This elegant dish beautifully combines sweet and savory flavors, making it an excellent choice for an appetizer or light dessert. The tender, baked pears paired with tangy blue cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a drizzle of honey create a delightful balance that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
4 ripe pears, halved and cored
1 tablespoon butter, melted
½ cup mixed fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
¼ cup crumbled blue cheese
2 tablespoons honey
Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Pears:
Place the halved and cored pears, cut-side up, on the baking sheet. Brush each pear with melted butter to help them bake to a golden finish.
Bake the Pears:
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are tender but still hold their shape. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Add the Toppings:
Top with Berries & Blue Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the mixed berries over the pears, then add crumbled blue cheese on top to slightly melt from the pear’s warmth.
Add Walnuts & Honey: Sprinkle walnuts and drizzle honey over each pear for added sweetness.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an earthy touch if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Details:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Tips: For extra flavor, toast the walnuts before adding them. You can substitute blue cheese with goat cheese for a milder taste.