Irresistible Savory Puff Pastry with Pears, Gorgonzola, and Walnuts: Your Perfect Fall Appetizer

As the leaves begin to turn and a crisp breeze hints at changing seasons, our thoughts naturally drift towards the comforting flavors and cozy gatherings that autumn brings. While some parts of the world, like Los Angeles with its lingering 100+ degree heat, might still be dreaming of cooler days, the promise of Fall is just around the corner, officially beginning September 22nd. And what better way to herald this delightful season than with a dish that perfectly encapsulates its rich, complex flavors?

This beautiful Savory Puff Pastry with Pears, Gorgonzola, and Walnuts is precisely that kickoff. It’s an elegant, yet remarkably easy-to-make appetizer that promises to impress. Imagine the golden, flaky layers of puff pastry cradling a harmonious blend of sweet, ripe pears, the delightful tang of crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, and the earthy crunch of walnuts, all elevated by a subtle drizzle of roasted walnut oil. Served simply with a bed of peppery arugula and a hint of raw honey, it’s a match made in culinary heaven.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Puff Pastry

This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of textures and flavors that are both sophisticated and deeply satisfying. The buttery, airy puff pastry provides a delicate base, allowing the stars of the show to shine.

• Sweetness of Pears: Ripe pears, especially in-season red varieties, bring a natural, mellow sweetness that softens the sharper notes of the cheese and onion. Their delicate texture becomes even more tender after baking.
• Saltiness and Tang of Gorgonzola: This blue cheese is a powerhouse of flavor. Its distinctive salty, pungent, and creamy notes provide a fantastic counterpoint to the pear’s sweetness, creating an incredibly balanced profile.
• Earthy Crunch of Walnuts: Walnuts add a crucial textural element and a rich, earthy flavor that grounds the dish. When lightly toasted, their flavor deepens, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.
• Aromatic Walnut Oil & Thyme: A brush of roasted walnut oil infuses the pastry with a nutty aroma, while fresh thyme leaves add a fragrant, herbaceous note, tying all the components together.
• Versatility: Whether you’re looking for a stunning starter for a dinner party, a sophisticated addition to your charcuterie board, or a delightful light lunch, this tart fits the bill perfectly.
• Ease of Preparation: Despite its elegant appearance, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. It relies on ready-made puff pastry, cutting down on prep time significantly.

Mastering Your Puff Pastry: Tips for Success

Working with puff pastry can seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite forgiving. Here are a few tips to ensure your savory tart turns out perfectly golden and flaky every time:

• Proper Thawing is Key: Always follow the package instructions for defrosting your puff pastry. Usually, this involves letting it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. If it’s too cold, it will crack when you try to unfold or roll it. If it’s too warm, it becomes sticky and difficult to handle.
• Keep it Cool: Puff pastry performs best when it’s kept relatively cool. If your kitchen is warm, work quickly, or even pop the pastry back into the fridge for a few minutes if it becomes too soft.
• Lightly Flour Your Surface: A lightly floured surface and rolling pin will prevent sticking. Don’t use too much flour, as it can make the pastry tough.
• Even Thickness: Aim for an even thickness when rolling out the dough. This ensures consistent baking and a uniform golden crust.
• Perforate for a Flat Base (Optional): For some tarts, you might want to prick the bottom of the pastry with a fork before adding toppings. This helps prevent the center from puffing up too much. For this recipe, we want some puff, so a light pricking around the edges is often enough, or skip it entirely if you like a more rustic look.
• Egg Wash for Golden Shine: While optional, an egg wash (egg white whisked with a little water) brushed on the exposed edges of the pastry creates a beautiful golden-brown, glossy finish. This not only enhances the visual appeal but can also contribute to a slightly crispier edge.

Recipe: Puff Pastry with Pears, Gorgonzola, and Walnuts

Puff Pastry with Pears, Gorgonzola and Walnuts

An elegant, savory puff pastry with sweet pears, tangy gorgonzola, and earthy walnuts, perfect for any occasion.

By Ana | Claudia’s Table

September 6, 2020

★★★★★ (5/5 from 4 votes)

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Prep Time

30 mins

Cook Time

20 mins

Total Time

50 mins

Course

Appetizer

Cuisine

American

Servings

8 wedges

Calories

253 kcal per wedge

Equipment

• half sheet rimmed baking sheet
• Parchment paper or non-stick baking mat
• Pastry brush (optional, for egg wash)

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry (from a 17.3 oz/490g package), defrosted
• 1 whole red pear, thinly sliced vertically
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (only a few rings needed for flavor)
• 1/8 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp roasted walnut oil (2 tsp for pastry, 1 tsp for drizzle) – La Tourangelle Roasted Walnut Oil recommended
• 1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• 1 tbsp raw honey, for drizzling after baking
• 3 cups fresh arugula, for serving (see notes for dressing)
• 1 sprig fresh Thyme, leaves only
• Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 whole egg white, whisked with 1 tbsp water (for egg wash, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Defrost the puff pastry according to package instructions, typically about 20-30 minutes at room temperature.
3. Line a 13″ x 18″ (half sheet) rimmed baking pan with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat. This prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
4. Once defrosted and pliable, carefully unroll the puff pastry dough. Gently roll it out to fit the dimensions of your prepared sheet pan.
5. Lightly brush the entire surface of the rolled-out dough with about 2 teaspoons of roasted walnut oil. This adds a layer of nutty flavor and helps the pastry crisp up.
6. Arrange the thinly sliced pears evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Follow with the thinly sliced red onion rings, distributing them across the tart.
7. Generously sprinkle the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese over the pears and onions. Then, scatter the chopped walnuts and fresh thyme leaves on top.
8. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle a tiny bit more roasted walnut oil over the toppings for added richness.
9. If using an egg wash, whisk the egg white with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, carefully brush this mixture onto the exposed edges of the puff pastry. This will give the crust a beautiful golden-brown sheen.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is gloriously puffed, golden brown, and cooked through. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
11. Carefully remove the tart from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with raw honey while it’s still warm – the honey will slightly melt into the tart, enhancing the sweet notes.
12. Cut the puff pastry into 8 elegant wedges.
13. Serve immediately with a side of lightly dressed arugula for a fresh, peppery finish.

