Tarragon Mustard Vinaigrette Recipe
Introduction
This tarragon mustard vinaigrette is a bright and flavorful dressing that brings a fresh twist to your salads. With the sharpness of mustard and the herbal aroma of tarragon, it’s simple to make and elevates any greens.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup tarragon (finely chopped)
- 1 small shallot (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon grainy mustard
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste if needed)
Instructions
- Step 1: Finely chop the tarragon and shallot to release their flavors.
- Step 2: Add the chopped tarragon and shallot, both mustards, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and kosher salt into a small jar with a lid.
- Step 3: Close the lid tightly and shake vigorously until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified.
- Step 4: Serve the vinaigrette over your favorite salad or as a marinade for vegetables and meats.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh tarragon for the best flavor; if unavailable, substitute with fresh dill or basil for a different herbal note.
- Adjust the amount of mustard to control the dressing’s sharpness.
- For a smoother dressing, whisk ingredients together instead of shaking.
- Add a pinch of sugar or honey to balance the acidity if desired.
Storage
Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks. Before using, give it a good shake as the oil and vinegar may separate over time.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?
Fresh tarragon provides the best flavor and aroma, but if you only have dried, use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Keep in mind the flavor may be less vibrant.
Is this vinaigrette suitable for other dishes besides salad?
Yes, this vinaigrette works wonderfully as a marinade for grilled chicken or vegetables, or as a tangy sauce drizzle over roasted potatoes.
Print
Tarragon Mustard Vinaigrette Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About ¾ cup vinaigrette (serves 4-6) 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Tarragon Mustard Vinaigrette is a bright and flavorful dressing combining fresh tarragon, shallots, and a blend of grainy and Dijon mustards. Enhanced with red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, it offers a perfect balance of tanginess and herbaceous notes, ideal for elevating any salad.
Ingredients
Herbs and Aromatics
- ¼ cup tarragon (finely chopped)
- 1 small shallot (finely chopped)
Dressing Base
- 1 tablespoon grainy mustard
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste if needed)
Instructions
- Chop Ingredients: Finely chop the fresh tarragon and the small shallot until they are both finely minced to ensure even flavor distribution in the vinaigrette.
- Combine and Shake: Add the chopped tarragon and shallot into a small jar along with the grainy mustard, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, and kosher salt. Close the jar tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well blended and the dressing emulsifies.
- Serve: Pour the vinaigrette over your favorite salad greens or vegetables to enhance their flavor with a fresh, tangy, and herbaceous dressing.
- Store: Keep the vinaigrette refrigerated in the jar with the lid closed. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Adjust salt to taste after mixing as different mustards can vary in saltiness.
- The vinaigrette can be customized by adding a little honey or maple syrup for sweetness if desired.
- Shake well before each use as the oil and vinegar may separate over time.
- Use fresh tarragon for the best flavor; dried tarragon will alter the taste and intensity.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: French
Keywords: Tarragon Mustard Vinaigrette, Salad Dressing, French Vinaigrette, Herb Dressing, Mustard Dressing
