Description
Delightful Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears combine the natural sweetness of ripe pears with the tangy creaminess of blue cheese, enhanced by crunchy walnuts and a drizzle of honey. Baked to perfection, this elegant appetizer or light dessert offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it ideal for entertaining or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits
- 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou recommended)
Filling
- 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Serving (Optional)
- Fresh arugula or mixed greens
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the pears evenly.
- Prepare Pears: Wash the pears thoroughly. Slice each pear in half lengthwise. Using a melon baller or small spoon, scoop out the core from each half to create a cavity for the filling.
- Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese, chopped walnuts, honey, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Stuff Pears: Carefully fill each pear half with the blue cheese mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling securely within the cavity.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the stuffed pears cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pears become tender and the cheese filling is slightly melted and warm.
- Cool: Remove the pears from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes to make handling easier and to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Serve the warm, stuffed pears on a bed of fresh arugula or mixed greens if desired for a fresh, peppery contrast to the sweet and tangy filling.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm pears to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
- If you prefer a milder cheese flavor, substitute blue cheese with a milder soft cheese like goat cheese.
- Walnuts can be toasted beforehand to enhance their flavor.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Adjust honey amount to taste based on desired sweetness.
