Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make, you’re in the right place! Our Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe is a true showstopper. This delightful combination of sweet pears, rich blue cheese, and crunchy walnuts drizzled with honey is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.

What makes this recipe so special is its unique balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the roasted pears pairs beautifully with the tangy blue cheese, while the walnuts add that perfect crunch. Plus, it’s a dish that can be whipped up in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Both kids and adults will love this sweet-savory treat!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Roast your pears ahead of time and simply drizzle them with honey when you’re ready to serve.
• Gorgeous Presentation: Impress your guests! The colors and textures make for a stunning centerpiece on any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

We’re using simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home! Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful recipe.

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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your flavor preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Different Nuts: Swap out walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
• Try Other Cheeses: If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or feta would also work wonderfully.
• Incorporate Fruits: Add some dried cranberries or figs for extra sweetness and texture.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a warm twist!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, wash and slice your pears in half lengthwise. Removing the core will help them roast evenly and ensures each bite is smooth and sweet.

Step 2: Coat with Butter

Place the pear halves cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them generously with melted butter. This step not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that golden-brown color as they roast.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice and Cinnamon

Drizzle fresh lemon juice over each pear half to brighten their flavor. If you’re using cinnamon, sprinkle it lightly over the top. The citrus will balance out the sweetness beautifully!

Step 4: Roast the Pears

Pop those beauties into the preheated oven! Roast them for about 15-20 minutes until they’re tender but still hold their shape. Keep an eye on them; you want them soft enough to pierce easily with a fork but not mushy.

Step 5: Finish with Toppings

Once roasted, take out the pears and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts on top while they’re still warm so that everything melts together deliciously. Drizzle extra honey over each serving for that final touch of sweetness!

And there you have it—a fabulous Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts and Honey Recipe that’s sure to delight everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

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

These roasted pears are incredibly easy to make, but a few tips can elevate your dish to a whole new level!

• Choose the right pears: Opt for firm varieties like Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc. They hold their shape well during roasting and provide the perfect balance of sweetness.
• Perfect your caramelization: Make sure to roast the pears cut-side down for the first half of cooking. This allows the natural sugars to caramelize beautifully, enhancing their flavor.
• Balance flavors: If you find blue cheese too strong, try substituting it with Gorgonzola or even goat cheese. This way, you can enjoy a milder flavor that still complements the sweetness of the pears.
• Add texture with walnuts: Toasting your walnuts before adding them not only enhances their flavor but also adds a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft pears.
• Drizzle generously: Don’t be shy with that honey drizzle! A touch more honey right before serving adds an extra layer of sweetness and makes for a beautiful presentation.

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

Serving these roasted pears is all about creating an inviting presentation that highlights their gourmet appeal. Here are some ideas to wow your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme: A sprinkle of fresh thyme not only adds color but also introduces a hint of earthy flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Pomegranate seeds: Scatter a few pomegranate seeds on top for a burst of color and tartness—this adds both visual appeal and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pears.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens tossed in a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterbalance to the rich flavors of the roasted pears.
• Quinoa pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf loaded with herbs and nuts makes for a hearty side dish that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and savory elements of this recipe.
• Grilled chicken or tofu: Seasoned grilled chicken or marinated tofu offers a protein-packed option that complements the dish without overpowering it. Their mild flavors allow the roasted pears to shine.
• Crostini: Serve warm crostini topped with cream cheese or hummus as an appetizer alongside your roasted pears for an elegant touch that enhances your dining experience.

Enjoy crafting this delectable dish and impressing your friends and family with its deliciousness!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey recipe is not only delicious but also ideal for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted pears to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze the pears before adding cheese and walnuts.
• Place the cooled pears on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pears on a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through; add cheese and walnuts during the last few minutes if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

Can I use other cheeses in the Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder taste, try using Gorgonzola or feta cheese as alternatives. Both will complement the sweetness of the pears beautifully!

How do I make the Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan-friendly, substitute the butter with plant-based butter or olive oil, use a dairy-free cheese alternative, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

What type of pears work best for roasting?

Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc pears are excellent choices due to their firm texture that holds up well during roasting while developing a lovely sweetness.

Can I add additional toppings to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add dried cranberries or fresh arugula for extra flavor and texture. A sprinkle of balsamic glaze can also enhance the dish beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey as much as I do! This recipe is truly special because it balances flavors so wonderfully—sweetness from the pears, creaminess from the cheese, and crunch from the walnuts. Whether served as an appetizer or dessert, it’s bound to impress your guests or delight your family. Happy cooking!