Description
These Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears combine the natural sweetness of ripe pears with the bold flavor of blue cheese, complemented by crunchy nuts, fragrant thyme, and a drizzle of honey. Baked to tender perfection, this sophisticated appetizer or light dessert offers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, perfect for entertaining or a special meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pears
- 2 ripe but firm pears
Filling
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Toppings & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by either lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Pears: Cut each pear in half lengthwise, then carefully remove the core and seeds with a spoon or melon baller to create a hollow center in each half.
- Brush Pears with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the cut side of each pear half with olive oil to enhance roasting and prevent drying out. Place the pears cut-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- Make Filling: In a small bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese, chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), and fresh thyme leaves, mixing gently to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Stuff Pears: Spoon the blue cheese mixture into the hollowed-out centers of each pear half, ensuring they are evenly filled.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pears are just tender and the cheese has softened but not fully melted, maintaining some texture.
- Add Final Touches: Remove the pears from the oven and immediately drizzle each with honey to add sweetness and depth, then sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the top to enhance the flavor contrast.
- Serve: These stuffed pears can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for various dining occasions.
Notes
- For added flavor, toast the walnuts or pecans lightly before mixing them with the blue cheese to bring out their nuttiness.
- If you prefer a less pungent cheese, substitute the blue cheese with goat cheese or ricotta for a milder taste.
- Serve these stuffed pears alongside arugula or mixed greens to create a well-rounded salad course.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with sparkling wines or dessert wines, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 stuffed pear
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
