Pear and Gorgonzola Cheese on Toasted Walnut Bread
This exquisite combination of sweet pear and tangy Gorgonzola cheese atop toasted walnut bread is an elevated take on the classic cheese toast. It strikes a balance between the creamy, robust flavors of the cheese and the fresh, juicy sweetness of the pears, with a nutty crunch from the walnut bread. Perfect for a sophisticated breakfast, a light mezze, or an elegant appetizer, this dish will delight your taste buds and add a touch of gourmet to your meal.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
- Oven broiler
- Skillet
- Serving plate
Ingredients
- 4 slices walnut bread about 1 inch thick
- 2 ripe pears cored and thinly sliced
- 4 oz Gorgonzola cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup walnuts chopped
- fresh thyme leaves a pinch
- sea salt a pinch
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven's broiler on high.
- Place the walnut bread slices on a baking sheet and brush each with olive oil.
- Broil the bread for about 2 minutes or until it's toasted to your liking. Be sure to watch it carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Arrange the thin pear slices on top of each piece of toasted walnut bread, covering the surface evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese over the pear slices.
- Place the toasts back under the broiler for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- While the toasts are broiling, lightly toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Set aside.
- Once the toasts are done, transfer them to a serving plate. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with toasted walnuts, fresh thyme leaves, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Notes
If Gorgonzola is too strong for your taste, you can substitute it with a milder blue cheese.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free walnut bread.
Pears can be replaced with apples for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
The toast is best served immediately but can be prepped ahead by toasting the bread and slicing the pears, then assembling just before serving.