This Spiced Pumpkin vinaigrette is super quick and simple to make and will positively transform a bed of greens or a piece of grilled squash into something truly irresistible!
The robust flavors of pumpkin, garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves are combined with tangy cider vinegar and punctuated with tarragon. Though it tends to be under-utilized here in the U.S., tarragon is one of the four fines herbes of French cooking. There are at least a couple of species of tarragon but the most prized for culinary use is French tarragon. Its aroma and flavor is reminiscent anise and just a touch of it goes a long way.
This vinaigrette pairs beautifully with a variety of salads, vegetables, squash and even adds a nice touch to grilled chicken.
And using just 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree, it’s the perfect way to use up leftover pumpkin!
Simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl or glass jar and whisk or shake until emulsified. If the vinaigrette is too thick, add a little water and whisk/shake again.
Enjoy!
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1½ teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Tiny pinch of ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Combine all the ingredients in a bowl or jar and whisk or shake until emulsified. If the vinaigrette is too thick, add a little more water and whisk/shake again.
- Will keep up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Anonymous says
Came out amazing. Thank you
Jen Medved says
A friend brought this vinaigrette over last night for a salad she brought – it was phenomenal!!
Kimberly @ The Daring Gourmet says
Fantastic, Jen, I’m so glad to hear that, thank you!
Cecilia Palmer says
Love it!
But,add pumpkin seeds,raisins,and Pecan Pralines…Heaven Baby!!
Kimberly @ The Daring Gourmet says
Heaven indeed, Cecilia, thanks for the tip!
Sabrina @ Dinner, then Dessert says
I’ve never had pumpkin on a salad before! But now I’m intrigued to try it!
Kristen says
I am so intrigued with this vinaigrette. It sounds delicious and like a great way to celebrate Autumn!
Lauren @ Wicked Spatula says
Holy cow! This dressing sounds SO delicious!! I can’t wait to try it!
Sara says
This sounds so great, I love the idea of a pumpkin salad dressing. It’s perfect for the holidays!
Manila Spoon says
I have never tried a pumpkin flavored vinaigrette and I am so intrigued with the flavors here! It sure sounds delicious!