Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, making it the ideal balance for a refined palate. The soft, juicy pears are transformed with the rich and sharp blue cheese filling, offering a perfect contrast to the slightly crunchy toasted walnuts. Drizzling the pears with honey and balsamic vinegar enhances the flavor profile with sweet and tangy notes, elevating the dish even further. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a special meal at home, this recipe is a true showstopper.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
• 120 grams blue cheese, crumbled
• 30 grams chopped walnuts, toasted
• 15 millilitres honey, plus extra for drizzling
• 15 millilitres balsamic vinegar
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Place the pear halves on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, cut-side up.
3. In a small bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese, toasted walnuts, and 15 millilitres of honey. Mix together until well combined.
4. Spoon the cheese mixture into the hollowed-out center of each pear half, pressing gently to secure the filling.
5. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the stuffed pears.
6. Roast the pears in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the cheese is slightly melted.
7. Remove from the oven, and season with freshly ground black pepper.
8. Drizzle the pears with extra honey, and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute cheese: If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, try a milder option like goat cheese or feta for a similar creamy texture with a different flavor profile.
• Add fruit: For extra flavor, add a few slices of apple to the pear halves before stuffing them.
• Nuts: You can swap the walnuts for pecans or almonds, depending on your preference.
• Vegan option: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and substitute the honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pears in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the texture may be slightly different.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can stuff the pears and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you’re reheating from the fridge.

What other nuts can I use in this recipe?

You can use any nut you prefer, such as pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Just be sure to toast them for added flavor.

Can I make this recipe without balsamic vinegar?

While balsamic vinegar adds a nice tangy sweetness to the dish, you can omit it or substitute it with another type of vinegar like red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

How do I choose the right pears for this recipe?

Look for ripe, firm pears like Bartlett or Bosc. They should yield slightly when pressed but not be overly soft, which helps them hold their shape during roasting.

Can I make this recipe without blue cheese?

Yes! If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese, brie, or feta for a milder flavor.

Can I serve these pears as a main course?

While they’re typically an appetizer or side dish, you could serve these stuffed pears as a light main course, especially if paired with a salad or protein like chicken .

Can I use canned pears for this recipe?

Fresh pears are best for this dish as they hold up well when roasted. Canned pears may be too soft and could break down during the cooking process.

Can I use honey substitutes?

Yes, if you’re avoiding honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using a plant-based cheese and swapping honey for maple syrup.

Can I add other spices to the filling?

Feel free to experiment! Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheese mixture would give the dish a warm, spiced flavor that pairs well with pears.

Conclusion

Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears are the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them a standout dish for any occasion. With their easy preparation and stunning presentation, these pears are sure to impress guests and elevate your meal. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course, this recipe offers a delicious and sophisticated way to enjoy the natural sweetness of pears.

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