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Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts & Honey

Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts & Honey

This simple yet elegant dish perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The caramelized pears, creamy blue cheese, crunchy walnuts, and drizzle of honey make it an impressive appetizer or dessert.


Ingredients

  • 4 ripe but firm pears (Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc work well)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons honey (plus more for drizzling)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Pears

  • Slice each pear in half lengthwise.
  • Scoop out the core using a spoon or melon baller, creating a small cavity for the filling.
  • Brush the pear halves with melted butter and sprinkle lightly with cinnamon if desired.

3. Roast the Pears

  • Arrange the pears, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the pears are tender and golden around the edges.

4. Add the Toppings

  • Remove the pears from the oven.
  • Fill each cavity with crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts.
  • Drizzle with honey and a squeeze of lemon juice.

5. Return to the Oven

  • Place the pears back in the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, just until the blue cheese begins to soften and melt slightly.

6. Serve

  • Transfer the pears to serving plates.
  • Drizzle with more honey and garnish with fresh thyme, if desired.
  • Serve warm as a sophisticated appetizer or a sweet and savory dessert.
See also  Pear, Pecan, and Brie Phyllo Cups with Rosemary Honey – Easy Appetizer

Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Tips for Success

  1. Cheese Substitutions: Use gorgonzola or goat cheese for a milder flavor.
  2. Nut Options: Substitute toasted pecans or almonds if you prefer.
  3. Extra Elegance: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for richness.
  4. Pear Ripeness: Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to hold their shape during roasting.

This recipe is a versatile addition to any meal, offering an upscale yet approachable option that’s sure to impress. Perfect for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or treating yourself!