Thyme Orange & Cinnamon Pear Balsamic Vinaigrette

November 2, 2024

Thyme Orange & Cinnamon Pear Vinaigrette at The Little Shop of Olive Oils

Some dressings feel seasonal.

This one feels like crisp air, orchard visits, and that first sweater of the season.

Our Cinnamon Pear Balsamic already has that soft warmth built in — gently sweet with just a hint of spice. When you pair it with Valencia Orange Olive Oil, something beautiful happens. The orange brightens the pear and keeps the dressing feeling light instead of heavy.

A touch of thyme adds an herbal note that makes this vinaigrette feel thoughtful and balanced. And if you whisk in a little Dijon? It becomes creamy without any cream at all.

I love this over mixed greens with sliced pears, toasted walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese. It’s also lovely drizzled over roasted butternut squash or brushed onto grilled chicken.

Sweet. Savory. Warm with a little brightness.

The kind of dressing that makes a simple salad feel special.

Thyme Orange & Cinnamon Pear Vinaigrette

A warm and balanced vinaigrette made with Cinnamon Pear Balsamic, Valencia Orange Olive Oil, and fresh thyme for a bright yet cozy dressing perfect for fall salads and roasted vegetables.

Author: The Little Shop of Olive Oils
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: Makes approximately ½ cup (serves 4–6 salads)
Category: Dressings & Sauces

Ingredients

¼ cup Cinnamon Pear Balsamic Vinegar
¼ cup Valencia Orange Olive Oil
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
1 tsp Franklin Raw Honey or maple syrup
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

In a small bowl, whisk together Cinnamon Pear Balsamic Vinegar, Dijon mustard (if using), and honey or maple syrup until smooth.
Slowly drizzle in Valencia Orange Olive Oil while whisking continuously until fully emulsified.
Stir in fresh thyme leaves, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.