If you’re looking for a snack that perfectly balances sweet, savory, tangy, and crunchy, then this Pear, Gorgonzola, and Pickled Walnut Pizzettes Recipe is going to be your new favorite indulgence. These bite-sized pizzettes are a delightful blend of ripe pear slices, creamy and tangy Gorgonzola cheese, and the unexpected zing of pickled walnuts that adds irresistible character. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just treating yourself to something special, these pizzettes bring together simple ingredients for a sophisticated flavor experience that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Pear, Gorgonzola, and Pickled Walnut Pizzettes Recipe is a breeze thanks to its straightforward ingredient list. Each element plays a starring role, whether it’s the juicy sweetness of the pear, the decadent tang of Gorgonzola, or the crisp brightness of the olive oil.
- Pizza dough: Choose store-bought for convenience or homemade for extra fresh flavor – this forms the crisp, chewy base.
- Large ripe pear: Thinly sliced to provide juicy sweetness and a tender bite that contrasts the cheese perfectly.
- Gorgonzola cheese: Crumbled to deliver rich, creamy, and slightly sharp notes that enrich each pizzette.
- Pickled walnuts: Thinly sliced for a punch of sharp, tangy crunchiness that elevates the whole dish.
- Olive oil: A light brush adds moisture and helps achieve a golden, crisp crust.
- Fresh thyme leaves: Sprinkled on top to add an aromatic herbal lift that ties the flavors together.
- Freshly ground black pepper: For a subtle kick that enhances the cheese and walnuts without overpowering.
- Honey (optional): Drizzled for a hint of sweet glaze that complements the tangy cheese beautifully.
- Fresh arugula leaves (optional): Added as a peppery garnish to bring freshness and color.
How to Make Pear, Gorgonzola, and Pickled Walnut Pizzettes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Oven and Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prep step ensures your pizzettes will bake evenly and prevents sticking, making cleanup a breeze later on.
Step 2: Cut Dough Into Rounds
Roll out your pizza dough to about 0.2 inch thickness—thin enough to crisp beautifully but still sturdy to hold all those toppings. Then use a 2.75 inch round cutter to create 12 perfect circles, placing them neatly on the prepared baking sheet. These little rounds will be the perfect handheld pizzettes you can’t wait to nibble on.
Step 3: Oil the Bases
Lightly brush each dough circle with olive oil using a pastry brush. This simple step helps create a golden, crispy crust while adding a lovely subtle fruitiness that complements the toppings magnificently.
Step 4: Assemble Toppings
Distribute thin slices of ripe pear evenly over each dough base, making sure each pizzette gets a generous portion. Then sprinkle the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and sliced pickled walnuts on top, followed by fresh thyme leaves and a dash of freshly ground black pepper. This layering creates a beautiful harmony of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Pop the pizzettes into your hot oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye out for golden, crisp edges and bubbling, slightly melting cheese. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once baked, remove the pizzettes from the oven and if you like, drizzle lightly with honey for a touch of sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the tangy Gorgonzola and pickled walnuts. Top with fresh arugula leaves for an added peppery freshness and serve immediately while warm, so every bite bursts with flavor.
How to Serve Pear, Gorgonzola, and Pickled Walnut Pizzettes Recipe
Garnishes
For a gorgeous presentation, a handful of fresh arugula leaves on top adds a vibrant green pop and a subtle, peppery crunch. A light drizzle of honey can also enhance the sweet-savory balance, while a sprinkle of extra thyme leaves elevates the herbal notes beautifully. Consider cracked black pepper for a finishing touch that invites a subtle heat.
