Pears and Blue Cheese Appetizer

This pears and blue cheese appetizer is elegant, refreshing, and full of flavor. I love how the sweetness of ripe pears pairs beautifully with the creamy sharpness of blue cheese and the crunch of walnuts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s incredibly quick to prepare but tastes sophisticated. The combination of juicy pears, tangy cheese, and nutty walnuts makes it perfect for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a light snack. I also enjoy that it requires only a few ingredients yet always feels special.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

3 ripe pears
4 tablespoons lemon juice
200 grams or 7 oz blue cheese ex. gorgonzola
60 grams or ½ cup walnuts

Directions

1. I start by washing the pears and cutting them into quarters, removing the core.
2. I slice each quarter into wedges and immediately toss them with lemon juice to keep them from browning.
3. I cut the blue cheese into small cubes or crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
4. I arrange the pear slices on a serving platter and top with the blue cheese.
5. I sprinkle the walnuts over the top for crunch.
6. I serve right away as a fresh appetizer.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep, so I plan for 10 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I drizzle honey or balsamic glaze over the top for extra sweetness and depth. I also like to toast the walnuts lightly before adding them for a richer flavor. For a milder version, I use goat cheese or brie instead of blue cheese.

Storage/Reheating

I prefer serving this appetizer fresh, but if I need to store it, I keep the pears, cheese, and walnuts separate in airtight containers. I assemble just before serving to keep the pears from browning.

FAQs

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?

Fresh pears taste best, but canned pears can work in a pinch if drained well.

What type of blue cheese works best?

I usually use gorgonzola, but Roquefort or Stilton also work beautifully.

Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?

I prep the pears and toss them in lemon juice up to 2 hours in advance, then assemble right before serving.

Do I need to toast the walnuts?

Not necessarily, but I like to toast them lightly for extra crunch and flavor.

Can I use a different fruit instead of pears?

Yes, apples, figs, or even peaches pair nicely with blue cheese and walnuts.

How do I choose the best pears?

I pick pears that are ripe but still firm so they hold their shape when sliced.

Can I serve this with bread or crackers?

Yes, I often serve it alongside crostini or crisp crackers for a heartier appetizer.

Is there a vegan alternative for blue cheese?

Yes, vegan blue cheese alternatives are available and work well in this dish.

What wine pairs well with this appetizer?

I like pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sweet dessert wine like Sauternes.

Can I add greens to make it a salad?

Yes, I toss the pears, cheese, and walnuts over arugula or mixed greens for a light salad.

Conclusion

I enjoy making this pears and blue cheese appetizer because it’s simple, elegant, and always a crowd-pleaser. The mix of sweet pears, creamy cheese, and crunchy walnuts creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s one of my favorite quick dishes to serve when I want something both easy and impressive.

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