French Tarragon and Shallot Vinaigrette

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

1. 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.

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   Add Mustard: Stir in a teaspoon of whole grain mustard. This adds a subtle spice and helps in emulsifying the dressing.

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   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.

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   Season: Season your vinaigrette with sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference.

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   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

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5 from 2 reviews

• Author: Linda Schneider
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: Makes about 1/2 cup 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Bright, herbaceous, and utterly delightful, this French vinaigrette elevates any salad.
Ready in minutes, its the perfect way to add a touch of elegance to your meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp minced shallot
• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh tarragon
• 1 tsp whole grain mustard
• 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• sea salt and freshly ground pepper

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine white wine vinegar, minced shallot, and finely chopped fresh tarragon. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in a teaspoon of whole grain mustard.
3. Slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil in a steady, thin stream while continuously whisking.
4. Season with sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake well before using if stored.

Notes

• For a smoother vinaigrette, strain the mixture after infusing the shallot and tarragon.
• Substitute Dijon mustard for whole grain mustard for a milder flavor.
• Store leftover vinaigrette in the refrigerator for up to a week; it will thicken slightly.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: French-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 1
• Sodium: 100
• Fat: 6
• Saturated Fat: 1
• Unsaturated Fat: 5
• Carbohydrates: 1

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