Side Dishes
These pizzettes pair wonderfully with a crisp, refreshing salad—think mixed greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. They also work great alongside a bowl of tangy tomato soup or a chilled glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, whose acidity complements the pear and cheese perfectly. Simple sides keep the spotlight on these flavorful little tarts.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these pizzettes on a rustic wooden board or slate platter with clusters of fresh herbs around for an inviting, artisanal vibe. You can also place them on individual small plates garnished with additional pickled walnuts or a sprinkle of toasted walnuts for extra crunch. Another fun idea is to offer a honey dipping bowl on the side for guests to customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, simply store the pizzettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They remain delicious but be sure to add any fresh arugula just before serving to keep it crisp.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked pizzettes by assembling them on a baking sheet and placing them in the freezer until firm. Transfer to a sealed bag or container and freeze for up to a month. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time, baking from frozen for best results.
Reheating
For reheating, place pizzettes on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains some crispness. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the crust soggy, and the magical texture will be compromised.
FAQs
Can I substitute Gorgonzola with another cheese?
Absolutely! Blue cheese or Roquefort make excellent substitutes if you want a similar tangy richness. For a milder flavor, goat cheese or feta can also add wonderful creaminess without overpowering the pears.
What are pickled walnuts, and can I make them at home?
Pickled walnuts are green walnuts preserved in a vinegar and spice brine, offering a unique tangy and slightly sweet crunch. They’re widely available at specialty stores but can be made at home with some patience if you enjoy preserving.
Can I use fresh walnuts instead of pickled?
Fresh walnuts can provide crunch but lack the acidic brightness that pickled walnuts bring. If you don’t have pickled walnuts, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice to mimic that tanginess.
Is it necessary to use honey? What if I prefer savory only?
Honey is optional and adds a lovely touch of sweetness that balances the cheese and walnuts. If you prefer to keep it completely savory, feel free to skip it—these pizzettes are flavorful enough on their own!
How can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
For a vegan version, swap out the Gorgonzola for a tangy plant-based cheese or seasoned nut cheese, and use olive oil or vegan butter to brush the dough. Double-check that the dough doesn’t contain dairy or eggs, and omit the honey or replace it with agave syrup.
Final Thoughts
This Pear, Gorgonzola, and Pickled Walnut Pizzettes Recipe is a treasure trove of flavor and texture, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in with something extra special. The combination of juicy fruit, creamy cheese, and zingy walnuts just works so beautifully, proving that simple ingredients can create moments of pure joy. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making these pizzettes again and again!
Print
Auto Draft
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 pizzettes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pear, Gorgonzola, and Pickled Walnut Pizzettes are delightful mini flatbreads featuring a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Crispy pizza bases are topped with ripe pear slices, crumbled creamy Gorgonzola cheese, and tangy pickled walnuts, all enhanced by fresh thyme and a drizzle of honey. Ideal as elegant appetizers or a sophisticated snack, they come together quickly with store-bought or homemade dough and bake to golden perfection in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Pizza Bases
- 8.8 oz pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 large ripe pear, thinly sliced
- 3.5 oz Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 6 pickled walnuts, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp honey, optional for drizzling
- Fresh arugula leaves, optional
Instructions
- Prepare oven and workspace: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
- Cut dough into rounds: Roll out the pizza dough to approximately 0.2 inch thickness. Use a 2.75 inch round cutter to cut out 12 circles and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Oil the bases: Lightly brush each dough circle with olive oil using a pastry brush to ensure a crisp and golden crust when baked.
- Assemble toppings: Evenly distribute thin pear slices over each pizzette. Then sprinkle crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and sliced pickled walnuts on top. Finish by scattering fresh thyme leaves and adding freshly ground black pepper to taste for layered flavor.
- Bake until golden: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges of the pizzettes are golden and crisp, and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pizzettes from the oven. Optionally, drizzle with honey for a sweet contrast and garnish with fresh arugula leaves for a peppery freshness. Serve warm to fully enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm pears to avoid soggy pizzettes.
- Pickled walnuts add a tangy crunch; if unavailable, candied walnuts can be a substitute but will alter the flavor profile.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure the Gorgonzola cheese used is free from animal rennet.
- These pizzettes are best served fresh but can be reheated briefly in an oven to maintain crispness.
- Adjust the amount of honey drizzle to balance the sweetness according to taste.
