🍂 Overview

These golden baked pears are drizzled with honey, topped with a rich, savory blue cheese crumble, and baked until perfectly tender. The combination of sweet pears and tangy blue cheese creates an elegant appetizer or side dish that’s sure to impress. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that brings the flavors of fall to your table.

🍐 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Baked Pears:

• 4 ripe Bosc pears (or any firm variety)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

• 2 tbsp honey (for drizzling)

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

For the Savory Blue Cheese Crumble:

• ⅓ cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)

• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts (or pecans)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• Pinch of salt

🍴 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice the pears in half lengthwise, and remove the core using a melon baller or a small spoon.

3. Arrange the pear halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

4. Drizzle the pear halves with olive oil or melted butter and brush to coat evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Blue Cheese Crumble

1. In a small bowl, combine blue cheese, panko breadcrumbs, chopped walnuts, parsley, olive oil, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.

2. The mixture should be slightly moist and crumbly. If it feels too dry, add a bit more olive oil.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Spoon the blue cheese crumble generously over each pear half, pressing gently so it sticks to the pear.

2. Drizzle a little honey over the top for added sweetness (optional but recommended).

Step 4: Bake the Pears

1. Place the pears in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the cheese crumble is golden and crispy.

2. Check the pears at the 15-minute mark and, if necessary, cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning the cheese crumble before the pears are fully cooked.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Once baked, remove the pears from the oven and sprinkle with fresh thyme (optional) for a burst of color and extra flavor.

2. Serve warm as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course.

🍂 Tips & Variations

• Nut-Free: Skip the walnuts and use extra breadcrumbs or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a crispy, cheesy topping.

• Add a Balsamic Glaze: After baking, drizzle some balsamic reduction over the pears for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.

• Serve with Arugula: A handful of fresh arugula adds a peppery bite that complements the sweet and savory flavors.

🌟 Why You'll Love It

• The combination of sweet pears and savory blue cheese makes this dish irresistible.

• Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday meals, or as a fancy appetizer.

• Simple ingredients and easy to make, yet looks incredibly elegant on the plate.

Enjoy these Golden Baked Pears with Savory Blue Cheese Crumble as a warm and sophisticated treat that will impress your guests or make a simple, satisfying side dish to any meal!