What is it?

A delicate herb that packs a surprisingly bold anise-fennel flavor, tarragon is an essential herb in French cuisine, where it’s a component of the fresh-herb blendfines herbes(along with parsely, chervil and chives). It also adds a fragrant note to creamy sauces such as hollandaise, and vinaigrettes made with tarragon-infused vinegar.

Don’t have it?

Chervil is another delicate herb with a slightly anise-y flavor, though it’s milder than tarragon’s.

How to prep:

Tarragon’s leaves bruise easily, so go gently when chopping. Pull the leaves from the stem, then stack them and give them just a few swipes of the knife.

How to store:

To keep tarragon fresh for a day or two, roll it in damp paper towels, put the roll in a plastic bag, and refrigerate.

Recipes

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  Recipe

  Seared Skirt Steak with Grainy Mustard, Apple, and Tarragon Pan Sauce

  Apples are a traditional partner for pork, but here, their sweetness offsets the intensity of the mustard and complements the robust flavor of the steak.

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  Zucchini Penne with Ricotta

  When summer squash is in abundance, use it up in this creamy, fresh pasta. Dollop the cheese on each serving, and let diners mix it in to create the sauce.

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  Lobster Benedict

  Think eggs Benedict is decadent? Wait until you taste this lobster-centric version from Matt Jennings of Townsman restaurant in Boston.

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  Recipe

  Linguine with Clams, Bacon, and Tarragon

  It’s amazing how the addition of tarragon plays with our notion of classic linguine and clam sauce. The herb makes it feel lighter and more summery.

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  Recipe

  Lemony Peas with Bacon and Tarragon

  Sweet peas play well with smoky bacon and tangy lemon. This makes a stupendous side for seared or grilled salmon or crisp-skinned chicken.

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  Recipe

  Bucatini with Peas, Wild Mushrooms, and Creamy Tarragon Sauce

  Morel mushrooms are a sure sign of spring. There’s no substitute for their nutty flavor and delicate, crisp texture. If you can’t find them fresh, look for dried morels.

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  Recipe

  Roasted Chestnuts and King Oyster Mushrooms with Herbs

  这个超级边让另外一个令人难以置信的tion to a holiday feast. If you can't find king oyster mushrooms, you can substitute shiitakes.

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  Pork Chops with Watercress Mashed Potatoes

  The briny bite of the green peppercorns is essential to this sauce and pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors and textures of the dish. If you don’t have them on…

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  Recipe

  French Potato Salad with White Wine and Tarragon

  A Dijon vinaigrette puts a lighter, brighter spin on potato salad, elevating it a step above your standard picnic fare. The fruity, dry character of Côtes du Rhône Rose balances the intense…

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  Recipe

  Grilled Poussin with Shallot-Balsamic Butter

  Wonderfully aromatic, this French-inspired dish will make you say ooh la la. A poussin is a young, tender chicken that weighs about 1-1/4 lb. If you can't find them, you…