This is an unusual dish which looks fantastic. It is a light starter ideally suited to a summers dinner party. It is very simple to prepare and ideal for preparing in advance. The only thing that needs to be done just before serving is the final slicing of the pears - if this is done too soon the pears will turn an unappetising brown. The quantities shown in this recipe serve 2 as a starter, just multiply the quantities as required to serve more people.

Ingredients

• 40g Stilton
• 40g Cream cheese
• 2 Ripe pears
• Juice of 1 Lemon
• 3 tsp Oil (preferably walnut oil if you have it)
• 1 tsp Fresh mint, chopped
• Salt and Freshly ground black pepper

Method

1. Mix the cheeses together to a smooth consistency.
2. Core the pears.
3. Brush the inside of the pears with a little of the lemon juice to prevent browning.
4. Pipe or spoon the cheese mixture into the cored pears.
5. Chill the pears until required.
6. Meanwhile prepare the dressing by placing the mint, lemon juice and oil into a jar with a tightly fitting screw-top lid. Shake well to mix.
7. Add salt and pepper to the dressing to taste.
8. When you are ready to serve, slice the pears thinly into rounds and arrange on the serving dishes.
   
9. Spoon the dressing over the top and serve immediately.