Tired of the same old salad dressings? Ready to elevate your lunchtime greens from blah to breathtaking? Then look no further! This homemade tarragon salad dressing recipe is the perfect solution for adding a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor to any salad. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a quick weekend lunch. This recipe is a staple for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, and it's guaranteed to become one of your best recipes. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a sweeter taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup loosely packed)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, chopped tarragon, Dijon mustard, minced shallot, and minced garlic. If using, add the honey or maple syrup at this stage.
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Season: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want more vinegar for tanginess or more honey for sweetness, depending on your preference.
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Emulsify: Whisk vigorously until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified. This means the oil and vinegar will combine to create a slightly thicker, creamier texture.
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Rest (Optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and let the dressing rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
Tips for the Best Tarragon Salad Dressing:
- Fresh Tarragon is Key: Using fresh tarragon makes all the difference. Dried tarragon lacks the bright, vibrant flavor of fresh.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of vinegar, honey/maple syrup, and seasoning to suit your personal preferences.
- Make it Ahead: This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Lemon Tarragon: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon for a brighter, citrusy twist.
- Creamy Tarragon: Stir in 2 tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier, richer dressing.
- Spicy Tarragon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
This delicious and easy tarragon salad dressing is perfect for adding a touch of elegance and flavor to your everyday meals. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming a simple salad into a delicious dish. Enjoy!