Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe

Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe is a delightful and sophisticated dish that impresses at any gathering. These pears, stuffed with creamy blue cheese and crunchy walnuts, create a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for an elegant appetizer, this recipe shines with its simplicity and gourmet appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful combination of baked pears with rich blue cheese makes for a stunning dish that will wow your guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these stuffed pears as an appetizer, side dish, or even a fancy dessert topped with extra honey.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh pears and walnuts, this dish provides a delicious yet health-conscious option.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the preparation of your Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for evenly baking the stuffed pears while ensuring they remain intact.
• Skillet: Ideal for toasting walnuts to enhance their flavor before adding them to the pear filling.

Ingredients

For the Pears

• 2 ripe pears, halved and cored

For the Filling

• 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• 1 tbsp honey (plus extra for drizzling)

For Flavoring

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)

How to Make Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

Slice pears in half vertically and remove the core. This creates space for the delicious filling.

Step 2: Toast the Walnuts

Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Be sure to chop them once toasted for easy mixing.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the crumbled blue cheese and toasted walnuts. Optionally add 1 tbsp honey to enhance sweetness.

Step 4: Stuff the Pears

Spoon the blue cheese and walnut mixture into each pear half generously.

Step 5: Drizzle with Honey & Balsamic

Drizzle a bit of honey and balsamic vinegar over the pears. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.

Step 6: Bake

Place the stuffed pears on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until tender and cheese is melted.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve warm. Enjoy your Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears as an exquisite addition to any meal!

How to Serve Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe

Serving Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears can elevate any gathering or meal. These flavorful bites are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for a special occasion or casual get-together.

As an Appetizer

• Serve these stuffed pears on a platter as a delightful starter for your guests. Pair with a glass of sparkling water or non-alcoholic beverages for a refreshing touch.

With a Salad

• Place the warm stuffed pears atop a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with extra balsamic vinegar and olive oil for a light yet satisfying salad option.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include the stuffed pears in your charcuterie board alongside crackers, cheeses, and fruits. Their unique flavor will complement various textures and tastes.

As a Side Dish

• Serve the pears alongside roasted chicken or turkey. Their sweet and savory combination pairs well with hearty main dishes.

How to Perfect Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe

To ensure you achieve the best results with your Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe pears: Select pears that are slightly soft to the touch. Ripe pears provide the perfect sweetness and softness when baked.

• Toast walnuts properly: Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor. Keep an eye on them while toasting to prevent burning, as they can toast quickly.

• Mix fillings thoroughly: Ensure that the blue cheese and walnuts are evenly combined for consistent flavor in every bite.

• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to add more honey if you prefer sweeter flavors. Adjust according to your taste preferences before baking.

Best Side Dishes for Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe

When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears. Each dish enhances the overall dining experience.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.

2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing complements the flavors of the stuffed pears perfectly.

3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil and roast them until crispy for a crunchy contrast to the soft pears.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and balance against the rich blue cheese.

5. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs provides a light side that won’t overpower the main flavors of your dish.

6. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds elegance while offering a fresh taste that pairs beautifully with sweet pears.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s outcome.

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Not toasting the walnuts can lead to a lack of flavor. Toasting enhances their nuttiness and adds depth to your dish.
• Overfilling the Pears: Stuffing too much filling into the pears can cause them to overflow while baking. Ensure you have just enough so they hold together without spilling.
• Using Unripe Pears: Choosing unripe pears will result in a harder texture after baking. Opt for ripe pears for a tender and enjoyable bite.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to sprinkle black pepper can diminish the flavors of your dish. A little seasoning amplifies taste and balances sweetness.
• Not Checking Baking Time: Leaving the pears in the oven too long may lead to mushiness. Keep an eye on them, aiming for tenderness without overcooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed pears in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe

• Wrap each stuffed pear tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pears on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place pears in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes or until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about the Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe that might help you out.

Can I substitute blue cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use goat cheese or feta as alternatives if you prefer different flavors.

How do I choose the best pears for this recipe?

Look for ripe, firm pears that yield slightly when pressed at the stem end. This indicates they’re ready to eat.

What is an alternative to walnuts in this recipe?

Pecans or almonds work well as substitutes if you have nut allergies or preferences.

Can I make Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

How do I serve these stuffed pears?

These pears make an excellent appetizer or dessert. Serve warm, drizzled with honey and garnished with thyme for added flair.

Final Thoughts

The Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by trying different cheeses or nuts based on your taste. Don’t hesitate to get creative and enjoy this delightful dish at your next gathering!

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

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Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (2 halves per serving) 1x

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Description

Indulge in the elegance of our Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe, a sophisticated yet simple dish that combines sweet ripe pears with the rich creaminess of blue cheese and the crunch of toasted walnuts. This delightful appetizer is perfect for impressing guests at any gathering or enjoying a special meal at home. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a stunning presentation that balances savory and sweet flavors beautifully. Drizzle with honey and balsamic vinegar for an extra touch of gourmet flair, making these stuffed pears both visually appealing and delectably satisfying.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ripe pears, halved and cored
• 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• 1 tbsp honey (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Halve and core the pears to make space for the filling.
3. Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant; chop.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled blue cheese, chopped walnuts, and an optional tablespoon of honey.
5. Generously spoon the mixture into each pear half.
6. Drizzle with honey and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle with black pepper.
7. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until tender.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed pear half (85g)
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg