Are you tired of the same old flavors in your cooking? Look no further! Tarragon, a versatile herb with a slightly sweet and anise-like flavor, can add a whole new dimension to your dishes. With its ability to pair well with both savory and sweet ingredients, tarragon is a chef’s best friend when it comes to creating flavorful recipes.
In this article, we will explore 18 delicious and creative ways to use tarragon in your cooking, from classic chicken dishes to decadent desserts. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. So without further ado, let’s dive into the world of tarragon and discover its many uses and flavors.
Classic Tarragon Chicken with Cream Sauce
This elegant dish is a staple of French cuisine, featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich and creamy tarragon-infused sauce. Serve it with steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Melt butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts; cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven; bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and top each breast with chopped tarragon. Pour in heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
7. Simmer sauce over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
8. Serve chicken breasts hot, spooning creamy tarragon sauce over the top. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tarragon-infused Lemon Butter Salmon
Elevate your salmon dish with a bright and tangy flavor profile featuring tarragon, lemon, and butter. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful fish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tsp dried tarragon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, and tarragon.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the tarragon-lemon butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
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
Herbed Tarragon Potato Salad
This classic potato salad gets a boost of flavor from the addition of fresh tarragon and chives, making it a perfect side dish for any summer gathering. With its creamy dressing and tender potatoes, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
Instructions:
1. Place the diced 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 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, tarragon, chives, mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooled potatoes, vinegar, and chopped herbs to the bowl and stir until well combined.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (for boiling potatoes)
Tarragon and Garlic Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your roasted vegetables with the bright, anise-like flavor of tarragon and the pungency of garlic. This recipe is a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a delicious side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and tarragon.
3. Add the sweet potato, carrot, and Brussels sprouts to the bowl. Toss to coat with the tarragon-garlic mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tarragon Mushroom Soup
This rich and comforting soup is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms and bright tarragon flavors, finished with a creamy touch. Serve it as a starter or enjoy it on its own as a cozy treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 8 ounces mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh tarragon, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, and tarragon. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown (5-6 minutes).
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors meld together.
5. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tarragon and Dijon Mustard Glazed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with the perfect blend of French flavors, featuring tarragon and Dijon mustard. This glaze adds a tangy, aromatic twist to the classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon tarragon leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and chopped tarragon.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
5. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tarragon and Chive Deviled Eggs
These flavorful deviled eggs get a boost from the anise-like flavor of tarragon and the oniony zing of chives. Perfect for your next brunch or party, these deviled eggs are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared tarragon
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork until smooth.
3. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, tarragon, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until combined.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle chopped chives on top of each deviled egg.
6. Garnish with paprika or additional chives if desired.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Tarragon-infused White Wine Sauce for Pasta
Tarragon-Infused White Wine Sauce for Pasta: A light and refreshing sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta, this recipe combines the subtle anise flavor of tarragon with the crispness of white wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon leaves
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the white wine and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the tarragon leaves.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has reduced slightly.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Serving Suggestion: Toss cooked pasta with the tarragon-infused white wine sauce and garnish with additional fresh tarragon leaves, if desired.
Tarragon and Lemon Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your backyard barbecue with these flavorful shrimp skewers infused with the bright, citrusy taste of lemon and the subtle earthiness of tarragon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and tarragon.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush grill with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Tarragon and Parmesan Crusted Cod
Tarragon and Parmesan Crusted Cod: A flavorful and elegant seafood dish that combines the brightness of tarragon with the richness of parmesan cheese, perfectly balanced by the delicate flavor of cod.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried tarragon
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together tarragon, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the tarragon mixture evenly over both sides of the cod.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs over the top of each cod fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaky, and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tarragon and Honey Glazed Carrots
A sweet and savory twist on traditional carrots, this recipe pairs the natural sweetness of honey with the subtle anise flavor of tarragon. Perfect as a side dish for your next dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick coins
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 sprigs fresh tarragon, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, butter, and chopped tarragon until well combined.
3. Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot coins in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tarragon and Thyme Roast Chicken
This classic roasted chicken recipe gets a boost of flavor from the bright, anise-like taste of tarragon and the earthy warmth of thyme. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs fresh tarragon
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, butter, tarragon, and thyme.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tarragon and Shallot Butter for Steak
Elevate your steak game with this simple yet flavorful Tarragon and Shallot Butter recipe. This aromatic compound butter is the perfect accompaniment to a grilled or pan-seared steak.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh tarragon leaves
– 1 medium shallot, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped tarragon, and minced shallot until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Remove from the refrigerator about 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
5. Serve chilled, either on its own as a spread or alongside your grilled or pan-seared steak.
Cooking Time: None required – simply chill and serve!
Tarragon and Cucumber Yogurt Dip
A refreshing and light dip perfect for hot summer days, this Tarragon and Cucumber Yogurt Dip is a great accompaniment to pita chips, vegetables, or as a topping for grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, chopped cucumber, and tarragon leaves.
2. Squeeze in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
Tarragon and Basil Pesto
This unique pesto recipe combines the anise-like flavor of tarragon with the bright, herbaceous taste of basil. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip for vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine basil, tarragon, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly chunky.
3. Add garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
4. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
5. Continue processing until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Tarragon and Orange Glazed Ham
Tarragon and Orange Glazed Ham: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Recipe
This glazed ham recipe combines the sweetness of orange marmalade with the subtle anise flavor of tarragon, creating a unique and delicious twist on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 sprigs of fresh tarragon, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together orange marmalade, honey, Dijon mustard, and chopped tarragon.
3. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the fat in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and place the ham in the oven.
6. Cook for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Tarragon and Garlic Butter Bread
Elevate your bread game with this aromatic recipe that combines the subtle flavor of tarragon with the pungency of garlic. Perfect for accompanying soups, salads, or simply as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Mix softened butter with minced garlic and chopped tarragon.
6. Punch down the dough, shape into a round loaf, and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Spread the garlic-tarragon butter mixture evenly over the bread.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tarragon and White Bean Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the subtle anise flavor of tarragon with creamy cannellini beans, perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the cannellini beans, tarragon leaves, and red onion to the bowl. Toss to combine.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, crumble feta cheese on top (if using).
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None, just assemble and chill!
Summary
Discover the flavor of France with these 18 delicious tarragon recipes! From classic dishes like Tarragon Chicken with Cream Sauce to innovative creations like Tarragon-infused Lemon Butter Salmon, there’s something for every taste. Explore herby potato salad, roasted vegetables, creamy soups, and more. These mouthwatering recipes showcase the versatility of tarragon and are sure to elevate your gourmet cooking game.
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