These Mediterranean-inspired baked pears are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, fruity, and nutty. When baked, the pears become soft, caramelized, and naturally sweet, while the honey creates a glossy glaze. The warm pears pair beautifully with tangy feta, crunchy walnuts, and vibrant fresh berries.

A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds a fragrant, herbal finish—classic Mediterranean simplicity at its best.

This dish works wonderfully as a healthy dessert, a brunch centerpiece, or even a refined holiday treat that looks stunning on the table.

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🍐 Ingredients

• 3–4 ripe pears, halved and cored

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1/2 cup mixed fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, etc.)

• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• Fresh thyme, for garnish

• Optional: pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for warmth

• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice to balance sweetness

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🔥 Instructions

1. Prepare the pears

• Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).

• Slice pears in half and gently scoop out the core with a spoon.

• Place them cut-side up on a baking tray lined with parchment.

2. Add honey

• Drizzle 2 tbsp honey evenly over the pears.

• If using cinnamon or cardamom, sprinkle lightly on top.

3. Bake

• Bake for 20–25 minutes, until pears are soft, fragrant, and slightly caramelized around the edges.

4. Add the toppings

Once the pears are warm and tender, top each half with:

• Fresh berries

• Chopped walnuts

• Crumbled feta

5. Finish and serve

• Drizzle a touch more honey if desired.

• Garnish with fresh thyme.

• Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

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🌿 Why This Recipe Works

• Pears + honey = natural caramelization and deep sweetness

• Feta + berries = bright Mediterranean balance of sweet-tart-salty

• Walnuts add healthy fats and crunch

• Thyme introduces an aromatic herbal note

• Simple ingredients, beautiful presentation, gourmet flavor with minimal effort

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:
✔ A light dessert after a Mediterranean-style dinner
✔ A brunch platter
✔ A festive or holiday dessert
✔ A healthy snack or treat with tea

Pairs beautifully with:

• Vanilla Greek yogurt

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream

• Hot herbal tea

• A drizzle of balsamic reduction

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🍐 Variations

1. Ricotta or mascarpone version

Swap feta for ricotta or mascarpone for a creamier dessert.

2. Vegan version

• Replace honey with maple syrup

• Use vegan feta or skip cheese entirely

3. Spiced autumn version

Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves + use pecans instead of walnuts.

4. Chocolate drizzle

A tiny drizzle of dark chocolate transforms this into a gourmet dessert.

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🥗 Nutrition Notes (Approx. per pear half)

Values vary depending on size of pear and toppings.

• Calories: 150–200

• Fiber: Good source from pears and berries

• Healthy fats: From walnuts

• Protein: Small amount from feta

• Naturally sweetened (mostly fruit + honey)

• No refined sugar

A great option for a nutrient-dense, naturally sweet dessert.

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❓ Related Questions (Q&A Style)

✔ Can I prepare these pears ahead of time?

Yes—bake the pears and store the toppings separately. Reheat pears before serving.

✔ Can I use apples instead of pears?

Absolutely. Apples bake beautifully with the same toppings.

✔ What type of pears work best?

Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett pears—they hold shape well during baking.

✔ Can I use frozen berries?

Yes. Add them after baking, not before, so they don’t release too much liquid.

✔ Do I have to use feta?

No—goat cheese, ricotta, mascarpone, or cream cheese are excellent alternatives.

✔ Can I make this recipe sugar-free?

Use sugar-free syrup or skip honey and rely solely on the fruit’s natural sweetness.