Elegant roasted pears filled with creamy blue cheese and topped with crunchy candied walnuts and fresh rosemary — a stunning appetizer or dessert perfect for festive gatherings or a sophisticated treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the natural sweetness of ripe pears with the bold tang of blue cheese and the delightful crunch of candied walnuts. The addition of fresh rosemary adds an aromatic touch, making it a perfect choice for both appetizers and desserts. Its elegant presentation and harmonious blend of flavors are sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

• 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled

• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

• Freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Brush the cut sides of the pears with melted butter and place them cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Roast the pears for about 15–20 minutes, until tender but still holding their shape.

4. Meanwhile, in a small skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts with honey and brown sugar until caramelized, about 3–4 minutes. Let cool.

5. Remove the pears from the oven and fill the centers with crumbled blue cheese.

6. Top with the candied walnuts and a sprinkle of black pepper.

7. Garnish each pear with a small rosemary sprig before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Alternatives: Substitute blue cheese with goat cheese, Brie, or Gorgonzola for a different flavor profile.

• Nut Options: Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds if preferred.

• Sweet Enhancements: Drizzle with maple syrup instead of honey for a richer sweetness.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the candied walnuts for a warm, spiced twist.

• Fruit Additions: Incorporate dried cranberries or figs for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover roasted pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the pears may become mushy upon thawing.

• Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

What type of pears are best for this recipe?

Firm varieties like Bosc or Anjou pears are ideal as they hold their shape well during roasting.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the pears and prepare the candied walnuts in advance. Assemble and warm them just before serving.

Is there a non-dairy alternative to blue cheese?

You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives available in stores or opt for a nut-based cheese spread.

How can I make the candied walnuts less sweet?

Reduce the amount of honey and brown sugar used in the caramelization process to adjust the sweetness to your preference.

Can I use other herbs besides rosemary?

Yes, thyme or sage can be used as alternatives to rosemary for a different aromatic profile.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

This dish pairs well with a fresh arugula salad or crusty bread for a complete appetizer.

Is it necessary to peel the pears?

Peeling is optional. Keeping the skin adds texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if you prefer a smoother texture.

Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?

Absolutely. Pecans or almonds can be used as substitutes for walnuts.

How do I prevent the pears from browning if preparing in advance?

Brush the cut sides with lemon juice to slow down the oxidation process.

Can I add a balsamic glaze?

Yes, drizzling a balsamic reduction over the assembled pears adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness.

Conclusion

Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese and Candied Walnuts offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, making them a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. Whether served as an appetizer or a dessert, their elegant presentation and rich taste are sure to impress. Experiment with different variations to suit your palate and enjoy this sophisticated treat.

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings (half pear per serving)
• Category: Appetizer, Dessert
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American, French-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese and Candied Walnuts are an elegant and irresistible dish, featuring tender roasted pears filled with creamy blue cheese, crunchy caramelized walnuts, and aromatic rosemary. Perfect as a sophisticated appetizer or a unique dessert for festive gatherings, holidays, or special dinners!

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Ingredients

• 3 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

• 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled

• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

• Freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Brush the cut sides of the pears with melted butter and place them cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

• Roast the pears for about 15–20 minutes, until tender but still holding their shape.

• Meanwhile, in a small skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts with honey and brown sugar until caramelized, about 3–4 minutes. Let them cool.

• Remove the pears from the oven and fill the centers with crumbled blue cheese.

• Top with the candied walnuts and a sprinkle of black pepper.

• Garnish each pear with a small rosemary sprig before serving.

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Notes

• Choose pears that are ripe but firm (like Bosc or Anjou) to prevent them from becoming too soft while roasting.

• Swap blue cheese for goat cheese or gorgonzola if desired.

• Add a drizzle of extra honey before serving for additional sweetness.

• Best served warm or at room temperature.