Italian Wood-Grilled Pears with Honey and Pecorino

Introduction

Elevate your grilling game with these wood-grilled pears drizzled with golden honey and paired with nutty Pecorino cheese. Using the Arteflame grill, this recipe takes advantage of the even heat distribution on the flat cooktop to perfectly caramelize the pears without burning them, enhancing their natural sweetness. Finished with a drizzle of honey and delicate shavings of Pecorino, this dish is a simple yet luxurious treat, ideal as an appetizer or dessert.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 tbsp honey
• 4 oz Pecorino cheese, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans (optional for garnish)
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Prepare the Pears

1. Brush each pear half with melted butter.
2. Sprinkle with a light dusting of cinnamon if desired.

Step 3: Grill the Pears

1. Place pear halves cut-side down on the hotter inner section of the Arteflame flat cooktop.
2. Grill for about 5-8 minutes until the pears have caramelized and developed grill marks.
3. Flip the pears and move them slightly outward to a lower heat zone.
4. Grill for another 5-7 minutes until the pears are tender but still intact.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Transfer grilled pears onto a serving platter.
2. Top each pear with thin slices of Pecorino cheese.
3. Drizzle honey over the pears and cheese.
4. Garnish with fresh thyme and toasted pecans if using.

Tips

• Use ripe but firm pears to ensure they hold their shape while grilling.
• Brush the pears with butter rather than oil for a rich, caramelized texture.
• Move the pears to a lower heat zone after initial caramelization to prevent scorching.
• The Arteflame’s flat griddle cooktop ensures even caramelization without burning the pears.

Variations

1. Spiced Pears: Add a pinch of nutmeg and clove for a warm, spiced flavor.
2. Nutty Delight: Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts instead of pecans for an earthy crunch.
3. Balsamic Glaze: Swap the honey for a drizzle of aged balsamic reduction for a tangy-sweet contrast.
4. Blue Cheese Twist: Replace Pecorino with blue cheese for a bold, tangy combination.
5. Vanilla Pears: Brush the pears with vanilla-infused butter for a dessert-like finish.

Conclusion

Grilling pears on the Arteflame brings out their natural sweetness while achieving a beautiful caramelized finish. Paired with honey and Pecorino, this dish is an elegant yet simple addition to any meal. Whether served as an appetizer, side, or dessert, these wood-grilled pears are sure to impress.

Best Pairings

• A crisp Pinot Grigio or Viognier to complement the sweetness of the pears.
• Crusty Italian bread to scoop up the warm, melty Pecorino.
• Prosciutto for a salty contrast to balance the honey and cheese.