Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary pears into a culinary masterpiece that will make your guests swoon! These roasted baby pears, delicately caramelized and filled with creamy herbed goat cheese, are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen. Combining the sweet sophistication of French cuisine with simple, elegant techniques, this recipe promises to turn even the most ordinary dinner into an extraordinary dining experience.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 baby pears, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash the baby pears carefully and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a small spoon or melon baller, gently remove the core from each pear half to create a small cavity.
- Drizzle olive oil over the pear halves, ensuring each piece is lightly and evenly coated. Sprinkle salt and black pepper across the pear surfaces to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Place the pear halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are tender and begin to caramelize around the edges.
- While the pears are roasting, prepare the herbed goat cheese. In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese with freshly chopped thyme, using a fork to blend thoroughly and create a smooth, fragrant mixture.
- Remove the pears from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes. Carefully turn them cut-side up and fill each cavity with the herbed goat cheese mixture.
- Return the pears to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, just long enough to slightly warm the goat cheese and allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve warm as an elegant appetizer or light dessert.
Tips
- Choose firm, ripe baby pears for the best results - they should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy.
- Use a melon baller or small spoon to create a neat cavity for the goat cheese, ensuring an even and elegant presentation.
- For maximum flavor, use fresh thyme and high-quality goat cheese.
- Watch the pears carefully during roasting to prevent burning - caramelization is key, but you don't want charred edges.
- Let the pears rest briefly after roasting to allow flavors to settle and make handling easier.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature contrast between the warm, soft pears and creamy cheese.
- For a gourmet touch, consider garnishing with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted nuts before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 25mg
