Best Tarragon Mayonnaise Recipe

This Tarragon Mayonnaise recipe combines creamy mayonnaise with a flavorful white wine and fresh herb reduction, creating a smooth and elegant sauce with a subtle kick of heat. Featured on Licence to Grill and created by Rob Rainford, this easy homemade condiment is the perfect finishing touch for grilled seafood, especially cedar planked salmon, as well as barbecue favorites and summer entertaining dishes.

Simple yet sophisticated, this sauce transforms everyday mayonnaise into a restaurant-style accompaniment. Fresh tarragon adds a delicate anise-like flavor, while white wine brings brightness and depth. A touch of Tabasco sauce provides just enough spice to balance the richness of the creamy base.

The Inspiration

Classic French cuisine often uses fresh herbs, wine reductions, and creamy sauces to enhance the natural flavors of quality ingredients. Tarragon is especially known for its ability to pair beautifully with seafood, poultry, and egg-based sauces, making it a natural choice for a grilled salmon accompaniment.

For Licence to Grill, Rob Rainford highlights how a simple homemade sauce can elevate a barbecue meal. This Tarragon Mayonnaise recipe was designed to complement the show, adding a creamy, herbaceous contrast to the smoky cedar flavors of the grilled fish.

The combination of reduced white wine, fresh tarragon, and mayonnaise creates a balanced sauce that feels both elegant and approachable. Whether served at a backyard barbecue, outdoor dinner party, or casual weekend meal, this versatile condiment adds a fresh and flavorful finishing touch.

Ingredients

1 cup of white wine – (250ml)
3 sprigs fresh of tarragon
1 cup of mayonnaise – (250ml)
2 drops of Tabasco – or to taste

Method

In a sauce pan combine white wine and tarragon sprig, on medium heat reduce to ¼ cup.
Strain and chill.
Mix the chilled reduction with mayonnaise and add 2 splashes of Tabasco sauce.
Refrigerate until time to serve.

Serving Suggestions

This Tarragon Mayonnaise is the perfect companion for grilled seafood, especially cedar planked salmon, where its creamy texture and herbal flavor complement the smoky richness of the fish. Serve it alongside grilled shrimp, crab cakes, fish sandwiches, or roasted seafood platters for an elegant finishing sauce.

For barbecue gatherings, use this sauce as a dipping option for grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, chicken skewers, or sandwiches. It also works beautifully as a spread for burgers, wraps, and gourmet sandwiches, adding freshness and richness without overpowering the main ingredients.

When entertaining guests, serve the Tarragon Mayonnaise in a small bowl garnished with fresh tarragon leaves or a sprinkle of herbs. Its creamy texture and sophisticated flavor make it an easy way to elevate a simple grilled meal into a memorable dining experience.

This sauce can also be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient addition to summer gatherings, holiday meals, and outdoor celebrations.

Final Thoughts

This Tarragon Mayonnaise recipe proves that a simple homemade sauce can make a major impact on a meal. Rob Rainford’s creation for Licence to Grill combines classic culinary techniques with barbecue-friendly flavors, resulting in a creamy, flavorful condiment that enhances grilled dishes.

Find more recipes from License to Grill here!