I was thinking about what makes a good host/hostess after I shot these hors d’oeuvre for SPC. Working in the kitchen of my new home (where did I put the spreaders?), I thought a great hostess is organzied. It’s always so disappointing when you go to someone’s home and they are stuck slaving away in their kitchen. Or maybe what makes a gathering is a host/hostess who has thoughtfully orchestrated the evening with the guests in mind. Maybe it’s just amazing food? Good wine? Music? Conversation?
Then we went to dinner at our neighbors. The meal was simple–prepared with fresh ingredients–and our friends were at ease, warm and not at all stressed by preparation. There was no fussing over when to throw the steaks on, everything that could be prepared in advance was done and there was lots of time for enjoying each others company. When we left I thought to myself that it felt like I had spent the evening at home–eating homecooking, relaxing and laughing. So there it was. A great host/hostess makes you feel like you’re at home. And the best part? When you do get home, there is no clean up.
Pears with Goat Cheese and Cranberries
2 pears, cored and cut into two dozen slices
1/2 cup goat cheese
2 tablespoons pistachio pieces
2 tablespoons cranberries
1 tablespoon orange or lemon juice
Method
Core pears and cut into slices. Toss in orange or lemon juice to keep from browning. Spread cheese on widest part of slice and then shower cheese with cranberries and some pistachio pieces. Arrange on platter and serve.
The green and red combination of this hors d’oevre looks festive and they require very little prep. You could practically pull it together as people come up your walkway. It’s also not a heavy nibble that fills guests up before they even sit down at the table (I’m talking to you baked brie. Oh, how I love thee.) In other words, this munchie will help make your next event. Don’t forget the homecooking served with a healthy dose of hospitality.
Yum! I had done something similar with apples, but I bet it’s even better with pears (one of my favorite fruits). Thanks for this idea!
Hi! I was wondering how I should go about ‘tossing in’ lemon/orange juice on the pears? Should I just spoon some on the slices? Or do I have to soak them? Thanks! I love the look of these.
Hi Jo. Just spoon it over them to keep them from turning brown. No soaking necessary. Hope you enjoy the recipe! Thank you for reading.
This recipe looks simple and delicious! We are having a gathering of about 30 people or so, should we double or triple the recipe? Thank you.
The rule of thumb is that you figure each guest will eat about three so I would definitely triple the recipe. Let us know how it goes….30 people????? You’re brave and our new hero! Thanks for reading!
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Can’t wait to get to the store to get a pear. I have everything else! Looks delicious!
Delicious photos! Great appy idea.
Hi Millie! I can’t wait to hear how they came out! Let us know. Laura
Mmmm,….that is definitely going to be part of my lunch today, beside a bowl of soup. I can’t wait for lunch! Thanks for sharing.