Pear and Roquefort Crostini drizzled with Honey

Pear and Roquefort Crostini with Honey Recipe from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 2 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pear and Roquefort Crostini drizzled with Honey is a delicious and elegant appetizer that combines the creamy and tangy flavors of Roquefort cheese with the sweetness of ripe pears and honey. This dish is perfect for entertaining guests or as a special treat for yourself.

History

The combination of pears and blue cheese is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for centuries. The addition of honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of the cheese. Crostini, which are small slices of toasted bread topped with various toppings, originated in Italy and have become a popular appetizer around the world.

Ingredients

1 medium-sized French baguette, sliced 0.5 inch thick into approximately 14 – 16 pieces
4 tbsp olive oil
4 oz (113 g) roquefort cheese, crumbled (alternatively, you can use other types of blue cheese such as gorgonzola or Maytag)
1 ripe pear, halved, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tbsp honey

How to prepare

Preheat the broiler.
Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and brush each slice with olive oil. Set the oven rack about 5 inches from the broiler. Broil the bread for about 45 seconds, then remove.
Turn the bread slices over and evenly top them with Roquefort cheese. Return the bread to the oven and broil for 30 seconds or until the cheese is melted.
Remove from the oven and top each slice with pear slices.
Arrange the crostini on a platter, drizzle with honey, and serve.

Variations

Substitute blue cheese for the Roquefort for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to slice the bread evenly to ensure that it toasts evenly under the broiler.

- Be careful not to overcook the crostini under the broiler, as the cheese can quickly melt and burn.

- Choose ripe pears that are firm but slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pear and Roquefort Crostini as an appetizer before a meal or as a light snack on its own.

Cooking Techniques

Broiling the crostini ensures that the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted quickly and evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of crusty bread in place of the French baguette.

- Substitute pears with apples or figs for a different twist.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the crostini ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to ensure they are fresh and crispy.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the crostini on a decorative platter and drizzle with honey just before serving for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pear and Roquefort Crostini with a crisp white wine or a sparkling cider for a perfect combination of flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them under the broiler for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pear and Roquefort Crostini contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pear and Roquefort Crostini contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pear and Roquefort Crostini contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Pear and Roquefort Crostini contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Pears are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, while Roquefort cheese provides calcium and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the bread and dairy from the cheese.

Summary

Pear and Roquefort Crostini is a moderate source of carbohydrates and fats, with a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Pear and Roquefort Crostini drizzled with Honey is a simple yet sophisticated appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. With the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is a delightful addition to any gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Pear and Roquefort Crostini drizzled with Honey. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in the countryside. My aunt was a wonderful cook and always had the most delicious meals prepared for us whenever we visited. One day, she decided to make these crostini for a special family gathering, and I was lucky enough to be her sous chef for the day.

As I watched my aunt prepare the ingredients, I was in awe of her skill and precision in the kitchen. She carefully sliced ripe pears into thin wedges, crumbled the sharp Roquefort cheese, and drizzled golden honey over the top. The combination of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors was like nothing I had ever tasted before.

I asked my aunt where she had learned to make such a unique and delicious dish, and she told me that she had picked up the recipe from a friend who had traveled to France and brought back the idea. From that day on, I was determined to master the art of making Pear and Roquefort Crostini drizzled with Honey myself.

Over the years, I experimented with different variations of the recipe, tweaking the ingredients and proportions until I found the perfect balance of flavors. I added a sprinkle of chopped walnuts for crunch, a drizzle of balsamic glaze for depth, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a touch of herbaceousness.

I shared my creation with friends and family, and it quickly became a favorite at gatherings and parties. People would always ask me for the recipe, and I was more than happy to pass on the tradition of this delicious dish.

As I grew older and started a family of my own, I continued to make Pear and Roquefort Crostini drizzled with Honey for special occasions and holidays. It became a staple at our Thanksgiving table, a must-have appetizer at Christmas parties, and a go-to dish for birthdays and anniversaries.

One day, my granddaughter came to visit me and expressed an interest in learning how to make the crostini. I was overjoyed to pass on the recipe to her, just as my aunt had done for me so many years ago.

We spent the afternoon in the kitchen together, slicing pears, crumbling cheese, and drizzling honey over toasted baguette slices. As I watched my granddaughter carefully assemble the crostini, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and nostalgia.

When we finally sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, I saw the same look of wonder and delight on my granddaughter's face that I had felt all those years ago. The combination of flavors brought back memories of family gatherings, laughter, and love shared around the table.

As I looked at my granddaughter, I knew that the tradition of making Pear and Roquefort Crostini drizzled with Honey would continue for generations to come. And I couldn't be happier knowing that a simple recipe could bring so much joy and connection to my family.

So, whenever I make these crostini now, I do so with a heart full of memories and a soul filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food and loving company. And I hope that one day, my granddaughter will pass on this recipe to her own loved ones, keeping the tradition alive for years to come.