If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, look no further than elegant blue cheese stuffed pears. This delicious appetizer combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a hit with family and friends. Their beautiful presentation will have everyone talking, while their delightful taste will keep them coming back for more.
Why make this recipe
This recipe is perfect for many occasions, from holiday parties to casual dinners. The combination of ripe pears and creamy blue cheese creates a unique flavor balance. Plus, they are quick to prepare and require only a few ingredients. Blue cheese stuffed pears are not only tasty; they also look stunning on any table setting.
How to prepare Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe but firm pears
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment or lightly grease it.
- Cut the pears in half lengthwise and use a spoon or melon baller to remove the core and seeds, creating a small hollow in the center of each half.
- Lightly brush the cut side of each pear with olive oil and place them cut-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the crumbled blue cheese with chopped nuts and thyme. Spoon the mixture into the hollowed-out centers of each pear half.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pears are just tender and the cheese is softened but not melted completely.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle each stuffed pear with a little honey. Add a touch of freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor contrast.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
How to serve Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears
These stuffed pears are best served warm or at room temperature. They can be arranged on a nice platter for a beautiful presentation. You can add a few fresh thyme sprigs or extra nuts as garnish for an elegant touch. Pair them with a glass of wine for an elevated experience.
How to store Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, until warmed through.
Tips to make Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears perfectly
- Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of blue cheese based on your taste preference.
- Experiment with different nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, for a unique twist.
Variations
- Swap out blue cheese for goat cheese for a milder flavor.
- Add dried cranberries or figs to the cheese mixture for a hint of sweetness.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of honey for a different flavor profile.
FAQ
Q: Can I prepare these pears ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed pears a few hours in advance. Just bake them right before serving for the best texture.
Q: What kind of pears are best for this recipe?
A: Firm varieties like Bosc or Anjou pears work best because they hold their shape well when baked.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian, as it contains no meat or seafood. Just ensure all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful dish! Elegant blue cheese stuffed pears are sure to impress on any occasion.
Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears
A simple yet impressive appetizer combining sweet ripe pears and savory blue cheese, perfect for gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 ripe but firm pears
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment or lightly grease it.
- Cut the pears in half lengthwise and use a spoon or melon baller to remove the core and seeds, creating a small hollow in the center of each half.
- Lightly brush the cut side of each pear with olive oil and place them cut-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the crumbled blue cheese with chopped nuts and thyme. Spoon the mixture into the hollowed-out centers of each pear half.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pears are just tender and the cheese is softened but not melted completely.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle each stuffed pear with a little honey. Add a touch of freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor contrast.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Best served warm or at room temperature. Can be garnished with fresh thyme sprigs or extra nuts for an elegant touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: blue cheese, pears, appetizers, party food, elegant