Pear & Gorgonzola Salad Cups

DifficultyBeginner

Crispy phyllo cups are filled with juicy pear, tangy gorgonzola, crunchy walnuts, and a drizzle of honey. A delightful bite-sized appetizer that brings festive flavor and elegance to your holiday table.

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Yields24 Servings
Prep Time15 minsCook Time5 minsTotal Time20 mins
Makes 24 cups
 24 frozen mini phyllo shells (pre-baked, from freezer section)
 2 ripe but firm pears, finely diced (Bosc or Anjou work best)
 ½ cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese (or blue cheese)
 ¼ cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
 2 tbsp honey
 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional garnish)
 Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Prepare the phyllo cups
1
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Place phyllo shells on a baking sheet and warm for 3–5 minutes until crisp.

  3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Toast the walnuts
2
  1. Place walnuts on a dry skillet over medium heat.

  2. Toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant.

  3. Remove from heat and roughly chop.

Assemble the cups
3
  1. Spoon a few pieces of diced pear into each phyllo cup.

  2. Top with a sprinkle of gorgonzola.

  3. Add toasted walnuts on top for crunch.

Garnish & serve
4
  1. Drizzle each cup lightly with honey.

  2. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of black pepper.

  3. Serve immediately on a festive platter.

Serving Suggestions
5
  • Perfect as part of a Christmas appetizer spread or for a holiday cocktail party.

  • Pair with sparkling wine, Prosecco, or mulled cider.

  • Arrange on a platter with rosemary sprigs and pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.

Tips & Variations
6
  • Make-ahead: Dice pears and prep filling ahead, but assemble just before serving to avoid soggy cups.

  • Cheese swap: Substitute gorgonzola with goat cheese or brie for a milder option.

  • Nut-free option: Use toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of walnuts.

  • Extra festive: Add a few pomegranate seeds on top for color and crunch.

Ingredients

Makes 24 cups
 24 frozen mini phyllo shells (pre-baked, from freezer section)
 2 ripe but firm pears, finely diced (Bosc or Anjou work best)
 ½ cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese (or blue cheese)
 ¼ cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
 2 tbsp honey
 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional garnish)
 Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Pear & Gorgonzola Salad Cups
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