Pumpkin Seed Salad Dressing or Dip: Salsa de Pepitas
This versatile recipe may be used as a salad dressing or as a dip for crudités or chips. If using as a dip, eliminate the mayonnaise and water. The dressing is approximately as thick as a blue cheese dressing and works best on crisp varieties of lettuce such as iceberg and romaine.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas) without shells
- 2 medium poblano chiles, roasted, seeded and peeled
- 1 large clove garlic, peeled
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ cup neutral vegetable oil (such as safflower or canola)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco or farmer cheese
- ½ cup cilantro leaves (no stems)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼- ½ cup water
Preparation:
Toast the pumpkin seeds on a dry griddle or comal until they "pop", being careful not to scorch them. Allow the seeds to cool completely.
Place the seeds in a blender or food processor with the chiles, garlic, salt, pepper, oil, vinegar, cheese and cilantro. Puree to a smooth consistency. At this point, the mixture may be used as a dip.
In a large non-reactive bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the water. Add the blended mixture and combine thoroughly. The dressing should be refrigerated, covered, for 2 hours to thicken. Any unused dressing or dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Makes enough dressing for 2 quarts of washed and torn lettuce leaves, 8 salad servings.
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