Pear, Gorgonzola & Walnut Flatbread — sweet pears, tangy Gorgonzola, and toasted walnuts on crisp flatbread—bold, elegant, utterly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant flavor pairing of sweet, savory, and tangy
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in under 30 minutes
- Great use for seasonal pears
- Customizable with different cheeses or greens
- Perfect for entertaining or a light, satisfying meal
- Vegetarian-friendly and packed with textures
Ingredients
- 1 store-bought flatbread or pizza dough (homemade if preferred)
- 1 ripe but firm pear (e.g., Bosc or Anjou), thinly sliced
- ½ cup (60g) crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts
- 2 cups (60g) arugula
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the flatbread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the flatbread with olive oil.
- Arrange the thinly sliced pear evenly over the flatbread.
- Sprinkle the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and chopped walnuts on top.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the flatbread are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and top with fresh arugula.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Servings And Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 410 kcal
Variations
- Cheese swap: Use blue cheese, goat cheese, or brie for a different flavor profile.
- Add protein: Top with prosciutto or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- Seasonal fruit twist: Try figs, apples, or grapes instead of pears.
- Nutty alternatives: Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flatbread base.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the flatbread soggy.
FAQs
What Type Of Pear Is Best For This Recipe?
Bosc or Anjou pears are ideal because they hold their shape and sweetness when baked.
Can I Use A Homemade Dough?
Yes, homemade pizza dough or flatbread dough works great and adds a rustic touch.
Is Gorgonzola Too Strong For Some People?
If you prefer a milder flavor, try substituting with goat cheese or feta.
Can This Be Made Ahead Of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead, but assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.
Is There A Substitute For Balsamic Glaze?
Balsamic vinegar can be used, though it will be less sweet and more acidic.
Can I Make This Without Nuts?
Yes, just omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for crunch.
Is This Recipe Suitable For Vegetarians?
Yes, it contains no meat and is vegetarian-friendly.
How Can I Make It A Meal?
Add a protein like grilled chicken or pair it with a side salad for a fuller meal.
What Wine Pairs Well With This Flatbread?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir pairs beautifully.
Can I Grill This Flatbread Instead Of Baking?
Yes, grill over medium heat for 4–6 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Conclusion
Pear, Gorgonzola & Walnut Flatbread is a gourmet-inspired dish made simple. Its blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy elements makes it a standout choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. Whether served as an appetizer or a light entrée, this flatbread offers elegance and flavor in every bite.
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Pear, Gorgonzola & Walnut Flatbread
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sophisticated yet simple flatbread that brings together the sweetness of ripe pears, the sharp tang of Gorgonzola cheese, and the crunch of toasted walnuts. Topped with fresh arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this dish is perfect as an appetizer, light lunch, or elegant party shareable.
Ingredients
- 1 store-bought flatbread or pizza dough
- 1 ripe but firm pear (e.g., Bosc or Anjou), thinly sliced
- ½ cup (60g) crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts
- 2 cups (60g) arugula
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the flatbread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the flatbread with olive oil.
- Arrange the thinly sliced pear evenly over the flatbread.
- Sprinkle the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and chopped walnuts on top.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the flatbread are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and top with fresh arugula.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin pear slices.
- To enhance the nutty flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before adding.
- Best served warm but also delicious at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 flatbread
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg