Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This flatbread is the ultimate sweet-and-savory combination. The caramel-like sweetness of pears pairs beautifully with the tangy richness of blue cheese, while fresh arugula adds a peppery bite. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and versatile enough to serve as a starter, lunch, or elegant snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Flatbread or naan
- Ripe pears
- Blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
- Olive oil
- Honey or balsamic glaze
- Fresh arugula
- Red onion (optional)
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place flatbread on a baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Thinly slice pears and arrange them evenly over the flatbread.
- Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese and optional red onion slices on top.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the flatbread edges are golden and crisp.
- Remove from oven, drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze, and top with fresh arugula and nuts if using.
- Slice and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 as a main dish or 4 as an appetizer. Preparation takes 10 minutes, baking takes 10 minutes, and total time is about 20 minutes.
Variations
- Swap blue cheese with goat cheese or feta for a milder flavor.
- Use apples instead of pears for a different fruit pairing.
- Add prosciutto or pancetta for a savory twist.
- Try fig jam as a base spread before adding toppings for extra sweetness.
- Use puff pastry instead of flatbread for a more decadent version.
Storage/Reheating
This flatbread is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to crisp it back up. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the flatbread soggy.
FAQs
Can I make this flatbread ahead of time?
You can prep the toppings in advance, but bake the flatbread just before serving for the best texture.
What type of pears work best?
Bosc or Anjou pears hold their shape well and offer a nice balance of sweetness and firmness.
Can I use store-bought flatbread?
Yes, naan, pita, or pre-made flatbread work perfectly and save time.
Is there a substitute for blue cheese?
Yes, goat cheese, feta, or even brie can be used for a different flavor profile.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, prosciutto, pancetta, or grilled chicken make great additions.
How do I prevent the flatbread from getting soggy?
Keep pear slices thin and don’t overload the toppings. Baking at a high temperature helps keep the base crisp.
Can I grill the flatbread instead of baking?
Yes, grilling works well and adds a smoky flavor. Just watch closely to prevent burning.
What nuts pair best with this dish?
Walnuts and pecans are classic choices, but hazelnuts or almonds also work beautifully.
Can I make this flatbread vegan?
Yes, use a dairy-free cheese alternative and skip the honey in favor of maple syrup or agave.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling Prosecco pairs nicely with the flavors.
Conclusion
Pear and blue cheese flatbread with arugula is a quick yet elegant dish that highlights the harmony of sweet, savory, and peppery flavors. Perfect for entertaining or a simple weeknight meal, it’s versatile, delicious, and guaranteed to impress.
Print
Pear and Blue Cheese Flatbread with Arugula
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings (main) or 4 servings (appetizer)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pear and Blue Cheese Flatbread with Arugula is a crisp, elegant flatbread topped with sweet pears, tangy blue cheese, and peppery arugula, finished with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze. It’s perfect as a sophisticated appetizer, light main, or party snack.
Ingredients
- 2 flatbreads or naan
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or similar)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1–2 teaspoons honey or balsamic glaze
- 1 cup fresh arugula
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place flatbreads on a baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Arrange thin pear slices evenly over each flatbread.
- Top with crumbled blue cheese and optional red onion slices.
- Bake 8–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and edges of flatbread are golden and crisp.
- Remove from oven and drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze. Top with fresh arugula and nuts if desired.
- Slice and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a milder cheese flavor, substitute goat cheese or feta.
- Use apples instead of pears for variation.
- Top with prosciutto or pancetta for a savory twist.
- Puff pastry can replace flatbread for a richer version.
- Best enjoyed fresh — reheating in the oven maintains crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 flatbread
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg