Easy Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delightful combination of sweet and savory, these roasted pears topped with blue cheese, walnuts, and honey are a perfect appetizer or dessert.
These easy roasted pears are a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of fruit paired with the rich flavor of blue cheese. The addition of walnuts adds a satisfying crunch, while a drizzle of honey brings everything together with a touch of sweetness.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors
- Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
- Impressive presentation for guests
The Perfect Pairing of Flavors
Roasted pears offer a unique combination of natural sweetness and savory depth, making them a versatile ingredient in both appetizers and desserts. The juicy texture of the pears contrasts beautifully with the creamy blue cheese, providing a delightful mouthfeel that will impress your guests. Adding walnuts introduces a satisfying crunch, while the honey drizzle enhances the overall flavor profile, creating a dish that is simply irresistible.
This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a gourmet experience. By roasting the pears, their sweetness intensifies, which pairs wonderfully with the bold, tangy flavor of blue cheese. The nuts add a nutty richness, and the honey brings a touch of warmth, making this dish a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
A Quick and Elegant Dish
One of the best aspects of this roasted pear recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up an elegant dish that looks like it took hours to prepare. This makes it an ideal option for last-minute entertaining or a cozy weeknight treat. With just a few steps, you’ll have a stunning dish ready to impress your family and friends.
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, these roasted pears serve as a delightful highlight. Their impressive presentation, with vibrant colors and textures, makes them a standout choice for any occasion. Plus, they can be served warm or at room temperature, adding to their versatility.
Tips for Success
When selecting pears for roasting, look for ripe yet firm varieties such as Bartlett or Anjou. These types caramelize beautifully in the oven while maintaining their shape. If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can opt for a milder cheese like goat cheese, which offers a creamy texture without overpowering the dish's natural sweetness.
Don't hesitate to experiment with toppings! While blue cheese and walnuts are a classic combination, feel free to incorporate other ingredients like dried cranberries or fresh herbs to personalize your dish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a unique twist on this recipe that suits your taste preferences.
Ingredients
For Roasting
- 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a deliciously sophisticated dish.
Instructions
Prepare the Pears
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, arrange the pear halves cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Add Cheese and Walnuts
Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts evenly over the pears.
Roast the Pears
Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
Drizzle with Honey
Remove from the oven and drizzle with honey before serving warm.
Serve these roasted pears as an elegant appetizer or a unique dessert.
Serving Suggestions
These roasted pears make an excellent starter or can be served as a light dessert. Pair them with a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling cider to enhance the flavors. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside a mixed greens salad or as a side dish with grilled meats.
For a brunch option, slice the roasted pears and serve them over pancakes or waffles, topped with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess. This dish brings a touch of sophistication to any brunch table, making it a memorable experience for your guests.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the roasted pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but reheating will help retain the flavors and textures.
For optimal flavor, avoid freezing roasted pears, as the texture may become mushy upon thawing. Instead, consider making smaller batches if you're unsure about finishing them in one sitting. This way, you can savor the delightful taste of roasted pears whenever the craving strikes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or feta can also work well in this recipe.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the pears and toppings ahead of time, but it’s best to roast them just before serving.
→ What other nuts can I use?
Pecans or almonds would be great alternatives to walnuts.
Easy Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey
A delightful combination of sweet and savory, these roasted pears topped with blue cheese, walnuts, and honey are a perfect appetizer or dessert.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For Roasting
- 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, arrange the pear halves cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts evenly over the pears.
Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with honey before serving warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 4g