Description
Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears combine ripe, tender pears with the rich tang of blue cheese and the crunch of walnuts or pecans, accented by fresh thyme and a drizzle of honey. This sophisticated appetizer is baked to perfection, offering a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, perfect for entertaining or a stylish snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Pears
- 2 ripe but firm pears
Stuffing
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Pears: Cut the pears in half lengthwise. Using a spoon or melon baller, carefully remove the core and seeds from each half to create a hollow center for the stuffing.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the cut side of each pear half with olive oil to help with roasting and to add a subtle richness.
- Mix Stuffing: In a small bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese, chopped walnuts or pecans, and fresh thyme leaves. Stir gently to mix all flavors evenly.
- Fill Pears: Spoon the blue cheese mixture into the hollowed centers of each pear half, distributing it evenly.
- Bake: Place the stuffed pears cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the pears are tender but still hold their shape and the cheese is softened but not fully melted.
- Finish & Serve: Remove the pears from the oven, drizzle each with honey, and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm or at room temperature for a beautiful appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to hold their shape during baking.
- Roasting time can vary slightly depending on pear size and oven; watch for tenderness without over-softening.
- For a nut-free option, omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Blue cheese can be substituted with gorgonzola or Roquefort for different flavor profiles.
- Serving at room temperature allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to eat as finger food at parties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Keywords: blue cheese stuffed pears, baked stuffed pears, elegant appetizers, pear recipes, savory pear dish
