I just love these savoury air fried stuffed pears, they make a perfect light lunch or appetiser to a main dish. These baked pears take around ten minutes to prep and are cooked to perfection in 20 minutes. You will come back to this recipe time and again! I use Bartlett pears as these give a tender and juicy result.
The combination of flavours from the pears, the feta cheese and the beetroot gives a real treat to the palette – sweet but also salty. The origin of feta cheese dates back centuries and has its historical roots in Greek and Mediterranean cultures. Feta cheese rose significantly in popularity in the 20th century and became a much more common household staple through that time. Feta cheese typically has a crumbly texture with a tangy and salty flavour. Meaning that it is the perfect companion for these air fried pears.
In addition to being delicious, this dish is also quite nutritious. Pears are a good source of fibre, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Feta cheese provides calcium and protein, while beetroot is rich in vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory compounds. The spinach and rocket add more vitamins, iron, and a lovely peppery flavour, making this a well-rounded and healthful dish.
Ingredients
1 pear
Beetroot
Feta cheese
Spinach
Rocket
Balsamic vinegar
Method
I washed and dried my pear then peeled (leave the skins on if you prefer). Next I cut it in half from top to bottom and used a spoon to remove the tough core and seeds in the centre. Then I hollowed out the middle, keeping the inside for a refreshing drink. I chopped my beetroot and feta and placed them into my hollowed out pear. Next I popped them into my air fryer on 180c for around 20 minutes, checking them half way through to ensure they didn’t brow too quickly.
I served my air fried stuffed pears with a spinach and rocket salad and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
For those who love experimenting with flavours, this recipe offers a wonderful canvas for creativity. You can try adding some walnuts or pecans to the stuffing for an extra crunch, or a drizzle of honey if you prefer a sweeter taste. If you like a bit of spice, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can give the dish an exciting kick. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to adapt it to suit your personal taste preferences.
These stuffed pears not only make a delightful lunch or appetiser but are also great for dinner parties. They look elegant on the plate and are sure to impress your guests with their unique combination of flavours and textures. Pair them with a crisp white wine or a light red for a sophisticated touch to your meal.
How will you be enjoying yours?
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