This sophisticated pasta dish beautifully balances the sweetness of ripe pears with the sharp, tangy kick of crumbled Gorgonzola. The sauce is enriched with chicken broth and thickened slightly with cornstarch to create a silky coating for the spaghetti. Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty depth, while a splash of lemon juice brightens the rich flavors. It is an excellent choice for a special weeknight dinner or a romantic evening meal. The combination of textures&# 226;ÂÂsoft pasta, tender fruit, creamy cheese, and crisp nutsâÂÂmakes every bite interesting. Serve immediately to enjoy the warmth and aroma of this comforting yet elegant Italian-inspired creation.
Pear & Gorgonzola Pasta With Toasted Pecans
Description
This sophisticated pasta dish beautifully balances the sweetness of ripe pears with the sharp, tangy kick of crumbled Gorgonzola. The sauce is enriched with chicken broth and thickened slightly with cornstarch to create a silky coating for the spaghetti. Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty depth, while a splash of lemon juice brightens the rich flavors. It is an excellent choice for a special weeknight dinner or a romantic evening meal. The combination of textures&# 226;ÂÂsoft pasta, tender fruit, creamy cheese, and crisp nutsâÂÂmakes every bite interesting. Serve immediately to enjoy the warmth and aroma of this comforting yet elegant Italian-inspired creation.Ingredients
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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While the pasta cooks, peel, core, and dice the soft-ripe pears into bite-sized pieces.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cornstarch, and lemon juice until smooth.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced pears and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
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Reduce heat to low. Pour the broth mixture into the skillet with the pears. Stir in the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time.
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Transfer to serving plates and top generously with toasted pecan halves. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1191.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 41.8g65%
- Saturated Fat 7.1g36%
- Cholesterol 40.8mg14%
- Sodium 241.9mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 142.3g48%
- Dietary Fiber 21.7g87%
- Sugars 42.6g
- Protein 35.9g72%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Pear Selection: Choose pears that are ripe but still firm enough to hold their shape when cooked. Bartlett, red Bartlett, or d'Anjou pears work best. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure near the stem.
Cheese Variations: Gorgonzola provides a rich, nutty flavor. For a milder taste, try Cambozola. For a sharper kick, use Danish Blue or American Blue cheese.
Dietary Adjustment: To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Toasting Pecans: To toast pecans, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Watch closely as they can burn quickly.
