Pumpkin oil is commonly used in the part of Austria known as Styria. It has an intense nutty flavor and makes a great salad dressing, especially when combined with flavored high quality vinegar. Potatoes and onions are also delicious roasted with pumpkin oil. The main type of fat in pumpkin oil is polyunsaturated. Remember that oils go rancid or bad over time so it's smart to buy specialty oils in small quantities and replenish as needed.

One of the trendy specialty oils is avocado oil. Many chefs mix it together with olive oil so that the flavor doesn't overpower the recipe or food. Try avocado oil when you stir fry or as a dipping oil instead of olive oil or mixed together. Pressed from the pulp of the avocado, the oil is a terrific source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat and has a rich flavor like the avocado itself.

Check out online sites such as markys.com, earthy.com and gourmetfoodstore.com for a selection of oils. Be creative this holiday season and try one.