of tarragon butter on each breast.
6. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Tarragon Mushroom Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the brightness of tarragon, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tsp tarragon leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (5-7 minutes).
3. Add heavy cream, tarragon leaves, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom sauce, and reserved pasta water. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Tarragon Roasted Potatoes
Brighten up your meal with these flavorful and aromatic roasted potatoes infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and the subtle sweetness of tarragon. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped tarragon leaves
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, tarragon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tarragon and Dijon Mustard Salmon
This recipe combines the bright flavors of tarragon with the tangy zip of Dijon mustard to create a delicious and elegant salmon dish. Perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried tarragon
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle tarragon and Dijon mustard evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fresh Tarragon and Herb Salad
Elevate your salad game with this bright and refreshing recipe featuring the anise-flavored tarragon herb. This simple yet flavorful salad is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup fresh tarragon leaves
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, tarragon leaves, and parsley.
2. Crumble feta cheese over the salad, if using.
3. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Tarragon-infused White Wine Sauce
Elevate your dishes with a flavorful and aromatic white wine sauce infused with the subtle anise flavor of tarragon. This versatile sauce is perfect for accompanying poultry, pork, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 sprigs fresh tarragon, chopped
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the white wine, tarragon, and mustard. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the tarragon sprigs.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Classic Béarnaise Sauce with Tarragon
Elevate your dining experience with this rich and flavorful French-inspired sauce, infused with the subtle nuances of tarragon. This iconic condiment is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, fish, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) egg yolks
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) melted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, whisk together egg yolks and vinegar until smooth.
2. Slowly melt the butter into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped tarragon leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tarragon and Garlic Roasted Carrots
Elevate your roasted carrots with the brightness of tarragon and the depth of garlic. This flavorful side dish is perfect for accompanying a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, garlic, and tarragon until evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the carrots during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tarragon Shrimp Scampi
This Tarragon Shrimp Scampi recipe adds a hint of anise-flavored tarragon to the classic scampi dish, elevating it to new heights. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped tarragon leaves
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. If using wine and cream, add to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with tarragon and sauce (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Tarragon and Chive Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled eggs game with a hint of sophistication from tarragon and chive! This flavorful twist on the classic snack is sure to impress at any gathering.
Tarragon Honey Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory Tarragon Honey Glazed Ham, perfect for serving to a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons tarragon syrup or fresh tarragon leaves
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, tarragon syrup or fresh tarragon leaves, brown sugar, mustard, cloves, and salt until well combined.
3. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the ham on a roasting rack or a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil.
5. Brush the honey-tarragon glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. If using pineapple juice, pour it into the bottom of the pan and cover with foil.
7. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until a meat thermometer reaches 140°F.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Tarragon and Lemon Roasted Chicken
Tarragon and Lemon Roasted Chicken: A Bright and Savory Twist on Classic Roast Chicken
This recipe combines the warm, herbaceous flavor of tarragon with the bright, citrusy zing of lemon to create a uniquely delicious roast chicken. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped tarragon leaves
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, tarragon leaves, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. If using white wine, pour it into the roasting pan during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tarragon Butter Steak with Herbs
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter and herbs with the tenderness of a perfectly cooked cut. 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 parsley
– 1 tsp chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, tarragon, parsley, and chives.
4. Spread half of the herb butter mixture onto one side of the steak.
5. Place the steak in the oven and cook for 12-15 minutes or until it reaches desired doneness.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving with remaining herb butter.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
Tarragon-infused Olive Oil Bread
Elevate your bread game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe, featuring the subtle tang of tarragon and the richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon tarragon-infused olive oil (see note)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, tarragon-infused olive oil, and salt to the mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Note: To make tarragon-infused olive oil, combine 1/4 cup olive oil with 2 sprigs of fresh tarragon in a small bowl. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Strain the mixture before using.
Tarragon and Shallot Vinaigrette
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and aromatic vinaigrette, featuring the sweet and tangy combination of tarragon and shallots. This recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or as a finishing touch for your favorite salads.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon leaves
– 1 small shallot, finely minced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, tarragon leaves, and shallot.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Add Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the vinaigrette to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, just blend and enjoy!
Tarragon and Goat Cheese Tart
This elegant tart combines the creamy richness of goat cheese with the subtle anise flavor of tarragon, perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tsp dried tarragon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese, butter, and tarragon. Spread the mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal. Brush with a little water and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tarragon Cream Sauce for Pasta
Elevate your pasta dish with the subtle anise flavor of tarragon and the richness of cream. This recipe is a perfect accompaniment to pappardelle, fettuccine, or any other long-shaped pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the chopped tarragon leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the sauce over cooked pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tarragon and Cucumber Yogurt Dip
This creamy dip is perfect for hot summer days when you need a refreshing snack to cool down. With the subtle flavor of tarragon and the crunch of cucumber, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cucumber and tarragon.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Add the yogurt mixture to the cucumber-tarragon mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional tarragon leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
Tarragon and Apple Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with a sweet and savory twist by stuffing them with sautéed apples, onions, and tarragon. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 1/2 pounds)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onion and apple in butter until tender.
3. Add olive oil, honey, mustard, and tarragon; stir to combine.
4. Butterfly the pork chops and divide the filling among them.
5. Roll and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tarragon-infused Iced Tea
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing and flavorful tarragon-infused iced tea recipe, perfect for hot days or as a revitalizing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea
– 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Bring the quart of water to a boil.
2. Add the loose-leaf black tea and let it steep for 3-5 minutes, or until desired strength is reached.
3. Remove the tea leaves and add the fresh tarragon leaves. Let it infuse for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a large pitcher to remove the tarragon leaves.
5. If desired, add honey to taste and stir well.
6. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Serve over ice cubes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Elevate your cooking with these 20 delicious recipes featuring tarragon, an aromatic herb that adds depth and complexity to any dish. From classic béarnaise sauce to tarragon-infused white wine sauce, creamy pasta dishes to flavorful grilled meats, and even sweet treats like honey-glazed ham and apple-stuffed pork chops, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to impress.
Leave a Reply