Notes

To dress the arugula, use a simple and light vinaigrette, such as extra virgin olive oil and white balsamic vinegar, or your favorite lemon vinaigrette. The peppery notes of the arugula perfectly cut through the richness of the pastry.

Nutrition

Nutritional information is calculated online and should be used as a guide. Serving: 1 wedge, Calories: 253 kcal.

Keywords

appetizer, easy, fall recipe, vegetarian, pear tart, gorgonzola tart, walnut tart, puff pastry tart

Unleashing Your Creativity: Customization & Substitutions

This savory puff pastry is truly a “clean slate” for your culinary creativity. While the pear, Gorgonzola, and walnut combination is a classic, feel free to customize it to your liking or to what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Flavored Oils: If roasted walnut oil isn’t available or you prefer a different profile, consider hazelnut oil for another nutty dimension, or even a good quality basil oil for an herbal twist. A high-quality extra virgin olive oil can also work beautifully, offering a more traditional Mediterranean touch.
• Onion Varieties: The sharp taste of red onions provides a wonderful layer of flavor, complementing the tang of Gorgonzola. However, thinly sliced shallots would offer a milder, more delicate onion flavor, while caramelized yellow onions could add an extra layer of sweetness and depth.
• Pear Alternatives: While red pears are wonderfully sweet and beautiful, especially when in season, any ripe pear variety will work. Just ensure it’s firm enough to slice thinly but soft enough to be flavorful. Very thinly sliced apples, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith (for a tarter bite), would also be an amazing substitution, bringing a different kind of autumnal fruitiness.
• Cheese Swaps: Not a fan of Gorgonzola? This tart is incredibly versatile with other cheeses.
  • Creamy Brie: Offers a milder, buttery creaminess that melts beautifully.
  • Gruyere: A semi-hard Swiss cheese with a nutty, sweet, and slightly salty flavor that pairs wonderfully with fruit.
  • Extra Sharp Cheddar: For those who love a robust, tangy cheese that stands up to the sweetness of the pear.
  • Goat Cheese: A fresh, tangy goat cheese would be a fantastic, bright addition, especially if you enjoy a more pronounced tartness.
• Nutty Substitutions: If walnuts aren’t your favorite, or if you’re looking for a different texture, try:
  • Pecans: Offer a sweeter, butterier flavor.
  • Hazelnuts: Provide a richer, almost chocolatey nuttiness when roasted.
  • Macadamia Nuts: For a buttery, creamy crunch.
  • Pine Nuts: A milder, subtly sweet nut that toasts quickly and adds a delicate texture.
• Greens for Serving: While simply dressed arugula is perfect for its peppery kick, you can also serve this tart with baby greens, delicate microgreens, or even wilted spinach for a different texture and flavor.
• Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or sage, which also pair beautifully with pears and rich cheeses, especially in autumn.

Don’t hesitate to play around with these suggestions to create your own signature savory tart!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Puff Pastry with Pears, Gorgonzola, and Walnuts is more than just an appetizer; it’s a versatile dish that can elevate various dining experiences. Here are a few ways to serve it and what to pair it with:

• Elegant Appetizer: As intended, cut into small squares or wedges, it’s a sophisticated starter for any dinner party. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma make it a showstopper.
• Charcuterie Board Star: Elevate your next charcuterie or cheese board by including this tart. It provides a warm, baked element that contrasts wonderfully with cured meats, olives, and other cheeses.
• Light Lunch or Brunch: Serve a larger slice alongside a fresh green salad (beyond just arugula) for a satisfying and flavorful light meal. It’s perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch with friends.
• Wine Pairings: The sweet and savory profile of this tart makes it a fantastic candidate for wine pairing.
  • White Wines: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a slightly sweet Riesling, or a rich Chardonnay would complement the pears and cheese.
  • Red Wines: For red wine lovers, a light-bodied Pinot Noir or a fruity Beaujolais would be a delightful match without overpowering the delicate flavors of the tart.
  • Sparkling Wine: A dry Prosecco or Cava can also be a refreshing pairing, cutting through the richness of the pastry and cheese.
• Dessert Twist (Optional): While savory, the sweetness of the pear and honey allows it to transition beautifully. For a semi-sweet treat, a drizzle of balsamic glaze in addition to honey can add another layer of complexity.
• Make Ahead Tips: While best served fresh, you can prepare the toppings in advance and store them separately. Roll out the pastry and add toppings just before baking for optimal crispness. Reheat leftovers gently in the oven to restore crispiness.

And there you have it – a beautiful, savory Puff Pastry with Pears, Gorgonzola and Walnuts, ready to delight your senses and welcome the warmth of Fall!

Enjoy!!

If you love puff pastry and are looking for a sweet treat, be sure to check out our Easy Apple Pie Puff recipe—they are incredibly tasty!

For more small bites and appetizer inspiration, explore our Grilled Baby Peppers with Mozzarella or our creamy Whipped Feta and Yogurt Dip.

Inspired by this recipe? Make sure to mention us or tag us on Instagram. All content and photographs ©Claudia’s Table and claudiastable.com