Pear and Gorgonzola Flatbread
Pear and Gorgonzola Flatbread is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, combining ripe, juicy pear slices with tangy, creamy Gorgonzola cheese on a crisp flatbread base. Quick to prepare and elegant in presentation, this versatile appetizer is perfect for casual snacks or sophisticated gatherings, offering a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
- Author: Kathy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Flatbread Base
- 1 store-bought or homemade flatbread (crisps well when baked)
- Olive oil, for brushing
Fruit
- 2 ripe but firm pears (Bartlett or Anjou), cored and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
Cheese
- 4 oz Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
Nuts
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons honey, for drizzling
- 1 cup fresh arugula or chopped fresh thyme
- Prepare the Flatbread: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush the flatbread on both sides with olive oil to help achieve a golden, crispy crust. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Arrange the Pear Slices: Core and thinly slice the pears to about 1/8 inch thickness. Layer the slices evenly across the flatbread surface without overlapping too much to prevent sogginess.
- Add the Gorgonzola: Crumble or break the Gorgonzola into small chunks and evenly distribute them over the pear slices to ensure each bite has a balance of creamy tanginess.
- Sprinkle Nuts and Bake: Scatter the toasted walnuts or pecans over the flatbread. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is soft and bubbling.
- Final Touches: Remove the flatbread from the oven and while still warm, drizzle honey over the top. Finish by adding fresh arugula or a sprinkle of chopped thyme before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Choose firm pears that are ripe yet hold their shape well to avoid sogginess.
- Toast nuts lightly beforehand to enhance flavor and crunch.
- Use Gorgonzola cheese in moderation to keep the balance of flavors without overpowering the pears.
- Watch baking time carefully to prevent burning, especially with thin flatbread bases.
- Add fresh herbs like arugula or thyme after baking to preserve their color and vibrant flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 flatbread
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: pear flatbread, gorgonzola flatbread, sweet and savory appetizer, easy appetizer, flatbread recipe, quick flatbread, gourmet snack