Fresh Tarragon — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Fresh tarragon should boast bright green leaves with no signs of wilting. Its flavor is slightly anise-like, with a sweet, subtle undertone. Feel the stems; they should be pliable but snappy when bent.

Do not buy tarragon if it appears limp or has a faded color. High-quality tarragon should be aromatic and enhance dishes with its unique flavor.

Fresh tarragon should be refrigerated to retain its delicate flavor. Store it in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag. Properly stored, fresh tarragon can last up to a week.

Placing tarragon near strong odors can result in flavor absorption. It is advisable to wash tarragon only before use. Keeping the bag slightly open allows for optimal freshness.

Fresh tarragon can last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in a plastic bag with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. For longer storage, tarragon can be dried and kept for up to 6 months in an airtight container.

Leftover fresh tarragon can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, tarragon adds a distinctive, slightly sweet and anise-like flavor to dishes like chicken, fish, salads, and sauces. It’s a key ingredient in classic French dishes like béarnaise sauce and can be used to infuse vinegars or oils for salad dressings.

Beyond cooking, fresh tarragon has some interesting uses. It can be brewed into a tea, traditionally used to help aid digestion and promote sleep. Tarragon’s essential oils can be extracted and used in aromatherapy for their calming effects. Fresh tarragon can also be used in homemade herbal baths or added to potpourri for a pleasant aroma. Additionally, tarragon has mild antiseptic properties and can be applied to insect bites or minor cuts to help soothe the skin, though this is more of a traditional remedy.