Savory Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Introduction

Baked pears are a delightful balance of sweetness and savory flavor, making them an ideal dish for any occasion. Pairing tender pears with creamy feta, rich honey, and tart cranberries creates a decadent yet simple dessert or appetizer worth savoring.

As the pears roast, their natural sugars caramelize, enhancing their flavor and creating a delicious contrast against the salty feta. The honey adds a touch of sweetness while the cranberries introduce a pop of tartness, bringing the whole dish together. So let’s dive into this recipe that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 medium ripe pears
• 200 grams feta cheese, crumbled
• 100 grams dried cranberries
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions & Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash the pears thoroughly, then slice them in half lengthwise and remove the cores.
3. In a bowl, mix the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, thyme leaves, olive oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Place the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Generously fill each pear half with the feta and cranberry mixture.
5. Drizzle honey over each filled pear half evenly.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the pears are tender and slightly caramelized.
8. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

FAQs

What type of pears are best for baking?

Bartlett or Bosc pears are excellent choices due to their firm texture and sweet flavor.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries can be used, but they are more tart and may need additional honey to balance the flavors.

How can I ensure the pears don’t turn mushy?

Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.

What if I overbake the pears?

If overbaked, the pears can become mushy. Keep an eye on them during the final minutes of baking.

Can I substitute feta with another cheese?

Goat cheese or ricotta can serve as a delicious alternative if you prefer a milder flavor.

What can I do if the filling is too dry?

Adding a bit more honey or olive oil to the filling can enhance moisture and flavor.

Conclusion

Baked pears with feta, honey, and cranberries offer a unique culinary experience that balances flavors and textures beautifully. This dish is perfect for gatherings or as a special treat after dinner.

The combination of sweet and savory creates a memorable dish that friends and family will enjoy. Don’t hesitate to adapt the ingredients to your taste and enjoy exploring different variations.

Recipe Card

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.