Welcome to the world of delightful pairings where sweet meets savoury in an irresistible dance of flavours. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s as elegant as it is easy to prepare – Pear and Bacon Bites. These little morsels are perfect for anyone looking to impress guests at a dinner party, seeking a sophisticated yet simple appetizer, or just wanting to indulge in a delicious snack. Their charm lies in the combination of juicy, ripe pears with the smoky richness of bacon, creating a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds. Not only are these bites visually appealing, but they also offer a versatile canvas for various toppings and drizzles. So, let’s get started and elevate your appetizer game with these Pear and Bacon Bites!

Pear and Bacon Bites

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe pears, cored and cut into bite-sized wedges
• 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wrap each pear wedge with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
3. Arrange the bacon-wrapped pears on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Mix the brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and black pepper in a small bowl.
5. Brush the bacon-wrapped pears with the balsamic glaze, ensuring each piece is well coated.
6. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crisp and caramelized.
7. Carefully remove from the oven and transfer the bites to a serving platter.
8. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over the warm bites and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
9. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!

How to Prepare:

Choose ripe pears that are firm to the touch to ensure the best results. This will allow them to hold their shape while baking. When wrapping the pears with bacon, ensure it’s snug but not too tight, as the bacon will shrink as it cooks. The balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness and helps the bacon caramelize beautifully in the oven. For a final touch of elegance, the sprinkle of blue cheese adds a creamy sharpness that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet pears and smoky bacon.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 24 bites
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 70 kcal per bite

Nutrition Facts:

Calories: 70 | Total Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 120mg | Total Carbohydrates: 8g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Protein: 2g

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush
• Toothpicks
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Storing Leftovers:

If you have any leftover Pear and Bacon Bites, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy.

Food or Drink Pairings:

These bites pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir. Consider a sparkling apple cider or a refreshing pear mocktail for non-alcoholic options.

Remember, the success of this recipe lies in the balance of flavours and textures. The pears’ ripe sweetness, the bacon’s umami, the tangy balsamic glaze, and the rich blue cheese combine to create a genuinely memorable appetizer. Whether hosting a formal event or looking for a quick and tasty snack, these Pear and Bacon Bites will surely delight you. Enjoy crafting this exquisite bite-sized treat and savour the chorus of flavours it brings to your palate!