Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels fancy but is easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, then you’ve come to the right place! Our Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy that will wow your taste buds. This recipe is not only a hit during family gatherings but also makes for a stunning appetizer or dessert that highlights the beauty of seasonal fruits. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare that you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!

I love this recipe because it brings together unique flavors in an elegant way. The juicy pears pair perfectly with creamy blue cheese and crunchy walnuts, drizzled with a touch of honey for sweetness. It’s one of those dishes that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly gourmet.
• Family-friendly: Even those who are hesitant about blue cheese will find this dish irresistible.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it warm as an appetizer or chilled as a dessert—either way, it’s delicious!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep everything in advance and simply roast when you’re ready.
• Seasonal delight: It highlights fresh pears at their best, making it perfect for fall gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our roasted pears! These are easy to find and will come together beautifully in this recipe.

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Try different cheeses: Swap the blue cheese for goat cheese or feta if you want something milder.
• Add dried fruits: Toss in some dried cranberries or figs for added sweetness and texture.
• Change the nuts: Pecans or almonds can replace walnuts for a different crunch.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon for an aromatic twist.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your pears roast evenly and caramelize beautifully. A hot oven will bring out the natural sugars in the fruit!

Step 2: Prepare the Pears

While the oven heats up, wash and slice your pears in half lengthwise. Remove the core using a melon baller or spoon. This helps them cook through while allowing space for our delicious fillings.

Step 3: Assemble the Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon if you’re using it. Brush this mixture over each pear half. Not only does this add flavor, but it also helps keep the pears moist as they roast.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Nuts

Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over each pear half followed by chopped walnuts. The combination of these toppings adds richness and crunch that perfectly complements the sweet pears.

Step 5: Roast the Pears

Place your prepared pears cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until they are tender and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them; you want them soft yet still holding their shape!

Step 6: Drizzle with Honey & Garnish

Once done roasting, remove them from the oven and drizzle with additional honey if desired. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm or let cool slightly before enjoying this fantastic dish!

These roasted pears are sure to impress anyone at your table! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

Creating the perfect roasted pears is all about balance and technique. Here are some tips to enhance your culinary adventure!

• Choose the right pears: Opt for ripe but firm varieties like Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc. They hold their shape well during roasting and provide a delightful sweetness.

• Melted butter matters: Brushing the pears with melted butter not only adds richness but also helps achieve that gorgeous caramelization. This step enhances flavor and texture.

• Toast the walnuts: Toasting your walnuts before adding them to the dish brings out their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet will do wonders!

• Experiment with honey: For an interesting twist, try using flavored honey, such as lavender or orange blossom, to infuse additional layers of flavor into your roasted pears.

• Don’t skip the lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the sweetness of the pears and honey. It’s an essential ingredient that enhances overall flavor.

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

Presentation is key when serving these elegant roasted pears. Whether it’s for a dinner party or a cozy family meal, there are plenty of ways to make this dish shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme: A sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves not only looks beautiful but adds an aromatic touch that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped fresh parsley: A handful of chopped parsley provides a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both visual appeal and taste.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of the roasted pears.
• Quinoa pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with sautéed vegetables offers a nutritious side that balances the sweet and savory elements of your dish.
• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts adds color and texture while complementing the flavors of your main dish.
• Crusty bread: Serve alongside slices of warm crusty bread—perfect for soaking up any leftover honey drizzles!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests! Enjoy this deliciously unique combination of flavors in every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts & Honey recipe is fantastic for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a gourmet treat any time! Preparing this dish in advance can save you time during busy weekdays or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pears to cool completely before storing.
• Place the roasted pears in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, keep the blue cheese, walnuts, and honey separate until serving.

Freezing

• Roasted pears can be frozen, but their texture may change once thawed.
• Freeze the cooled pears on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Use within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pears on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Drizzle with additional honey before serving for extra sweetness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions regarding our delicious recipe!

Can I use different types of cheese in the Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a milder flavor, substitute blue cheese with Gorgonzola or even goat cheese. Each will add a unique taste that complements the pears beautifully.

How do I make the Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe vegan?

To make this dish vegan-friendly, swap out the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cheese option. Maple syrup can also replace honey for sweetness!

What can I serve alongside Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey?

These roasted pears pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or can be served over creamy polenta or quinoa for a complete meal. They also make an elegant addition to any cheese board!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts & Honey! This dish is not only simple but brings together an irresistible combination of flavors that impresses every time. Enjoy making this delightful recipe—it’s perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own. Happy cooking!