This dish captures the essence of the Mediterranean — sweet, savory, and aromatic — blending fresh fruits, tangy cheese, and honey-roasted nuts. It’s perfect as an elegant dessert, a brunch centerpiece, or a light appetizer paired with chilled white wine.

🌿 Ingredients (Serves 3–6)

For the Pears:

  • 3 ripe but firm pears (Bosc or Bartlett work best)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of sea salt

For the Filling:

  • ½ cup fresh blueberries
  • ½ cup fresh raspberries or cranberries
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese or blue cheese, depending on preference)
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped mint (optional)

For Drizzling:

  • 1 tablespoon honey (or date syrup for a deeper flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic glaze (optional but highly recommended)

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the pears in half lengthwise, keeping the stems for presentation.
  3. Use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds and a little extra flesh to create a small hollow for the filling.
  4. Brush each pear half with olive oil or melted butter, then drizzle lightly with honey. Sprinkle with cinnamon and a tiny pinch of salt.

Step 2: Bake the Pears

  1. Place the pears cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until they are tender but still hold their shape.

Step 3: Add the Mediterranean Filling

  1. Remove pears from the oven and let them cool slightly.
  2. Fill each hollow with a mix of blueberries, raspberries, crumbled feta (or blue cheese), and chopped walnuts.
  3. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves generously over the top.

Step 4: Final Touch

  1. Return the pears to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, just until the cheese begins to soften and the nuts toast slightly.
  2. Remove from oven and drizzle with honey and, if desired, a touch of balsamic glaze for that Mediterranean depth.
  3. Garnish with a few more fresh thyme leaves or mint for color and freshness.

🍯 Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt or mascarpone.
  • Pair with a drizzle of tahini or pomegranate molasses for a bold Middle Eastern twist.
  • Enjoy it cold for breakfast or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter.

💡 Chef’s Tips

  • Cheese choice: Feta adds saltiness, blue cheese adds pungency, and goat cheese gives a creamy tang — all work beautifully.
  • Make it vegan: Substitute the cheese with a vegan feta and replace honey with maple or agave syrup.
  • Add texture: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or pistachios for an extra crunch.