Description
Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries combines the sweetness of roasted pears with creamy feta cheese, tart cranberries, and a drizzle of honey. This simple yet elegant dish brings a wonderful balance of flavors, perfect for fall.
Ingredients
4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
2 tablespoons honey (preferably raw)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Chopped walnuts for garnish
Substitution Tips:
For a vegan version, substitute the feta with plant-based cheese options like almond or cashew cheese.
Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetener.
Nut allergies? Skip the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds for a crunchy alternative.
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Halve the pears and remove the cores. Use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out a little more from the center of each pear half, creating a well for the filling. - Assemble the Pears:
Arrange the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Drizzle the pears with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. This will help them roast beautifully and add richness. Fill each pear’s center with crumbled feta cheese and chopped cranberries. - Bake the Pears:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The pears should soften slightly, and the feta should begin to melt and turn golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The goal is soft pears, but not mushy. - Add Honey and Garnishes:
Once the pears are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. Drizzle each pear generously with honey, adding a sweet, glossy finish. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the pears for an aromatic touch. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance all the flavors. - Optional: Garnish with Walnuts:
For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top. They add a nice crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy feta and juicy pears. - Serve and Enjoy:
These baked pears are best served warm right out of the oven, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature if you prepare them ahead of time.
Notes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted meats for a more substantial meal.
Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy fall touch.
For a more tangy contrast, drizzle balsamic glaze over the pears before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pear half
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
