Make every salad a special occasion with this French tarragon and shallot vinaigrette. Fresh, flavorful, and just a whisk away.
A perfect blend of fragrant tarragon and sharp, subtly sweet shallots, this vinaigrette brings a burst of herby freshness to any salad.
This vinaigrette is awesome for two reasons – first, because of how easy it is to make, and secondly for its ability to elevate even the most basic greens to a chic culinary experience. The aromatic tarragon, a staple in French cooking (and hopefully yours soon), pairs wonderfully with the mellow bite of shallots, creating a balance that is both refreshing, elegant and deeply flavorful. 
Ideal for a light lunch salad or as an accompaniment to a dinner spread, this vinaigrette is a versatile weapon in your culinary arsenal. Drizzle over crisp lettuce, tender baby spinach, or a medley of roasted vegetables – and enjoy the oohs and aahs around your table.
Step by Step Guide to Making French Tarragon and Shallot Vinaigrette
- Mix Vinegar, Shallot, and Tarragon: In a small bowl, combine white wine vinegar, minced shallot, and finely chopped fresh tarragon. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the vinegar to slightly soften the shallot and infuse with the tarragon.
-
Add Mustard: Stir in a teaspoon of whole grain mustard. This adds a subtle spice and helps in emulsifying the dressing.
-
Emulsify with Olive Oil: Slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil in a steady, thin stream while continuously whisking. This process will help to emulsify the dressing, giving it a thicker, more cohesive consistency.
-
Season: Season your vinaigrette with sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference.
-
Serve or Store: Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake well before using if stored.
Recipe Notes:
- Fresh tarragon is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but dried tarragon can be used in a pinch.
- For a smoother dressing, you can finely chop or even blend the shallot for a more integrated flavor.
- Adjust the mustard to your liking, adding more for a stronger flavor if desired.
French Tarragon and Shallot Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3/4 cup 1x
Description
Make every salad a special occasion with this French Tarragon and Shallot Vinaigrette. Fresh, flavorful, and just a whisk away.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced shallot
- t tablespoon finely chopped fresh tarragon
- 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- sea salt and freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Mix Vinegar, Shallot, and Tarragon: In a small bowl, combine white wine vinegar, minced shallot, and finely chopped fresh tarragon. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the vinegar to slightly soften the shallot and infuse with the tarragon.
- Add Mustard: Stir in a teaspoon of whole grain mustard. This adds a subtle spice and helps in emulsifying the dressing.
- Emulsify with Olive Oil: Slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil in a steady, thin stream while continuously whisking. This process will help to emulsify the dressing, giving it a thicker, more cohesive consistency.
- Season: Season your vinaigrette with sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference.
- Serve or Store: Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake well before using if stored.
Notes
- Fresh tarragon is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but dried tarragon can be used in a pinch.
- For a smoother dressing, you can finely chop or even blend the shallot for a more integrated flavor.
- Adjust the mustard to your liking, adding more for a stronger flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Whisking
- Cuisine: French
Does that mean 1 Tablespoon of Tarragon?