Description
If you’re in search of a dish that embodies warmth and sophistication, look no further than Roasted Pears with Goat Cheese & Maple-Walnut Drizzle.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 ripe but firm pears, halved
- 120g goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp butter
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Toasted baguette slices
- Fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Oven: First, you’ll want to prep your oven by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). Make sure to line your baking tray with parchment paper as this will create a non-stick surface for the pears as they roast, allowing them to caramelize beautifully without sticking.
- Prepare the Pears: Next, take your ripe but firm pears and cut them in half. Carefully scoop out a small cavity from each center using a melon baller or a small spoon. This cavity will be filled with a wonderfully delicious goat cheese mixture.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled goat cheese, chopped fresh thyme, lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper. Stir gently until well mixed. This filling will provide a creamy, tangy base for each pear half, making each bite a burst of flavor.
- Stuff the Pears: With the mixture prepared, it’s time to fill the pears. Generously spoon the goat cheese filling into the cavity of each pear half, ensuring they are well-stuffed. Place the stuffed pears on the lined baking tray, spacing them out evenly.
- Make the Maple-Walnut Drizzle: In a small pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the chopped walnuts, maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon. Stir continuously until the walnuts become fragrant and nicely caramelized in the syrup, usually about 2-3 minutes. This drizzle will not only enhance flavor but add delightful crunch to the dish.
- Roast and Serve: Spoon the warm walnut mixture over the stuffed pears and place the tray in the preheated oven. Roast the pears for about 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden and bubbling. The caramelized edges and the warm, gooey interior make for a mouthwatering presentation. Once ready, serve the warm pears with toasted baguette slices and fresh herbs on top. You can drizzle additional maple syrup over them for an added touch of sweetness if desired.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, toast walnuts lightly before adding them to the drizzle mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Protein: 5 g