This Pear, Gorgonzola, and Walnut Flatbread is a gourmet-style dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy. With ripe pears, tangy Gorgonzola cheese, and toasted walnuts layered over a crisp flatbread and finished with peppery arugula and balsamic glaze, this elegant recipe is ideal for a light meal, elegant appetizer, or an impressive party dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This flatbread is as beautiful as it is delicious. The combination of flavors and textures—sweet fruit, bold cheese, and earthy nuts—is sophisticated but incredibly easy to assemble. It’s perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a refined, quick weeknight meal. Plus, it’s flexible and can be customized with seasonal toppings or different cheeses to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Store-bought flatbread or pizza dough (or homemade)
Ripe but firm pear (such as Bosc or Anjou), thinly sliced
Crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
Chopped walnuts
Arugula
Olive oil
Balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using pizza dough, roll it out thinly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Assemble Flatbread: Brush the flatbread lightly with olive oil. Arrange the pear slices evenly over the surface. Sprinkle with crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and chopped walnuts.
Bake: Place the flatbread in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese has melted.
Add Arugula: Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh arugula.
Finish: Drizzle with balsamic glaze (or a light splash of balsamic vinegar) and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve: Slice and serve warm as a starter, lunch, or light dinner.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving

Variations

Cheese Options: Substitute blue cheese, goat cheese, or brie for Gorgonzola if desired.
Nut Alternatives: Use pecans or sliced almonds instead of walnuts.
Add Protein: Top with thinly sliced prosciutto or grilled chicken for a heartier dish.
Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme before baking for added aroma.
Sweet Touch: Add a few dried cranberries or a drizzle of honey after baking for a hint of sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve crispness.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the pears and arugula may lose their texture upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pear?

Yes, Bosc and Anjou pears work best due to their firm texture, but Bartlett pears can also be used if not overly ripe.

Is Gorgonzola too strong?

It’s bold, but balanced by the sweetness of the pears and the peppery arugula. For a milder taste, use goat cheese or feta.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the base with cheese, pears, and walnuts ahead. Bake and add arugula and glaze just before serving.

What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?

Reduce balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until thickened, or use straight vinegar for a tangier finish.

Can I use puff pastry instead?

Yes, puff pastry can be used for a lighter, flakier base—just adjust the baking time according to package instructions.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it’s fully vegetarian as written.

What wine pairs well with this flatbread?

Try a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flatbread or crust substitute.

Will the arugula wilt?

A little wilting is normal and adds to the flavor, but you can add it just before serving to keep it fresh.

Can I use fresh figs instead of pears?

Absolutely—figs pair beautifully with Gorgonzola and walnuts.

Conclusion

Pear, Gorgonzola, and Walnut Flatbread is a stunning dish that marries sweet, salty, tangy, and earthy flavors in each bite. Quick to prepare yet restaurant-worthy, this flatbread is ideal for entertaining or enjoying a gourmet meal at home. With its appealing look and vibrant taste, it’s sure to become a favorite for both casual and formal occasions.

Pear, Gorgonzola, and Walnut Flatbread

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Douaa
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4-servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Pear, Gorgonzola, and Walnut Flatbread is a gourmet yet easy-to-make appetizer or light meal. With sweet ripe pear slices, tangy Gorgonzola cheese, crunchy walnuts, and fresh arugula drizzled with balsamic glaze, this elegant flatbread is perfect for parties, wine nights, or stylish gatherings.

Ingredients

1 store-bought flatbread or pizza dough
1 ripe but firm pear (e.g., Bosc or Anjou), thinly sliced
1/2 cup (60g) crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts
2 cups (60g) arugula
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
Assemble Flatbread: Place flatbread on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil. Top evenly with pear slices, Gorgonzola, and walnuts.
Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and edges are crisp and golden.
Top and Serve: Remove from oven, top with fresh arugula, and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve warm as an appetizer or light entrée.