Sophisticated Blue Cheese Pears

This hearty blue cheese stuffed pears recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant appetizer that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. The combination of creamy blue cheese against juicy pears creates a sophisticated taste experience that never fails to impress dinner guests.

I first created these stuffed pears for a holiday dinner party when I needed something impressive but stress-free. The reaction was so enthusiastic that they've become my signature appetizer whenever I want to elevate a meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Ripe pears look for fruits that yield slightly to pressure but still maintain firmness for the best texture and flavor
• Blue cheese select a variety that suits your preference from mild Gorgonzola Dolce to robust Roquefort
• Walnuts toasting them beforehand significantly enhances their nutty flavor profile
• Honey choose a quality variety as its distinctive flavor will shine through
• Balsamic vinegar adds a pleasant tanginess that cuts through the richness of the cheese
• Fresh thyme provides an aromatic herbal note that complements both the fruit and cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the pears

Cut ripe but firm pears in half lengthwise then carefully remove the cores using a melon baller or small spoon ensuring you create a nice hollow for the filling while maintaining the pear structure

Create the filling

Combine the crumbled blue cheese with toasted walnuts and honey in a bowl mixing thoroughly until you achieve a cohesive mixture that will hold together when baked but still maintain texture from the walnuts

Fill the pears

Spoon generous portions of the cheese mixture into each pear cavity pressing gently to ensure it stays in place during baking without compressing it too firmly which would make the filling dense

Season and bake

Drizzle the prepared pears with balsamic vinegar ensuring each receives a light coating then sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper before baking at 190°C for 20 to 25 minutes until the pears become tender and the cheese turns gloriously bubbly

Garnish and serve

Remove the baked pears from the oven add an extra drizzle of honey for shine and sweetness then place fresh thyme sprigs atop each for both visual appeal and aromatic enhancement

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The first time I served these at a dinner party my friend who claimed to dislike blue cheese completely changed her mind after one bite. There's something magical about how the heat mellows the cheese's sharpness while the pear's sweetness creates perfect harmony on the palate.

Perfect Pear Selection

Choosing the right pears makes all the difference in this recipe. Anjou and Bosc varieties work exceptionally well as they hold their shape during baking without becoming mushy. The pears should be ripe enough to be flavorful but still firm enough to maintain structure. If your pears are underripe simply leave them at room temperature for 1 to 2 days before using them. The ideal pear will yield slightly to gentle thumb pressure at the neck.

Make-Ahead Options

These stuffed pears offer wonderful flexibility for entertaining. You can prepare them completely up to the baking stage cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When guests arrive simply pop them in the oven for fresh-made flavor without the lastminute prep work. If serving as part of a buffet they taste delicious at room temperature making them perfect for grazing tables. Leftovers if you have any can be gently reheated in a 150°C oven for about 10 minutes.

Cheese Variations

While blue cheese creates the classic version of this recipe you can easily customize based on preferences or what's available in your cheese drawer. Creamy goat cheese with a drizzle of honey creates a milder version that appeals to those who find blue cheese too assertive. Aged cheddar mixed with a touch of apple butter offers a completely different but equally delicious profile. For a festive holiday version try using Brie with a few dried cranberries mixed into the filling.

Serving Suggestions

These elegant stuffed pears shine as part of a thoughtfully planned menu. Serve them alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a light lunch. For cocktail parties present them on a wooden board with clusters of grapes and additional nuts for visual appeal. They pair beautifully with sparkling wine or a glass of dessert wine like Sauternes. For a complete dinner menu follow them with a simple roasted chicken and seasonal vegetables.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

Yes, you can substitute blue cheese with goat cheese or brie for a milder flavor while still achieving creaminess.

→ How do I select the right pears for this dish?

Choose pears that are ripe but firm to hold their shape during baking and ensure a tender texture.

→ Can this dish be served chilled?

Yes, these stuffed pears can be served warm out of the oven or chilled for a refreshing twist.

→ What are some optional garnishes for added flavor?

Try sprinkling crushed pecans, additional thyme, or even a touch of pomegranate seeds for extra texture and flavor.

→ Can I prepare the stuffed pears ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pears in advance and bake them just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.