An Elegant Sweet-Savory Appetizer with Toasted Walnuts
Ripe pears transform into edible vessels for a luxurious filling of tangy blue cheese, crunchy walnuts, and golden honey – baked until warm and caramelized for a stunning starter or dessert.
Why This Dish Shines
✨ Perfect balance – Sweet pears contrast salty blue cheese
🔥 Warm & comforting – Melty cheese with caramelized edges
🌰 Textural harmony – Creamy filling meets crunchy walnuts
🎉 Effortless elegance – Impressive presentation with simple prep
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | Ripe pears | Bosc or Anjou recommended |
| 120g | Blue cheese | Crumbled (Roquefort or Gorgonzola) |
| 30g | Walnuts | Toasted & chopped |
| 15ml | Honey | Plus extra for drizzling |
| 15ml | Balsamic vinegar | Aged preferred |
| ¼ tsp | Black pepper | Freshly ground |
| – | Thyme sprigs | For garnish |
Optional Enhancements:
- 30g goat cheese blended into filling
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- Walnut oil drizzle before serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pears
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F)
- Halve pears lengthwise and scoop out cores (melon baller works perfectly)
- Arrange cut-side up on parchment-lined baking sheet
2. Make the Filling
- In a bowl, combine:
- Crumbled blue cheese
- Toasted walnuts
- Honey
- Mix gently until just incorporated
3. Assemble & Bake
- Spoon filling into pear cavities, pressing lightly
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar
- Sprinkle with black pepper
- Bake 20-25 minutes until:
- Pears are knife-tender
- Cheese is bubbling
4. Finishing Touches
- Drizzle with extra honey
- Garnish with fresh thyme
- Serve immediately
Expert Techniques
Pear Selection Guide
✔ Bosc: Holds shape best when baked
✔ Anjou: Sweeter, softer texture
✖ Avoid overripe pears (will turn mushy)
Toasting Walnuts Perfectly
- Dry toast in skillet over medium heat
- Stir frequently until fragrant (~5 minutes)
- Cool before chopping
Serving Suggestions
As an Appetizer:
- Pair with sparkling wine or crisp white
- Serve on a cheese board with crackers
As a Dessert:
- Top with vanilla ice cream
- Accompany with dessert wine
Savory Variation:
- Add crispy pancetta crumbles
- Substitute rosemary for thyme
Make-Ahead & Storage
Prep in Advance:
- Stuff pears up to 4 hours before baking
- Keep refrigerated until ready to cook
Leftovers:
- Store covered in fridge up to 2 days
- Reheat gently in oven
Troubleshooting
Issue | Solution
Pears too soft | Reduce bake time by 5 minutes
Filling too salty | Use milder blue cheese or blend with ricotta
Not sweet enough | Increase honey to 20ml
Chef’s Secret: For dramatic presentation, fan pear slices around the stuffed halves and drizzle with reduced balsamic glaze.
This sophisticated yet simple dish delivers complex flavors with minimal effort – the perfect starter to impress guests or elevate your weeknight entertaining.
Have you tried this recipe? Tag your creations #StuffedPearElegance!
