Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese and Pistachios

Some dishes strike that perfect balance between sweet and savory, rustic and elegant—and this one does it all. Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese and Pistachios is a showstopping appetizer or dessert that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. Think warm, tender pears, lightly caramelized in the oven, their sweetness melting into the salty tang of blue cheese and the nutty crunch of pistachios. It’s a harmony of contrasts that just works—trust me, it’s worth every bite.

Behind the Recipe

This dish came to life one fall evening when pears were at their ripest, and I needed something that felt special without hours in the kitchen. I remembered a little wine bar in Florence that served roasted figs with gorgonzola and honey, and I knew I could channel that same vibe with ingredients already on hand. The result? A cozy, crowd-pleasing plate that feels fancy but is secretly simple.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Combining fruit with cheese is a tradition that spans cultures—from French poached pears with Roquefort to Italian figs with ricotta. This dish takes that timeless pairing and adds a modern twist by roasting the pears to bring out their natural sugars. The use of blue cheese brings a bold, creamy contrast while pistachios add texture and earthy elegance. It’s refined enough for dinner parties, yet casual enough for a quiet evening treat.

Why You’ll Love Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese and Pistachios

There’s something magical about this dish—and here’s why it’ll win you over:

Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, side, or even a light dessert.
Budget-Friendly: Just a few ingredients with gourmet flavor results.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep, ready in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Swap cheeses or nuts to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Bold, balanced flavors everyone will rave about.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast pears ahead, assemble just before serving.
Great for Leftovers: Refrigerate and gently rewarm—still delicious.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To get the best flavor and texture, here’s what I recommend:

• Use ripe but firm pears—they hold their shape while roasting.
• Roast cut-side up so the juices stay in and caramelize.
• Crumble cheese just before serving to keep it creamy and bold.
• Toast the pistachios for an extra nutty punch.
• Finish with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for added depth.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

A few basics will make this recipe effortless:

Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: For roasting the pears evenly.
Sharp Knife and Spoon: To halve and core the pears neatly.
Small Skillet (optional): For toasting pistachios if not pre-roasted.
Serving Platter: To plate the pears beautifully.

Ingredients in Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese and Pistachios

Simple, elegant ingredients come together to create stunning flavor contrasts:

Ripe Pears: 3 medium, halved and cored — sweet, juicy base for the dish.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon — helps the pears roast evenly and adds richness.
Salt: pinch — enhances all the flavors.
Crumbled Blue Cheese: ½ cup — sharp, creamy contrast to the sweet pears.
Shelled Pistachios: ⅓ cup, roughly chopped — for crunch and earthy nuttiness.
Honey or Balsamic Glaze: 1–2 tablespoons — optional drizzle to tie it all together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to tailor this dish to your pantry or preferences:

Pears: Try apples or figs for a seasonal twist.
Blue Cheese: Use gorgonzola, goat cheese, or brie for a milder flavor.
Pistachios: Swap with walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts.
Honey/Balsamic Glaze: Maple syrup or pomegranate molasses also work well.

Ingredient Spotlight

Blue Cheese: Its tangy, creamy flavor adds boldness and elevates the pears into something luxurious.
Pears: When roasted, they become soft and caramelized—pure comfort in every bite.

Instructions for Making Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese and Pistachios

These come together beautifully in just a few steps. Here’s how to make them:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or tray with parchment or lightly grease.

2. Combine Ingredients:
Halve and core the pears. Lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.

3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
Place the pears cut-side up in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly.

4. Assemble the Dish:
Roast pears for 20–25 minutes, until soft and lightly caramelized at the edges.

5. Cook to Perfection:
While the pears roast, toast the pistachios in a dry skillet over low heat for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant (if needed).

6. Finishing Touches:
Remove the pears from the oven. Immediately top each with a generous crumble of blue cheese and a sprinkle of pistachios.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange on a platter and drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This dish is all about contrasts. The pears are warm and soft, the cheese is creamy and bold, and the pistachios bring a crunchy pop. Roasting concentrates the pear’s sweetness, while the blue cheese melts slightly on contact, creating a savory-sweet balance that keeps each bite exciting.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Choose pears that are ripe but not mushy—they should give slightly to the touch.
• For extra caramelization, add a tiny sprinkle of brown sugar before roasting.
• Serve with crackers or toast points for a heartier appetizer.

What to Avoid

• Don’t over-roast—pears should be tender, not falling apart.
• Avoid using overly soft or underripe pears—they won’t roast well.
• Don’t add the cheese before roasting—it will melt too much and lose texture.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 190

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can roast the pears up to a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Rewarm gently in the oven or serve at room temp. Assemble with cheese and pistachios just before serving for the best texture. Leftovers can be stored for 2–3 days.

How to Serve Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese and Pistachios

Serve as a starter with a glass of white wine or prosecco, or as a light dessert with a spoon of Greek yogurt. For a salad course, place on a bed of arugula and drizzle with extra balsamic. It’s stunning on a charcuterie board too.

Creative Leftover Transformations

These roasted pears are versatile—here’s how to repurpose them:

• Slice and add to salads with arugula and walnuts.
• Mash slightly and spread on toast with extra cheese.
• Use as a topping for flatbreads or savory tarts.

Additional Tips

• Use a melon baller to neatly core the pears.
• Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary during roasting for an herbal touch.
• Use a blue cheese with medium sharpness to avoid overpowering the dish.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation is everything—place pears on a large platter with a drizzle of glaze, sprinkle of herbs, and edible flowers if you like. Use a marble board or wooden tray for that upscale, rustic aesthetic.

Variations to Try

• Prosciutto-Wrapped: Wrap pears in thin prosciutto before roasting.
• Spiced Pears: Add cinnamon and cardamom to the olive oil before brushing.
• Goat Cheese Swap: Use creamy goat cheese for a milder, tangy variation.
• Crispy Topping: Add a sprinkle of panko with the pistachios for extra crunch.
• Sweet Finish: Serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for dessert.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use canned pears?
A1: Not recommended—fresh pears roast better and hold their shape.

Q2: Can this be served cold?
A2: Yes, it’s delicious at room temperature or lightly chilled.

Q3: Can I prep this ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely—roast pears in advance, add toppings before serving.

Q4: Is this a dessert or appetizer?
A4: It works beautifully as both!

Q5: Can I use another cheese?
A5: Yes—try gorgonzola, goat cheese, or ricotta.

Q6: Do I need to peel the pears?
A6: No, the skin helps them hold shape and adds texture.

Q7: Can I add honey before roasting?
A7: You can, but it may burn—best to drizzle after baking.

Q8: What pears work best?
A8: Bosc or Anjou pears are ideal—they’re firm and sweet.

Q9: Can I double this recipe?
A9: Yes, just use a larger baking tray or two.

Q10: How do I toast pistachios?
A10: In a dry skillet over low heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Conclusion

Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese and Pistachios is the kind of dish that makes people pause mid-bite and ask for the recipe. It’s elegant without being fussy, rich yet light, and oh-so-simple to pull off. Serve it once, and it’s sure to become a signature.

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