Griddled Pears with Goat Cheese and Hazelnut Dressing

Name: Griddled Pears with Goat Cheese and Hazelnut Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 pears; 100 g goat's cheese; 40 g toasted hazelnuts; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp balsamic or red wine vinegar; 1 handful watercress; 1 pinch sea salt

Elevate your salad game with these warm, charred pears paired with creamy goat cheese and a crunchy hazelnut vinaigrette. This sophisticated yet simple dish works perfectly as an elegant starter or a light, flavorful lunch.

Servings4 Portions

Prep Time10 Mins

Cook Time5 Mins

Difficulty

Easy

Ingredients

pears
2
goat's cheese
100 g
toasted hazelnuts
40 g
olive oil
3 tbsp
balsamic or red wine vinegar
1 tbsp
watercress
1 handful
sea salt
1 pinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the dressing by whisking together the finely chopped toasted hazelnuts, olive oil, balsamic or red wine vinegar, and a pinch of sea salt in a small bowl until well combined.

Core the pears and slice each one into six even wedges. Ensure the pears are ripe but still firm enough to hold their shape during cooking.

Heat a griddle pan over high heat. Once hot, place the pear wedges on the pan and grill for 1-2 minutes per side until they are slightly softened and show distinct charred griddle marks.

Arrange three warm pear wedges on each plate. Tuck fresh watercress sprigs around the pears, crumble the goat's cheese over the top, and finish by drizzling the hazelnut dressing generously over the dish.

Chef's Tips

For the best results, use firm-ripe pears like Bosc or Anjou. If watercress is unavailable, peppery rocket (arugula) makes a fantastic substitute. You can also toast the hazelnuts in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before chopping to enhance their nutty aroma.