If you’re craving a dish that’s both elegant and bursting with fresh, savory flavor, the Crab and Tarragon Tart is your new go-to. This delightful tart combines the silky richness of fresh crab meat with the subtly sweet, licorice-like notes of tarragon, creating a sophisticated flavor pairing that feels indulgent yet approachable. With a buttery crust and a creamy, herb-infused filling, this recipe promises to impress at any dinner or special occasion, while delighting your palate with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elegant Flavors: The blend of crab and tarragon creates a unique and refined taste that stands out from typical seafood dishes.
Easy to Prepare: Despite its gourmet feel, this tart is surprisingly straightforward to make with simple ingredients.
Perfect for Entertaining: It’s a stunning centerpiece that’s sure to impress guests with its beautiful presentation and complex flavors.
Versatile Meal: Great as an appetizer, light lunch, or even a classy brunch option to enjoy any time.
Balanced Texture: The crisp tart crust perfectly offsets the creamy, tender filling for the ultimate bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crab and Tarragon Tart lies in its simplicity — each ingredient is carefully chosen to enhance flavor, texture, and appearance. From fresh seafood to fragrant herbs, these essentials work harmoniously to bring the recipe to life.

Fresh Crab Meat: The star ingredient providing delicate sweetness and a tender texture.
Fresh Tarragon: Adds a subtle anise-like aroma and brightness that lifts the entire dish.
Shortcrust Pastry: A buttery, flaky base that holds the filling while adding rich flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a smooth, luscious filling that binds all the flavors beautifully.
Eggs: They set the filling and add richness to the tart’s custard-like consistency.
Shallots: Infuse gentle sweetness and depth to the filling without overpowering the crab.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Brightens the dish with fresh acidity, balancing the richness.
Salt and Freshly Ground Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
Butter: Used for sautéing shallots and enriching the crust texture.

Variations for Crab and Tarragon Tart

This crab and tarragon tart is a flexible canvas that welcomes creative touches. Whether adjusting for diet, seasonality, or personal taste, you can easily tweak ingredients to make it your own.

Add Cheese: Incorporate mild cheeses like Gruyère or cream cheese for extra creaminess and depth.
Herb Swap: Replace or mix tarragon with fresh dill or chives for different herbal profiles.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the crab with artichokes or roasted mushrooms for an equally luxurious filling.
Use Pre-Made Pastry: Opt for ready-made shortcrust pastry to save time without sacrificing taste.
Add a Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a subtle heat contrast.

Crab and Tarragon Tart A Sophisticated Flavor Pairing

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Milk Frother

Buy Now →

Meat Thermometer

Buy Now →

Olive Oil Sprayer

Buy Now →

How to Make Crab and Tarragon Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

Start by rolling out your shortcrust pastry and carefully lining a tart pan. Chill it briefly to prevent shrinking during baking.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Crust

Line the pastry with parchment paper, fill with pie weights, and bake until the edges are golden and set. This keeps the crust crisp once filled.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots

Finely chop the shallots and sauté them gently in butter until translucent and fragrant, bringing out their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed shallots, fresh tarragon, and delicate crab meat.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the filling into the blind-baked crust and bake until the filling is just set with a slight golden hue, typically around 25-30 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the tart to cool slightly for easier slicing and better flavor development, then serve warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips for Making Crab and Tarragon Tart

Use Fresh Crab: Fresh lump crab meat delivers the best texture and sweetest flavor compared to canned.
Don’t Overmix Filling: Gently fold ingredients to preserve crab’s delicate texture and prevent it from becoming too dense.
Blind Baking Is Key: Ensures a crisp, non-soggy crust that holds up to the creamy filling.
Chill the Tart: Letting the tart cool before slicing helps maintain its shape and enhances flavor melding.
Adjust Herb Quantity: Tarragon can be strong, so start with less and add more to suit your taste.

How to Serve Crab and Tarragon Tart

Garnishes

Top your tart with fresh tarragon sprigs and a light drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil to elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp green salad, lightly dressed with vinaigrette, or steamed asparagus for a fresh and balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices on stylish plates with microgreens or edible flowers for a refined touch that’s perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 2 days while preserving freshness.

Freezing

Freeze the tart before baking by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to cook through.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a low-temperature oven or toaster oven to avoid drying out the filling and to maintain the crisp crust.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat for this tart?

While fresh crab is ideal for flavor and texture, high-quality canned crab meat can work in a pinch though it may be less delicate.

Is the tart suitable for freezing after baking?

Freezing after baking is possible but may compromise crust texture; freezing before baking is recommended for best results.

Can I substitute tarragon with other herbs?

Yes, fresh dill or chives make excellent substitutes that complement crab and maintain a fresh herbal note.

What kind of tart pan should I use?

A removable-bottom tart pan makes it easier to release the tart and preserve its shape when serving.

How long can I prepare the tart in advance?

You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake when ready.

Final Thoughts

This Crab and Tarragon Tart is a sublime dish that brings together the best of sea flavors and fresh herbs in a way that feels both luxurious and welcoming. Whether you’re treating yourself or entertaining friends, this recipe’s bright, creamy filling and flaky crust never fail to impress. Give it a try and discover how easy it is to create a truly sophisticated seafood tart right at home!