Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pear and Blue Cheese Toast is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the richness of blue cheese balancing the subtle sweetness of ripe pears. The toasted walnuts add a delightful crunch, while a drizzle of honey ties everything together with just the right amount of sweetness. Fresh arugula gives the toast a peppery bite, making it an elegant yet easy dish that’s perfect for a snack, appetizer, or light meal. It’s an ideal way to enjoy sophisticated flavors without much effort.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of rustic bread
• 1 pear, thinly sliced
• 2 oz blue cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup walnut pieces, toasted
• Fresh arugula

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

Directions

1. Toast the rustic bread slices to your desired level of crispiness.
2. While the bread is toasting, toast the walnut pieces in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
3. Once the bread is toasted, arrange the thin pear slices on top of each slice of bread.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese evenly over the pears.
5. Drizzle honey over the cheese and pears for a touch of sweetness.
6. Add the toasted walnut pieces on top, followed by a handful of fresh arugula for a peppery finish.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Preparation time: 5 minutes
• Cooking time: 5 minutes
• Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Try Different Cheese: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, substitute it with goat cheese, feta, or sharp cheddar.
• Sweeten It Up: If you want more sweetness, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top.
• Use Other Nuts: Swap the walnuts for toasted pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• This recipe is best served immediately to enjoy the contrast of textures between the crispy toast and fresh toppings.
• You can store any leftover walnuts in an airtight container for up to 1 week, but it’s not recommended to store the fully assembled toast as the bread will lose its crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Yes! You can use any bread you prefer, such as sourdough, baguette, or even gluten-free bread.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of blue cheese?

Yes, you can substitute blue cheese with goat cheese, gorgonzola, feta, or a sharp cheddar, depending on your taste.

3. Can I make this toast in advance?

While the components can be prepped ahead of time, it’s best to toast the bread and assemble the toast just before serving to keep it crisp.

4. How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based cheese alternatives and skip the honey, replacing it with maple syrup or agave.

5. How do I store leftover pear slices?

To store leftover pear slices, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can stay fresh for 1-2 days. You can also toss them in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.

6. What type of pear should I use for this toast?

A firm pear, like Bosc or Anjou, works best for this recipe as it will hold its shape when sliced. Avoid very ripe pears, as they may become mushy.

7. Can I skip the walnuts?

Yes, if you prefer a smoother texture or have a nut allergy, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

8. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free bread to make this recipe gluten-free.

9. How can I make this toast spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey for a bit of spice to contrast with the sweetness.

10. Can I prepare this ahead of time for a party?

You can prep the ingredients (toast the bread, slice the pears, and crumble the cheese) ahead of time. However, it’s best to assemble and serve the toast fresh for optimal taste and texture.

Conclusion

Pear and Blue Cheese Toast is a deliciously sophisticated dish that blends sweet and savory flavors in a way that feels both luxurious and comforting. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a light meal, or an appetizer for guests, this toast is sure to impress with its layers of creamy cheese, crunchy walnuts, and the natural sweetness of ripe pears. The perfect way to indulge in the flavors of autumn!

Print