Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

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🍐 Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

Description

This elegant dish combines the natural sweetness of ripe pears with the tang of blue cheese, the crunch of walnuts, and the vibrant burst of fresh berries — all drizzled with golden honey. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light dessert, it’s a stunning blend of flavors and textures that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe but firm pears (Bosc or Bartlett), halved and cored

  • 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)

  • ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (or gorgonzola for a milder flavor)

  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts (lightly toasted)

  • 2 tbsp honey (plus more for serving)

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

  • ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)

  • Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  2. Prepare Pears – Slice the pears in half lengthwise and remove the cores using a spoon or melon baller.

  3. Arrange in Pan – Place the pear halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Brush them with melted butter and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of honey.

  4. Bake – Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.

  5. Top and Bake Again – Remove from oven, sprinkle each pear half with blue cheese, walnuts, and a few berries. Return to oven for another 5–7 minutes until the cheese is slightly melted.

  6. Finish – Drizzle with remaining honey and a pinch of cinnamon if desired.

  7. Serve Warm – Garnish with mint leaves and extra berries for a colorful finish.

Notes

  • You can substitute goat cheese or feta for blue cheese if you prefer a milder or tangier flavor.

  • Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor — bake them for 5 minutes at 350°F before using.

  • Works great with apples if pears aren’t in season.

  • Serve with a glass of dessert wine or alongside a cheese platter for an elegant touch.

Tips

  • Choose pears that are ripe but firm, so they hold shape after baking.

  • For added richness, drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of honey.

  • A sprinkle of sea salt flakes before serving brings out the flavor contrast beautifully.

  • Use frozen berries if fresh ones aren’t available — no need to thaw.

Servings

  • Serves: 4 people

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~210

  • Protein: 4g

  • Fat: 10g

  • Carbohydrates: 28g

  • Fiber: 5g

  • Sugars: 22g

  • Calcium: 6% DV

  • Vitamin C: 15% DV

Benefits

  • Heart-healthy: Walnuts and pears provide antioxidants and fiber that support cardiovascular health.

  • Bone strength: Blue cheese contains calcium and phosphorus.

  • Digestive health: Pears are rich in pectin, a soluble fiber aiding digestion.

  • Antioxidant boost: Berries deliver vitamin C and anthocyanins that fight inflammation.

Q & A

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Bake the pears and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add cheese, berries, and honey just before serving.

Q: What can I use instead of honey?
A: Maple syrup or agave nectar both work beautifully.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, as long as your blue cheese is made without animal rennet.

Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Absolutely — use vegan blue-style cheese, agave syrup instead of honey, and plant-based butter.

Q: What wine pairs well with this dish?
A: Try a Sauternes, Riesling, or Moscato to complement the sweet-savory balance.

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