Party Perfect Recipe: Pear Endive Boats

So you've been roped into hosting a party, co-hosting a party, or if you were very sneaky, only bringing a dish for a party. The question is, what to bring? I love recipes that become their own serving dish and have a fun visual presence. This pear endive appetizer is respectful of seasonal produce and gives guests lots of textures and flavors to enjoy. Crunchy, creamy, sweet, and savory; after you bring this dish be prepared to be asked to host next year's party.

Pear Endive Boats

From Pacific Northwest Canned Pears Guide- makes 6 Servings

 

15 ounces (1 can)	Canned Pear Slices, drained and juice reserved
As needed	Non-stick cooking spray
1/2 cup	Goats’ cheese
1/2	Reduced fat cream cheese
1/3 cup	Pecans, chopped, toasted
1/3 cup	Chopped chives, divided
3/4 teaspoon	Ground black pepper
24 spears	Belgian endive, white and red

METHOD

1. Heat reserved pear juice in a small stainless saucepan and reduce to 3 tablespoons or until thick and syrupy.  Cool to room temperature.
2. Lightly spray baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.  Lay pear slices on pan.  Spray tops of pears to coat lightly.  Place pan under broiler; cook 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.  Turn each slice over and continue broiling until golden brown and slightly caramelized.  Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.  Dice pears; reserve.
3. In large mixing bowl or stand mixer with paddle attachment, blend goats’ cheese with cream cheese until smooth.  Blend in pear syrup.  Stir in pecans, 1/4 cup chives and pepper.  Gently stir in 3/4 of diced, caramelized pears.  Adjust seasonings.  Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours before using.
4. Before serving, spread endive spears out in an even layer on a baking sheet and spoon onto the tip of each spear. Place filled spears on a platter and place a small piece of reserved caramelized pear onto each filled spear.  Sprinkle with remaining chives to garnish.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (per serving)

Calories	213	Sodium	222mg	Vitamin A
Calories from Fat		Carbohydrate	21g	Vitamin C
Fat	12g	Dietary Fiber	10g	Calcium
Saturated Fat		Sugar		Potassium
Cholesterol	19mg	Protein	9g	Iron