Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

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by Alexia

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Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

Welcome to a delightful culinary experience where elegance meets simplicity! Today, we’re introducing you to our Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe—a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy in one dish. Whether you’re a fan of blue cheese or simply love fruity, gourmet flavors, these roasted pears are a must-try! Enjoy as an appetizer or an indulgent dessert that captures the best of seasonal flavors.

Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
  • Versatile Dish: Serve it as a starter at dinner parties or as a sweet finish to your meal.
  • Gourmet Flavor: The combination of roasted pears, blue cheese, and honey creates a sophisticated flavor profile that impresses every time.
  • Seasonal Ingredients: Use fresh pears to celebrate the flavors of the season while keeping your dish vibrant and delicious.
  • Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or cheeses based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delectable recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for roasting the pears evenly without them falling over.
  • Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after enjoying your delicious dish.
Roasted

Ingredients

For the Roasted Pears

  • 4 ripe but firm pears (Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc work well)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Topping

  • ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (for a milder flavor, substitute with Gorgonzola)
  • ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons honey (plus more for drizzling)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pears roast evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pears

  • Wash the pears thoroughly.
  • Cut each pear in half lengthwise and remove the core using a spoon or melon baller.
  • Place the halved pears cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Add Flavorings

  • Drizzle melted butter over each pear half.
  • Sprinkle fresh lemon juice on top to enhance flavor and prevent browning.

Step 4: Roast the Pears

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for about 25 minutes, or until the pears are tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Once roasted:
* Remove from oven and sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over each pear half.
* Top with chopped walnuts.

Step 6: Final Touches

Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow cheese to melt slightly.

Step 7: Serve

Drizzle with honey before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy your elegant dish warm!

How to Serve Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

Roasted pears with blue cheese, walnuts, and honey make a stunning dish that’s perfect for sharing. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As an Elegant Appetizer

  • Serve the roasted pears warm on individual plates as a starter for dinner parties. The savory blue cheese contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the pears.

Over a Bed of Greens

  • Place sliced roasted pears on a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with additional honey and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad that complements the rich flavors.

Paired with Grilled Meats

  • These pears make an excellent side dish alongside grilled chicken or beef. Their sweet and savory notes balance out the smoky flavors of grilled meats.

With Toasted Bread

  • Serve roasted pears on slices of toasted baguette or crostini. Top with extra blue cheese for an easy yet sophisticated appetizer that’s sure to impress.

As a Decadent Dessert

  • For dessert, serve warm roasted pears topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The contrast in temperatures adds an exciting element to this sweet treat.

How to Perfect Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

Perfecting your roasted pears is simple with these helpful tips:

  • Choose ripe but firm pears: Select pears that are just ripe to ensure they hold their shape during roasting while still providing sweetness.

  • Melt butter thoroughly: Make sure the butter is completely melted before brushing it onto the pears for even coating and flavor.

  • Toast walnuts ahead of time: Toasting enhances the flavor and crunchiness of walnuts. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet can make a big difference.

  • Adjust honey sweetness: Feel free to add more or less honey based on your taste preference. This flexibility allows you to balance sweetness and savoriness perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

Roasted pears pair well with various side dishes that complement their unique flavors. Here are some great options:

  1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs adds a nutritious touch that balances the richness of the pears.

  2. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with lemon zest and fresh herbs creates a refreshing side that works beautifully alongside roasted pears.

  3. Grilled Asparagus: The slight bitterness of grilled asparagus contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors in this dish, providing depth to your meal.

  4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a hearty option that aligns well with the flavors of blue cheese and honey in the roasted pears.

  5. Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf adds texture and earthiness that complements the sweetness of roasted fruit perfectly.

  6. Spinach Sauté: Lightly sautéed spinach dressed in olive oil brings freshness to your plate while balancing out richer elements like blue cheese.

  7. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness from caramelized Brussels sprouts pairs wonderfully, adding complexity to your meal’s flavor profile.

  8. Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta topped with fresh herbs provides an additional creamy element, enhancing both texture and taste when served alongside roasted pears.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey dish from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Using overripe pears: Overripe pears can become mushy when roasted. Choose ripe but firm pears for the best texture.
  • Skipping the toasting of walnuts: Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor. Always toast them for a richer taste.
  • Not balancing flavors: Ensure you balance the sweetness of honey and pears with the saltiness of blue cheese. Adjust quantities to your preference.
  • Ignoring the importance of even slicing: Unevenly sliced pears can roast unevenly. Cut them into consistent sizes for uniform cooking.
  • Neglecting garnishes: Fresh thyme or an extra drizzle of honey adds visual appeal and flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!
Roasted

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

  • Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
  • Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat in short intervals (15-30 seconds) until just warm; avoid overheating.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe:

Can I use different types of cheese in this roasted pears recipe?

Absolutely! While blue cheese is traditional, you can experiment with goat cheese or feta for different flavor profiles.

How do I make my roasted pears more flavorful?

Consider adding spices like nutmeg or ginger, or incorporating citrus zest along with the honey and lemon juice.

What are some good substitutes for walnuts?

Pecans or hazelnuts work wonderfully as alternatives. You can also omit nuts if preferred.

Can I serve roasted pears as a main dish?

Yes! Pair them with a salad or grains for a light meal that features these delicious roasted pears as a main component.

Final Thoughts

Our Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether served as an appetizer or dessert, it’s sure to impress your guests. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or cheeses!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey


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  • Author: Alexia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of our Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Recipe. This elegant dish combines the sweetness of perfectly roasted pears with the savory richness of blue cheese and the crunch of walnuts, all drizzled with honey for a touch of decadence. It’s ideal for impressing guests at dinner parties or enjoying as a simple yet sophisticated dessert. Simple to prepare, this recipe celebrates seasonal ingredients while allowing room for customization to suit your taste. Whether served warm on their own or over a bed of greens, these roasted pears promise to elevate any dining experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ripe but firm pears (Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese
  • ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons honey (plus more for drizzling)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Wash and halve the pears lengthwise, removing the cores.
  3. Arrange pear halves cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Drizzle melted butter over each pear half and sprinkle with lemon juice.
  5. Roast in the oven for about 25 minutes until tender but not mushy.
  6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with blue cheese and chopped walnuts.
  7. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt cheese slightly.
  8. Drizzle with honey before serving warm.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 pear half (approximately 100g)
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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