Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to any table, you’ve come to the right place! Our Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Recipe is a wonderful combination of flavors that feels both gourmet and comforting. This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s incredibly easy to make, yet it looks and tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these roasted pears are sure to impress!

The sweetness of the pears pairs wonderfully with the tanginess of blue cheese, while the walnuts add a nice crunch. Drizzle with honey, and you’ve got a dish that is bursting with flavor. It’s perfect as an appetizer or even as a delightful dessert. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Elegant Presentation: The beautiful colors and textures make it an impressive addition to any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these roasted pears as an appetizer or dessert—it’s great for any occasion!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe balances indulgence and health.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the components in advance, making meal prep a breeze.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful recipe, you only need simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delicious dish.

For the Roasted Pears

• 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

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Try Different Cheeses: Use feta or goat cheese if blue cheese isn’t your favorite.
• Add Fresh Fruits: Mix in some sliced figs or apples for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Nut Alternatives: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if you prefer something different.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for some heat!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking and helps achieve that lovely caramelization on the pears.

Step 2: Prepare the Pears

Wash the pears thoroughly and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the core with a spoon or melon baller. This step is important because we want those juicy halves to roast evenly while keeping their shape.

Step 3: Coat with Butter and Lemon Juice

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and lemon juice. Toss the pear halves gently in this mixture until they are well-coated. The butter adds richness while the lemon juice enhances their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Roast the Pears

Place the coated 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. Roasting intensifies their flavor and brings out their natural sugars.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Nuts

Once your pears are beautifully roasted, remove them from the oven and sprinkle crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts over each half. Return them to the oven for another 5 minutes until the cheese is slightly melted. This step creates that delicious savory contrast with sweet pears.

Step 6: Drizzle with Honey

Finally, take your roasted pears out of the oven one last time! Drizzle each half generously with honey for that perfect finishing touch. The honey not only adds sweetness but also creates a lovely glaze that ties everything together.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and serve warm. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish! Whether as an appetizer or dessert, these roasted pears will surely win hearts at your table!

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

Ready to take your roasted pears to the next level? Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose ripe but firm pears: Selecting pears that are ripe yet firm will ensure they hold their shape during roasting while providing the perfect sweetness.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh blue cheese and walnuts will enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish, making it richer and more satisfying.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is a great addition, feel free to experiment with nutmeg or even a pinch of cayenne for a unique twist that complements the sweetness of the pears.

• Roast at the right temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C) before you start roasting. This ensures an even cook and caramelization of the pears.

• Don’t skip the honey drizzle: A final drizzle of honey before serving adds an extra layer of sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the savory blue cheese.

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

Presenting your roasted pears beautifully can elevate your dining experience! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme: A sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves not only adds color but also a fragrant herbal note that complements the flavors.
• Chopped chives: For a mild onion flavor and a pop of green, chopped chives make for a lovely garnish.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pears, adding freshness to your meal.
• Quinoa pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and nuts provides a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and savory notes of roasted pears.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini bring a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the dish.
• Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous tossed with lemon zest and herbs makes for an excellent accompaniment that absorbs all those delicious flavors.

By following these tips and pairing suggestions, you’re sure to impress your guests or simply enjoy a cozy evening at home indulging in this exquisite treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Here’s how to store and handle your leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted pears to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To enjoy, simply reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Freezing

• Prepare the pears as per the recipe but do not add the cheese and walnuts until you’re ready to serve.
• Place cooled pears in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the thawed pears on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little extra honey if desired.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. Add cheese and walnuts just before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about our roasted pears recipe!

Can I use other types of cheese besides blue cheese?

Yes! While blue cheese adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with Gorgonzola for a milder taste or even try feta or goat cheese if you prefer something different.

How do I prepare the Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe for a large gathering?

Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Roasting multiple trays at once works well in a larger oven. This dish is easy to scale up while maintaining its delicious flavor.

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

These pears pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, grilled meats, or as part of a cheese board. They also make an elegant dessert when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or yogurt.

How long will Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey recipe brings joy to your kitchen! Its delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it truly special. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or dessert, it’s sure to impress your guests or elevate your everyday meals. Enjoy making this dish as much as I do!