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This Pear & Caramelized Shallot Flatbread with Vegan Goat Cheese is an elegant plant-based appetizer or light meal that’s bursting with flavor. Crispy flatbread layered with creamy vegan goat cheese, golden caramelized shallots, and maple-glazed pear slices, finished with chili flakes, a thyme-infused drizzle, and balsamic glaze. Perfect for fall gatherings or a sophisticated weeknight dinner!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Snack, Vegan
Cuisine Fusion
Servings 4
Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Flatbread Base

  • 2 store-bought or homemade flatbreads gluten-free optional
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of salt

For the Toppings

  • ½ cup vegan goat cheese or cashew-based cheese alternative
  • 2 medium shallots thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for shallots
  • 1 large pear thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp vegan butter or olive oil
  • 1 tsp maple syrup
  • ¼ tsp chili flakes optional

For the Finish

  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • ½ tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tsp balsamic glaze
  • Fresh microgreens or arugula optional
  • Squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Flatbread Base

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Brush flatbreads with olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and bake for 5–7 minutes until lightly crisped.

Step 2: Caramelize the Shallots

  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
  • Add sliced shallots and cook slowly for 10–12 minutes until soft and golden. Stir occasionally.

Step 3: Caramelize the Pear Slices

  • In another pan, melt vegan butter and add pear slices.
  • Drizzle with maple syrup and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly caramelized. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Flatbreads

  • Spread vegan goat cheese evenly over the warm flatbread.
  • Layer with caramelized shallots and maple-glazed pear slices.
  • Sprinkle chili flakes for a subtle heat.

Step 5: Add Final Touches & Serve

  • In a small bowl, mix maple syrup with fresh thyme and drizzle over the flatbreads.
  • Finish with a balsamic glaze drizzle, a squeeze of fresh citrus, and microgreens or arugula for freshness and color.
  • Slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flatbread or pizza base.
  • Cheese Swap: Any creamy vegan cheese like cashew ricotta works well.
  • Extra Flavor: Add toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch and earthy depth.
  • Serving Idea: Pair with a glass of vegan white wine or sparkling water with citrus for an elegant touch.
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