Tarragon Asparagus Salad Recipe

If you’re searching for a salad that practically bursts with spring flavor, look no further than Tarragon Asparagus Salad. This recipe is all about showing off crisp-tender asparagus in its very best light, brightened up with zippy fresh tarragon, tangy red onion, and a lively Dijon vinaigrette. Every bite is a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple elegance, making it a go-to for everything from weekday lunches to festive gatherings.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things blissfully simple, but every ingredient has a purpose. The fresh asparagus brings vibrant color and just the right snap, while the tarragon and tangy dressing give the salad its signature personality. Each component helps create the irresistible flavor and texture of a true springtime favorite.

• Fresh asparagus (1 pound): Choose bright green stalks for optimal flavor and a satisfying crunch in every forkful.
• Red onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced): Adds a hint of sharpness and a lovely pop of color.
• Fresh tarragon (2 tablespoons, chopped): The star herb that brings aromatic, slightly anise-like notes to your salad.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a silky base for the vinaigrette and ties all the flavors together.
• White wine vinegar (1 tablespoon): Lends brightness and balances the richness of the oil and cheese.
• Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Offers a gentle kick and helps emulsify the dressing beautifully.
• Honey (1/2 teaspoon): Just a touch for mellow sweetness in the vinaigrette.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out the natural flavors in every ingredient.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, earthy spice that rounds out the finish.
• Shaved Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, optional): For a rich, nutty finish that’s especially lovely if you’re serving the salad for company.

How to Make Tarragon Asparagus Salad

Step 1: Blanch the Asparagus

Start by bringing a generous pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Pop in the asparagus and let it cook for just 2–3 minutes—enough to turn a brilliant green and keep that delightful crunch. Immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and lock in the color. Drain and gently pat dry so your Tarragon Asparagus Salad stays crisp and fresh.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk up the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. You’ll see the dressing emulsify into a gorgeous, creamy vinaigrette—don’t skip this quick step, as the right dressing is part of what makes Tarragon Asparagus Salad truly shine!

Step 3: Toss the Salad

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the blanched asparagus, thinly sliced red onion, and fragrant, chopped tarragon. Pour over your just-whisked vinaigrette and toss everything together until every spear and slice is coated. You’re nearly there!

Step 4: Garnish and Finish

If you love a touch of decadence, sprinkle shaved Parmesan cheese over the top before serving. This step is completely optional, but it adds a subtle richness that pairs beautifully with the herbal notes in your Tarragon Asparagus Salad. Serve chilled or at room temperature and watch it disappear.

How to Serve Tarragon Asparagus Salad

Garnishes

Enhance your Tarragon Asparagus Salad with a few well-chosen garnishes. Shaved Parmesan adds a luxurious touch, but you can also toss in toasted almonds or a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra brightness. A few delicate tarragon leaves scattered on top make the presentation pop.

Side Dishes

This salad fits into just about any meal. Pair it alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or pork for a balanced meal, or let it be the star of a vegetarian spread. A loaf of crusty bread or fluffy quinoa makes it a satisfying lunch all on its own.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern twist, try serving your Tarragon Asparagus Salad on a big platter, arranged with the asparagus spears all pointing in the same direction and the red onion scattered like confetti. Or pack it into mason jars for a picnic-friendly presentation. Mini cups make it perfect for cocktail parties and springtime buffets.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Tarragon Asparagus Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the salad even more delicious by day two, though the asparagus will soften a bit over time.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for Tarragon Asparagus Salad, since asparagus can lose its wonderful crisp texture and the fresh tarragon will turn limp and pale when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. In fact, a gentle toss before serving is all you need to revive any leftovers. If you do prefer it a bit warmer, a very short spin in the microwave (just a few seconds) will do, but be careful not to overdo it, or the asparagus may become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?

Fresh tarragon delivers a much brighter and more delicate flavor, but if dried is all you have, go ahead—just use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated, and sprinkle it into the vinaigrette to let it rehydrate a bit.

Can I make Tarragon Asparagus Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all the salad components and vinaigrette a day in advance. Combine just before serving for the best texture, or toss earlier if you don’t mind softer asparagus and more mingled flavors.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, Tarragon Asparagus Salad holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it a stellar side for packed lunches or quick weeknight meals. Just keep the dressing separate and add before serving if you want to preserve maximum crunch.

How can I add protein to make it a main dish?

Try tossing in grilled chicken, flaked salmon, or even a handful of cooked white beans or chickpeas. These additions turn Tarragon Asparagus Salad into a satisfying entrée without overpowering its bright flavors.

What if I don’t have white wine vinegar?

No worries! You can substitute with champagne vinegar, rice vinegar, or even a splash of fresh lemon juice. Each option keeps the dressing tangy and lively, perfect for highlighting the asparagus and tarragon.

Final Thoughts

Tarragon Asparagus Salad is the kind of dish you’ll want to share at every gathering and savor as a simple weeknight treat. It’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Give it a try—I have a feeling it’ll become one of your favorites, too!

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