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Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears: Easy Elegant Appetizer Recipe

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Sharp, creamy blue cheese tucked inside juicy, ripe pears makes for an easy, elegant appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining or a special snack. The sweet, floral notes of pear balance beautifully with tangy blue cheese, crunchy nuts, and a drizzle of honey.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large ripe pears (Bosc, Bartlett, or Anjou), about 12 oz each
  • 3 oz (about 1/2 cup) creamy blue cheese (Gorgonzola, Roquefort, Stilton, or Danish Blue)
  • 1 oz (2 tbsp) cream cheese (optional, for milder/creamier filling)
  • 2 tbsp toasted walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped (optional, or use pumpkin/sunflower seeds for nut-free)
  • 2 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary leaves (or chives), plus more for garnish
  • Cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (for brushing pears)
  • Optional: pomegranate seeds, microgreens, dried cranberries, balsamic glaze for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the pears. Slice each pear in half lengthwise. Using a melon baller or teaspoon, gently scoop out the seed cavity to create a small bowl for the filling. If desired, slice a thin sliver off the underside so the halves sit flat.
  2. Brush the cut surfaces of the pears with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. In a small bowl, crumble the blue cheese. For a creamier filling, blend with cream cheese until smooth. Fold in chopped toasted walnuts or pecans, fresh thyme, and a pinch of cracked black pepper.
  4. Divide the blue cheese mixture evenly among the pear halves, pressing gently into the cavity and mounding slightly.
  5. If serving warm, preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake stuffed pears for 7-9 minutes until cheese is just softened. (Skip this step for a fresh, cold appetizer.)
  6. Drizzle each pear half with honey (or maple syrup). Sprinkle with extra nuts, fresh herbs, and a crack of black pepper. Add pomegranate seeds or microgreens if desired.
  7. Arrange pears on a platter and serve immediately if warm, or chill for up to 2 hours if you prefer them cold.

Notes

For best results, use firm, ripe pears and creamy blue cheese. Toasting the nuts enhances flavor and crunch. For a milder filling, blend blue cheese with cream cheese. Assemble just before serving for maximum freshness. To make vegan, use plant-based cheese and maple syrup. For nut-free, use pumpkin or sunflower seeds. Optional garnishes like pomegranate seeds or balsamic glaze add color and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: blue cheese stuffed pears, pear appetizer, easy appetizer, holiday appetizer, vegetarian appetizer, gluten-free appetizer, party food, elegant appetizer, fruit and cheese, honey, walnuts, entertaining

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/blue-cheese-stuffed-pears-easy-elegant-appetizer-recipe/